Pail-packed or vacuum-packed specimens?
Compare the advantages of these package types before you decide.
Pail Packed Specimens
Pail-packed specimens are packaged in 1- to 5-gallon pails, fully immersed in preservation fluid and sealed with leak-proof lids. Pails are easy to store, and they keep specimens fresh for months to years.
This package type is ideal for teachers who use specimens over multiple semesters. Simply reimmerse specimens until the next dissection period.
You can purchase additional Carolina’s Perfect Solution® holding fluid or Carosafe® (for formalin specimens) to add to pails.
Quantity discounts are available for all pail-packed specimens.
Vacuum-packed specimens
Vacuum-packed specimens are packaged in vacuum-sealed plastic barrier bags that are leak-proof and easy to open. We offer specimens single-packed (1 per bag) or bulk-packed (multiple specimens per bag).
If you plan to use specimens immediately or only need to store specimens for a few months, these package types are the ideal option. We recommend using vacuum-packed specimens within a year.
Once opened, the specimens can be stored for weeks. To retain moisture, keep tissues pliable, and prevent mold growth, we recommend using Carolina’s Wetting Solution between lab periods. After spraying specimens, place them in a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. For additional protection, you may choose to place this bag in a second resealable bag.
Vacuum-packed specimens are lighter and less expensive to ship than pail-packed specimens.
1 per Bag
Single-packed specimens are convenient and easy to distribute to students. Quickly set up for lab by handing out individually packaged specimens to each group. Keep in mind that quantity discounts are not available for single-packed specimens.
Bulk Bag
Bulk-bagged specimens are great for teachers who use multiple specimens at once. Consider buying in bulk when purchasing many specimens–quantity discounts are available. Keep in mind that quantity discounts are not available for the majority of single-packed specimens.
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