(Pasteur handle) INOCULATION NEEDLE, inox

An inoculation loop is a simple tool used to gather and transfer microscopic organisms from a culture or broth plate. The small loop removes a consistent amount of inoculum by using surface tension.

An inoculation needle is used for transfer and repicking of bacterial colonies and for the inoculation of Kligler Hajna media.

Both are used with an Pasteur handle.

Microloop Pasteur, Wire loop, Culture or Culture media inoculating, streaker.

The inoculation loop and inoculation needle are flame-sterilized before and after each use to eliminate cross-contamination between cultures. The loop and needle must be cooled after sterilization to avoid destroying the organisms.

In TB laboratory, the loop is used to take a sample of sputum and spread it on a slide for detecting the Koch's bacillus.

Possible alternative: single use plastic loop (see related articles below).

Some tests in bacteriology laboratories, require the use of a calibrated loop with a specific volume. This is not the case for all tests, for example smears on slides.

Avoid wire from a reel (loop more difficult to make - no precise volume).

Alternative: loop fastened to the handle, platinum model.

Some suppliers sell handles and loops/needles separately. Check for compatibility.