Every test begins with the collection of a sample.
Why Sample Collection Matters
Proper sample collection is critical to ensuring accurate and reliable microbiological results. Samples must be collected under aseptic conditions to prevent contamination, and Neogen devices are designed to support consistent, hygienic collection across a range of environments, including both large surface areas and hard-to-reach crevices. In addition, neutralizer medias play a key role by inactivating common sanitizers found in food production environments, helping preserve the integrity of target microorganisms during transport. To ensure dependable downstream results, these neutralizing buffers must also be compatible with the selected testing methods.
Collection, Preparation, and Transportation
From sample collection and preparation to transport, Neogen offers purpose‑built sampling devices designed to preserve sample integrity and support accurate, reliable microbial testing throughout the food safety testing process.
Collection
- Simple, effective sample collection solutions
- Swabs and sponges for a range of applications
- Aligned with government and third‑party regulatory protocols
Preparation
- Ready‑to‑use enrichment and dilution media for efficient sample preparation and microbial detection.
Transportation
- Choose from a wide range of durable, easy‑to‑open sample bags designed to protect sample integrity during transport to the final testing site (corporate or contract testing laboratories).
Sample Collection Brochure
From collection to transport to analysis — discover the products built to support your sampling workflow.
Swab-Samplers and Enviro Swabs
- Ideal for small and hard-to-reach sampling areas
- Available pre-hydrated with multiple buffer options
- Offered in various volumes for qualitative or quantitative testing
Sponge Samplers
- Designed for large surface area sampling
- Available dry or pre-hydrated for reliable collection
- Offered with multiple buffer options
Flip-Top Dilution Bottles
- Leak-resistant, lightweight PET plastic construction
- Pre-filled to eliminate media preparation and sterilization
- Hinged lid allows easy sample addition
- Available with multiple buffer options
Mini Flip-Top Dilution Vials
- Hinged lid allows easy sample addition
- Requires less sample material than standard bottles
- Available with multiple buffer options
Dilution and Enrichment Pouches
- Designed for paddle blender sample preparation
- Eliminates enrichment media preparation and sterilization
- Stable stand-up design for easy handling
- Wire tie closure supports simple sample addition
- Durable, puncture-resistant laminated construction
Wide Spectrum Neutralizer (WSN)
A neutralizer you can count on.
Enhance your environmental testing with the Neogen® Wide Spectrum Neutralizer.
Neogen’s proprietary Wide Spectrum Neutralizer (WSN) media is designed to support effective environmental monitoring across a broad range of sampling applications. Formulated to neutralize a wide variety of sanitizers while promoting microbial recovery, WSN helps improve confidence in environmental testing results.
Why Neogen for Sample Collection?
We cover everything from the moment the sample is collected to when the test is performed.
Compatibility across detection methods
- Choose from a range of sample collection tools designed to support different detection methods such as Petrifilm, MDS, Soleris, and Reveal and PCR workflows
- Compatibility varies by product, based on the specific neutralizer or broth used — refer to product specifications to match the right tool to your testing method
The Right Tool for Every Sample
- A device for every application— from environmental surfaces to finished product
- Designed to fit your sampling plan— multiple formats and ready-to-use media for surface areas and sample volumes your protocols require
- Skip the prep work— ready-to-use media, pre-filled with the neutralizers and enrichment broths your protocols rely on
Additional Resources
Sample Collection Catalog Listing
Scrub samplers, sponges, swabs, sample bags, dilution bottles, enrichment pouches, and more — all designed for compatibility with various Neogen® testing workflows.
Environmental Scrub Sampler
See how the Neogen® Environmental Scrub Sampler with Wide Spectrum Neutralizer delivers reliable sample collection with built-in sanitizer neutralization — designed for compatibility with Neogen® Petrifilm® Plates and the Molecular Detection System™.
Sample Collection Neutralizing Solution Checklist
Compare neutralizing solutions to understand their impact on recovery, efficacy, and test accuracy—helping you select the right approach for your sampling program.
Environmental Monitoring Handbook 2.0
Developed with Cornell University and global experts, the 2nd Edition provides practical guidance on environmental sampling, program design, and continuous improvement.
Neutralizing Solution Comparison
Compare neutralizing solutions side by side to identify the best fit for your program. Explore key features, compatibility, and application benefits to support confident sampling decisions.