Swabs are sterilised by radiation. In AMIES media, the glycerophosphate is replaced by an inorganic phosphate, and the methylene blue by pharmacological charcoal. Calcium and magnesium are also added, thus maintaining the permeability of the bacterial cell. This media assures the viability of organisms such as: Streptococcus, Salmonella, Escherichia coli, etc. Expiry date: 30 months after sterilisation date.