DIN 58940-8 / MIC

Determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of antimicrobial agents using a method based on DIN 58940-8.

Overview

DIN 58940-8 describes a method for determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of antimicrobial agents.

The method is primarily used to assess the susceptibility of bacterial pathogens to antimicrobial drugs. For specific projects, the testing principle can also be adapted to other antimicrobial agents or bacterial test strains.

The MIC is the lowest concentration of an antimicrobial agent at which no visible microbial growth is detected under defined test conditions. Results are evaluated in relation to the tested concentrations.

Testing can be adapted for the specific project, depending on the testing objective, sample type, sample size, contact time or selected test strains.

Typical applications

Antimicrobial agent assessment

Determination of the lowest concentration of an antimicrobial agent that inhibits microbial growth.

Susceptibility testing

Assessment of the susceptibility of selected microorganisms to antimicrobial substances.

Product development

Comparison of different antimicrobial agents, concentrations or formulations during product development.

Frequently asked questions

What do MIC and MHK mean?

MIC stands for minimum inhibitory concentration. MHK is the corresponding German abbreviation (minimale Hemmkonzentration). It is the lowest concentration of an antimicrobial agent at which no visible growth of the test organism is detected under defined conditions.

Which antimicrobial agents is DIN 58940-8 suitable for?

Testing based on DIN 58940-8 is used to assess the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial drugs. For biocides or other antimicrobial substances, the testing principle can be applied in an adapted test design following a technical assessment of its suitability.

Does the MIC demonstrate a killing effect?

No. The MIC describes inhibition of visible growth and does not, by itself, demonstrate a killing effect. Bactericidal activity must be assessed separately, for example by determining the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC).

Can testing be carried out with customer-specific test strains?

Depending on the testing objective, antimicrobial agent and test organism, the suitability of customer-specific test strains or adapted concentration ranges can be assessed.