Potato dextrose agar (PDA) is a versatile medium employed for the cultivation and quantification of yeast and molds, making it suitable for various applications. PDA is well-suited for the growth of clinically significant yeast and molds and is endorsed by reputable organizations such as APHA and the FDA for conducting plate counts of these microorganisms in the examination of food and dairy products.
Furthermore, PDA serves as a valuable tool for stimulating sporulation, maintaining stock cultures of specific dermatophytes, and facilitating the differentiation of distinct dermatophyte varieties based on their pigment production. Its wide-ranging utility in microbiology and mycology makes it an essential component in laboratories conducting research and quality assessments related to yeast, molds, and fungal organisms.