Effect of air drying on bacterial viability: A multiparameter viability assessment

► Bacteria are subjected to drying in the presence or absence of supplements. ► Viability and fitness are assessed using a multiparameter viability assay. ► Presence of magnesium chloride during desiccation greatly reduces viability. ► Presence of extracellular polysaccharides during desiccation increases viability. ► Fluorescent assays offer greater resolution than plate counting for moderate stress.