This medium is for the growth of fastidious anaerobes, particularly Bacteroides spp. Fastidious anaerobe broth is also suitable for anaerobic blood culture.
The peptone and yeast extract provides the required carbon, nitrogen and vitamins. Haemin, vitamin k and L-cysteine HCl are growth factors required by some anaerobes. Sodium thioglycollate and L-cysteine HCl reduce the Eh of the medium and the agar helps maintain the Eh. Resazurin is a redox indicator and sodium chloride maintains the osmotic balance.
NB: For best results it is recommended that the medium be heated in a boiling water bath, with the cap loosened, and then allowed to cool, with the cap tightened, immediately before use. The cap must be replaced on the container immediately after inoculation.