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Students help the International Space Program control an outbreak of pathogenic bacteria affecting space food in transit to Mars. They do so by deploying essential molecular biology techniques, such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction), restriction digest, and gel electrophoresis. This lab depicts real-world biotechnology applications in public health and surveillance but does not require handling of potentially harmful or pathogenic biological samples. Includes enough materials for 8 lab groups.

Product Details
Identify the source of pathogenic bacteria in space food bound for Mars!

Students help the International Space Program control an outbreak of pathogenic bacteria affecting space food in transit to Mars. They do so by deploying essential molecular biology techniques, such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction), restriction digest, and gel electrophoresis. This lab depicts real-world biotechnology applications in public health and surveillance. It uses the same scientific principles and experimental techniques as real-world food safety investigations but does not require handling of potentially harmful or pathogenic biological samples. None of the materials provided in the Food Safety Lab kit pose a health or food safety hazard.

Product Features

• Kit provides enough materials for 8 lab groups
• Online teacher guide, student guide, and additional resources are available for downloading
• Can be completed in 120 minutes; can be split over 2 or 3 class periods

Note: The reagents in this lab require freezer storage and are stable for 12 months when stored in the freezer.