This biocide-free cellulose sponge is pre-hydrated with Neutralizing Buffer diluent for convenient sample collection. The biocide-free cellulose sponge does not interfere with microorganism viability within 48 hours of refrigeration for Salmonella and E. coli and 72 hours for Listeria. The cellulose material is durable, absorbent and effectively holds and releases the sample to minimize excess dripping. The sponge also comes with a 6 x 11 inch Neogen® Sample Bag that will accommodate 30 oz/0.89 L capacity to hold the sponge for safe, convenient transportation to the lab. The bag is double laminated to ensure strength, puncture resistance, and durability when blending or transporting. Wire ties ensure a secure closure and a blue top and large white write-on area helps identify the bag. The writable area is ideal for documenting data, date, time of collection, and other information for accuracy, efficiency and easy identification. Both the sample bag and sponge are decontaminated through gamma irradiation to maintain shelf life. This product is made in the USA with globally sourced materials. The Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) approach is the most widely accepted food safety management protocol worldwide. Sample collection products from Neogen® are a crucial part of this approach to identify potential food-borne hazards and pinpoint where they reside. Portability, stable enrichment media, and easy-to-handle swabs and sponges are designed to test for a wide variety of potential hazards and deliver exceptionally accurate results. They are engineered to safely gather, hold, and secure contents from the collection site to the lab without leaking or compromising the sample. The use of Neutralizing Buffer is advised for surface testing for the presence of microorganisms that may occur on dairy and food equipment disinfected with chlorine or quaternary ammonium compounds. It is capable of inactivating the bactericidal and bacteriostatic effect of chlorine and quaternary ammonium composites. Neutralizing these chemicals is crucial in accurately detecting the presence of potentially harmful microorganisms. Using Neutralizing Buffer in the microbiological examination of surfaces in standard methods to test dairy products and food.