3M™ Petrifilm™ Rapid Yeast and Mold Count Plate Method for the Enumeration of Yeast and Mold on Selected Surfaces:

Cari K Lingle1, April J Schumacher1, Micki L Rosauer1

  • 13M Company, Food Safety Department, St. Paul, MN 55144-1000, USA.

Abstract

Insights

The 3M Petrifilm Rapid Yeast and Mold (RYM) Plate effectively enumerates yeast and mold on various surfaces. This method provides accurate results within 48-60 hours, simplifying laboratory workflows.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Food Safety
  • Environmental Monitoring

Background:

  • The 3M™ Petrifilm™ Rapid Yeast and Mold (RYM) Count Plate is designed for rapid enumeration of yeast and mold.
  • It contains essential nutrients, antibiotics, a gelling agent, and an indicator system for efficient detection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the performance of the 3M Petrifilm RYM Plate for yeast and mold enumeration.
  • The study focused on matrix extension for stainless steel, sealed concrete, and rubber surfaces.

Main Methods:

  • A paired matrix study compared the 3M Petrifilm RYM Plate against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM) Ch. 18 method.
  • Enumeration of yeast and mold was performed on stainless steel, sealed concrete, and rubber environmental surfaces.

Main Results:

  • The 3M Petrifilm RYM Plate demonstrated equivalent performance to the reference method.
  • No statistically significant differences were observed in yeast and mold enumeration across the three evaluated matrixes.

Conclusions:

  • The 3M Petrifilm RYM Plate is a validated and effective method for enumerating yeast and mold on stainless steel, sealed concrete, and rubber surfaces.
  • The method offers accurate results within 48-60 hours with a simplified workflow and reduced incubator space requirements.