Abstract: The present invention is directed to an inoculation device including an easily manipulated handle together with microorganisms associated with a device for transferring and storing for extending periods stabilized, known microorganisms. This device is particularly useful in testing standard laboratory culture media. This device is easily produced by associating known microorganisms, either alone or together with a binding agent and other biologically acceptable additives and preservatives, with the sample transfer portion of the inoculation device. When substantially all of the water is removed from an inoculation device, including known microorganisms, the microbial containing device is storable for extended periods under sterile, dry conditions substantially free of water.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods for preserving, transporting, storing, re-hydrating and delivering viable micro-organisms. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a kit and method for preserving and storing dried, microbiological organisms and for re-hydrating and delivering specific and reproducible numbers of viable organisms therefrom. The kit and method of the present invention provides the capability to deliver a known quantity of rehydrated micro-organisms as a single, total dose of cells without the inaccuracies and safety hazards associated with standard needle, syringe or pipette transfer systems. The kit includes first and second vial and cap combinations, the first carrying the dried organisms in a dry, biologically inert atmosphere, the second carrying a pre-measured quantity of re-hydrating fluid. A quantitative number of selected microbiological organisms are dried under mild conditions, i.e.