What type of growth medium is used for surface sampling in Active (Viable) Air Sampling?

The correct choice utilizes Trypticase Soy Agar (TSA) supplemented with lecithin and polysorbate 80 for surface sampling in active (viable) air sampling due to its suitability in capturing a wide range of microorganisms including bacteria and fungi. TSA provides nutrients that support bacterial growth, while lecithin and polysorbate 80 serve a critical function in neutralizing agents that may be present in the environment which could inhibit microbial growth.

When surface sampling is performed, it is essential to use a medium that not only supports the growth of potential contaminants but also ensures that the sampling process is effective in recovering viable microorganisms. The combination of TSA with these additives helps in achieving that goal.

Other media, while useful in specific contexts, are not optimal for general surface sampling in the same way. For instance, Rogosa agar is tailored for isolating lactobacilli and may not effectively capture a diverse range of surface organisms. XLD agar is primarily used for the differentiation of enteric Gram-negative bacteria, and MacConkey agar is selective for Gram-negative organisms, particularly those that can ferment lactose, making them less versatile for general viable air sampling purposes. Therefore, the selection of TSA with lecithin and polysorbate