This indicator changes color from blue to white when there is no oxygen present in the jar. If there is growth on the incubated plates, then the microbes are considered facultative anaerobes. If there is no evidence of growth, the microbes are considered strict anaerobes. If any strict anaerobes are detected, an immediate investigation should be conducted. In addition to monitoring bac- terial levels, a sound environmental monitoring program should also monitor aseptic environments for mold contamination.
Molds grow preferentially at lower temperatures than do most bacteria.
When monitoring controlled areas for mold contamination, duplicate air and surface samples are taken. The mold growth is then further isolated and inspected microscopically. Molds are usually easily identified using the observed microscopic morphological characteristics and maturity rates. Mold contamination exceeding set parameters should be investigated immediately. In summary, a strong environmental monitoring program is essential to keep production and development on schedule.