Microwave sterilized media supports better microbial growth than autoclaved media

Microwave treated media were compared with media sterilized through conventionalautoclaving in terms of their ability to support microbial growth, spore germination, andrevival of lyophilized bacterial cultures. Microwave sterilized media were found to supportbetter microbial growth. Both bacteria and yeast were able to achieve higher cell density at afaster growth rate in microwaved media. Microwave treatment was found to be suitable formedia of varying compositions. Better retention of nutrient quality in microwave treatedgrowth media due to shorter heat exposure seems to be the major reason for better microbialgrowth in it. Microwave sterilization can prove an attractive alternative of conventionalautoclaving, especially when media are needed for immediate use, and also when highbiomass yield is of particular interest.