Urine Sample Collection Tubes Relaunched for Microbial Diagnostics

A next-generation urine sample collection tube contains an innovative additive that effectively stabilizes bacterial count for up to 48 hours at room temperature, enabling more reliable clinical diagnosis and research.

The medical threshold for diagnosing a urinary tract infection (UTI) is ≥105 CFU/mL. Accurate determination of bacteria count at or very near urine sampling is critical for correct diagnosis. However, rapid bacterial growth in urine samples can lead to false positive results, which would lead to patients taking antibiotics unnecessarily.


The new VACUETTE Urine CCM tube from Greiner Bio-One International GmbH (Kremsmünster, Austria) was introduced in 2014 and is now being relaunched as particularly suitable for microbiological diagnostics and research. The tube contains a highly soluble powder that quickly impedes bacterial growth upon simple thorough mixing with urine sample via only a few inversions of the tube. The sample remains stable with no need for refrigeration – up to 48 hours when stored at 20–25 °C.

Another advantage of the VACUETTE Urine CCM tube is its easy-to-open safety cap that allows for hygienic opening and working conditions – without risk of splashes as may occur with standard rubber stoppers. Plus, the tube is shatterproof and made from highly transparent PET plastic.

A large number of obligatory and optional pathogenic urogenital bacteria can be stabilized in the VACUETTE Urine CCM tube for reliable detection up to 48 hours. UTIs are most commonly caused by Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus spp. In addition to these two bacteria, internal GBO studies have verified the stabilization of Salmonella enteritidis, Candida albicans, and Enterococcus faecalis, and that even certain sensitive microorganisms, such as Streptococcus spp., are stabilized sufficiently.

Related Links:
Greiner Bio-One International GmbH