Standard FBS

To simulate in vivo conditions for in vitro cell culture, serum is often added to the cell culture medium. Serum serves as a source of growth factors, lipids, hormones, and minerals for the cells. Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is particularly rich in growth factors and contains few antibodies that could interfere with cell culture. This unique composition makes FBS one of the most important supplements for cell proliferation and is considered the gold standard in in vitro cell culture.

FBS is naturally obtained as a byproduct of the meat and dairy industries. We source our FBS from various countries where it is produced under strict quality controls.

Our fetal calf serum is extensively tested and is guaranteed to be free of: mycoplasmas, viruses (BVDV, BHDV1, PI-3), fungi, and bacteria, and is suitable for the cultivation of a wide variety of highly demanding cell lines, including primary cells, stem cells, mesenchymal cells, and epithelial cells.

FAQs

From which countries of origin does Bio&SELL offer standard FBS?

Bio&SELL offers standard FBS from the United States (FBS US Origin), Australia (FBS Australia Origin), New Zealand (FBS New Zealand Origin), and South America (FBS South America Origin). The FBS undergoes strict quality controls in all countries of origin. The various origins allow for a targeted selection to comply with applicable import regulations.

When is our FBS US Origin right for you?

The import (or re-import) of FBS from South America or serum from South Africa into the U.S. is not permitted. This also applies to derivatives (biopharmaceuticals, tissue engineering products, cell cultures and cell lines containing FBS) that are derived from or manufactured using South American FBS. The export of derivatives produced using FBS from the U.S. (FBS US Origin) or from Australia and New Zealand is permitted. The direct re-import of U.S. serum from, for example, the EU is often very difficult. U.S. import authorities deny entry into the U.S. for reasons that are not always apparent and require extensive documentation. If importing into the U.S. is an option for you, as indicated above, please contact the relevant customs authority, as we cannot provide binding legal advice. However, we can obtain preliminary information from the relevant authorities on your behalf.

What quality controls does FBS undergo?

We source our fetal bovine serum (FBS) from controlled sources. For quality assurance, batch-specific certificates of analysis (CoA), certificates of origin (CoO), and information on virus testing are available. In addition, the FBS is sterile-filtered.

Is Bio&SELL’s FBS free of contamination?

Our FBS is free of detectable mycoplasmas, certain viruses (BVDV, BHDV1, and PI-3), fungi, and bacteria. The corresponding test reports are available upon request.

What is the difference between FBS from the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and South America?

The main differences lie in the geographic origin as well as the associated regulatory requirements and import regulations. Biological properties may also vary between batches. The selection should therefore be based on the intended application and the required documentation.

Does FBS need to be heat-inactivated before use?

Heat inactivation is not generally required. It may be useful for certain applications, such as when complement proteins influence experimental results. Since the treatment can also alter growth-promoting components, its necessity should be evaluated for the specific cell culture.

What concentration of FBS is recommended in cell culture medium?

Many established cell lines are cultured with an FBS concentration of 5 - 10%. However, the optimal concentration depends on the cell type, the basal medium used, and the experimental requirements.

What certifications do I need for routine research with fetal calf serum?

✔ CoA (Certificate of Analysis)
✔ CoO (Certificate of Origin)
✔ Virus-Tests
✔ BSE/TSE statement - optional

All of the above certificates are available on request: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.