How We Test Om Spores
At Om Spores, we have gone to great lengths to find the best spore suppliers across the globe and we take quality control seriously. Every single batch is examined under the microscope to ensure every syringe is filled with plenty of clean, healthy spores that meet our high standards before they’re ever made available to you.
No biological product can ever be 100% sterile, but by doing these extra checks, we are confident you will receive clean, reliable spores for your microscopy research.
What Should a Spore Syringe Look Like?
The Liquid in a spore syringe should be clear and transparent; however, it may look slightly tinted by any spore clouds present. Spores are microscopic and won’t always be visible to the naked eye, so if you can’t see them, don’t worry. Sometimes spores can be seen clumping together and can appear as specks, wisps, or clouds, which is normal; spores will redistribute when gently shaken up
Common Myths About Spore Syringes & Contamination
There’s a lot of confusion out there about spores. Here are a few common myths we have come across, and the reality behind them.
Myth: Spore syringes are guaranteed to be 100% sterile.
Fact: Although all spore syringes are made in clean lab environments and handled with care, it is not scientifically possible to guarantee 100% sterility. Spores are natural, living things, and there’s always a tiny chance of microscopic contamination, even when everything’s done properly.
We check every batch under the microscope before anything goes out. If there’s ever a problem, get in contact.
Myth: I should be able to see spores in the syringe
Fact: Spores are microscopic, so many strains won’t be visible to the naked eye. Some naturally clump together and become visible, while others stay completely suspended and invisible. Both are normal.
Myth: I should sterilise my needle before use
Fact: Nope. All needles come pre-sterilised. Only flame-sterilise if you’re reusing the syringe.
How to Prevent Contamination When Using a Spore Syringe
Even with the cleanest spore syringe, contamination can be introduced during use if proper precautions aren’t taken. Follow these steps to keep everything sterile:
- Work in a clean space – Use a still air box or a laminar flow hood if possible.
- Don’t heat the needle before first use – It is already pre-sterilised.
- Keep everything wiped down – Use 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean gloves, work surfaces, and tools.
- Reusing syringes? – Don’t remove the needle. Just replace the cap and sterilise the needle before using it again.
- Only flame-sterilise if reusing – If you need to reuse the syringe, sterilise the needle by heating it until red-hot, then let it cool before use.
Following these steps minimises the risk of contamination and keeps your samples in the best possible condition.
How to Handle & Store Your Spore Syringe Correctly
- Storage – Ideally, store in the fridge, but spores can be kept in a cool, dark place.
- Handling – Avoid touching the needle, and always use clean gloves or sanitised hands.
- Shelf life – Best used within 6 months, but spores can remain viable for years with proper storage.