How should samples be packaged for shipment?
All cultures should be packaged with triple containment, whether or not you have reason to suspect they are pathogenic. Triple containment can be a plate or culture tube, within a sealed bag, placed within another bag containing absorbent material. This should then be placed within a sturdy box or container that will not be crushed during shipping. Cushioning material should be used in the package to prevent sample damage in shipment. Using ice packs or blue ice should is not recommended, as the samples may freeze, disturbing the integrity of the organism to be identified. There are also many commercially available shipping packages available for live cultures. Please call Technical Support if you have any questions.