NCIMB news 15 July 2025 Seventy-five years ago, in July 1950, the creation of a National Collection of Industrial Bacteria was announced in Nature. The collection took over the non-pathogenic cultures held by the UK’s National Collection of Type Cultures, and was reported to hold some 350 types. This new collection was expected to increase considerably as the collection became more representative of the needs of industry. The Collection of Industrial Bacteria later merged with the National Collections of Marine, and then Food Bacteria to create the collection that NCIMB …
How to search the NCIMB collection for strains from species in the EFSA QPS list
by Julie MacKinnon, Microbiome Services Manager There is a growing interest in the use of microorganisms within the food chain, and this can be attributed to a number of different factors. For example, knowledge and understanding of the gut microbiome and its role in human health has led to an interest in fermented foods and supplements containing bacteria associated with gut health. There is also an interest in microorganisms as a more environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides used in agriculture, and for the production of food additives such as …
Culture collection orders and delivery in December
As the temperature drops and the nights draw in, we are looking forward to a winter break! Here’s what you need to know if you are planning on ordering any cultures from us over the festive period. Holiday closing dates NCIMB will close for the holidays on 24 Dec 2024, and re-open for business on 3 Jan 2025: Shipping of orders in December If you are ordering to a UK address, the last date for placing an order for delivery before Christmas is Thurs 19 Dec. We cannot guarantee that …
The power of microbes in food and feed
NCIMB’s Chief executive Dr Edward Green is heading to Teeside on Wednesday 1 May for the Pioneer Presents event: Planetary Health – Sustainable Food Systems of the Future. More sustainable food systems are urgently required if we are to feed the growing global population whilst effectively tackling climate change, preserving biodiversity and safeguarding the environment. The event will bring together experts in this area with sessions on: Dr Edward Green will presenting on the topic of the power of microbes in food and feed. Microorganisms have long played a vital …
Desulfovibrio desulfuricans – friend or foe?
by Connor Trottor, PIPS Intern The National Collection of Industrial, Food and Marine Bacteria includes thousands of industrial strains – but what exactly is an “industrial” strain? The collection includes strains with biotechnological potential, as well strains studied because of the problems they can cause industry. Some strains fall into both categories. Desulfovibrio desulfuricans, may be better known for its role in oilfield souring, microbiologically influenced corrosion and as a producer of toxic gas, but in this blog, PIPS intern Connor Trotter considers some of the positive applications it could …
NCIMB material transfer agreement update
NCIMB Ltd is updating the material transfer agreement used when purchasing strains from the National Collection of Industrial, Food and Marine Bacteria. The change will take effect from 1 Feb 2024. We are also updating the processes in place to ensure our customers are aware of the change. From 1 February customers will need to sign and return a copy of a one page agreement before orders are dispatched. A copy of the agreement can be downloaded here. NCIMB’s standard terms of supply for cultures are for non-commercial use such …