BD launches plastic option for Bactec PEDS Plus/F media

BD has introduced a new plastic version of its Bactec PEDS Plus/F blood culture bottle, which was previously only available in glass.

The product is designed for the qualitative culture and recovery of aerobic microorganisms from paediatric and non-paediatric blood specimens less than 5 mL in volume. This latest addition to the range is optimised for greater customer convenience.

Because of the plastic bottle, this option is smaller and lighter than the glass option, allowing for easier and safer handling during collection, transportation and disposal.

The new product is being introduced in the US, where it has already received approval from the Food and Drug Administration.

David Hickey, vice-president and general manager of microbiology diagnostics systems for BD's life sciences business, said: "The availability of BD's fourth media culture bottle in plastic demonstrates our ongoing commitment to delivering total solutions that are focused on optimising clinical outcomes and laboratory efficiencies."

The new option strengthens the overall Bactec blood culture platform, which has been shown to improve bacterial recovery, facilitating changes in antibiotic treatment to aid antibiotic stewardship.