A material recommended for the culture of a wide variety of pathogenic microorganisms. These materials are usually prepared by adding 5 – 10% blood. Blood Agar Base contains high nutritional value ingredients, which provide vitamins, carbohydrates and other organic elements. Unseal the vial with gloves in an absolutely clean area (Laminar flow). Place the vial in boiling water for 20 – 25 minutes (Caution: the cap must be completely loose). When the agar is fully liquefied, lower the temperature to 45 – 47 °C. Pour 5 – 10 ml of horse or sheep blood and mix with slow movements. Distribute the material into 6 or 9 cm Petri dishes.