In 1970, API completely revolutionized the field of bacteriology.

The API range introduced a standardized, miniaturized version of existing techniques, which up until then were complicated to perform and difficult to read.

With API, bacterial identification became simple, rapid and reliable.


API 20 E® was the first identification system to be developed, combining a strip of biochemical tests and a database. The range was rapidly expanded, in collaboration with loading international reference centres in the USA, Japan, Australia and Europe, …


The innovative API concept also involved the development of a calculation method, known as numerical identification. This method in turn led to the design of software programs, making identification easier and more accurate.