BenchStable™ DMEM/F12, 500 mL - FAQs

We recommended supplementing BenchStable media with at least 10% FBS for best results. If your culture method calls for greater than 10% FBS supplementation using our other existing media, we recommend that you use the same concentration with BenchStable media.

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We recommend supplementing BenchStable media with at least 10% FBS for best results. We have run tests on limited cell types using 5% FBS concentration and have not observed compromised performance. Please contact Tech Support at techsupport@thermofisher.com to ensure that your specific application allows for 5% serum supplementation.

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We have tested our BenchStable media for growth and morphology on the following cell lines: A549, CHO-K1, HEK293, HeLa, HL-60, Jurkat, MCF7, MDA-MB-231, Neuro2A, SH-SY5Y, and THP-1.

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At this time, we do not offer BenchStable media without phenol red.

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The shelf life of BenchStable media is unchanged when stored cold (2-4 degrees C) or ambient (15-30 degrees C).

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We recommend storing BenchStable media under ambient conditions (15-30 degrees C), protected from light. BenchStable media can alternatively be stored at 2-8 degrees C.

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Yes, the box provided with our BenchStable media has properties that offer some resistance to moisture generated in a refrigerator environment.

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Yes, BenchStable media should be stable for use if received partially or completely frozen.

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Our in-house data, using refrigerated BenchStable media exposed to fluorescent light (https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/life-science/cell-culture/mammalian-cell-culture/classical-media/benchstable-cell-culture-media.html#results), illustrates the necessity of having light protection. While we have not tested other light spectrums; we recommend storing BenchStable media protected from any light exposure.

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We have observed rapid degradation of several components within days from exposure of BenchStable media to common fluorescent light. We have also observed decreased cell growth using light-exposed media.

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BenchStable media can be used for up to 2-4 weeks after supplementation with serum. There are no formal studies to support this, but it is the rule of thumb used by our scientists.

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To reduce the chances of contamination and the impact of pH drift, we recommend using BenchStable media within 2-4 weeks after the bottle has been opened.

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Complete BenchStable media (for example, media supplemented with 10% FBS) should be stored at 4 degrees C.

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BenchStable media have a 12 month shelf life, consistent with our standard basal media offerings.

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