I’ve been using Potato Dextrose Agar in California for a couple of years now, mostly in a teaching context and occasionally for hobby mycology. One thing I’ve started wondering is whether there’s much variation in quality between suppliers within the state.

Even when I order the same type (e.g., powdered PDA), I’ve noticed some inconsistencies—one batch might solidify quickly, another might feel softer or slightly uneven. The fungal growth is usually fine, but the differences make me think something is off.

For those of you who have ordered PDA within California, have you noticed differences in consistency or reliability depending on where you source it? Or is this just normal batch variation?

I’m not trying to make a case for or against any company, but I am curious whether these minor fluctuations are expected, or if they indicate something I should be concerned about—like improper storage or aging of the medium before delivery.
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