How We Test ōM Scientific
At ōM Scientific, we have gone to great lengths to find the best spore suppliers across the globe, and we take quality control seriously. Every single batch is examined under a microscope to ensure that each syringe is filled with a generous amount of clean, healthy spores that meet our high standards before it is made available to you. The process we follow can be found in our Microscopy Guide.
No biological product can ever be 100% sterile, but by doing these extra checks, we are confident you will receive clean, reliable spores for your microscopy research.
What Should a Spore Syringe Look Like?
The Liquid in a spore syringe should be clear and transparent; however, it may look slightly tinted by any spore clouds present. Spores are microscopic and won’t always be visible to the naked eye, so if you can’t see them, don’t worry. Sometimes spores can be seen clumping together and can appear as specks, wisps, or clouds, which is normal; spores will redistribute when gently shaken up
How to Prevent Contamination When Using a Spore Syringe
Even with the cleanest spore syringe, contamination can be introduced during use if proper precautions aren’t taken. Follow these steps to keep everything sterile:
- Work in a clean space – Use a still air box or a laminar flow hood if possible.
- Don’t heat the needle before first use – It is already pre-sterilised.
- Keep everything wiped down – Use 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean gloves, work surfaces, and tools.
- Reusing syringes? – Don’t remove the needle. Just replace the cap and sterilise the needle before using it again.
- Only flame-sterilise if reusing – If you need to reuse the syringe, sterilise the needle by heating it until red-hot, then let it cool before use.
Follow our Microscopy Guide to minimise the risk of contamination.
How to Handle & Store Your Spore Syringe Correctly
- Storage – Ideally, store in the fridge, but spores can be kept in a cool, dark place.
- Handling – Avoid touching the needle, and always use clean gloves or sanitised hands.
- Shelf life – Best used within 6 months, but spores can remain viable for years with proper storage.