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, return them to the original bag and seal using binder clips or rubber bands. Place this bag in a second resealable bag for additional protection.
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-bagged specimens are great for teachers who use multiple specimens at once. Consider buying in bulk when purchasing many specimens–quantity discounts are available.
6 Comments
Hello, My name is Gabriela Gonzalez- We are about to start dissection in our Anatomy class. We have the Single packed Vacuum Feline. We got gallon of Perfect solution to apply to our felines once we are done with lab. Do we have to dilute the Perfect Solution in order to leave our felines ready for next use? or we do not have to dilute the solution? Thank you for your time.
This solution is ready to use, and no dilution is necessary for use.
Hello, I do have another question. Can pregnant women be exposed around the Perfect Solution? ok to handle with gloves, and lab coat, googles? minimize exposure
In short, it appears that exposure to Carolina’s Perfect Solution® specimens should not pose a significant risk to an expectant mother or her unborn child. If a pregnant woman observes standard safety procedures when dissecting Carolina’s Perfect Solution® specimens, i.e., wears gloves, apron, and splash goggles and works in a well-ventilated area, there appears to be limited cause for concern.
That being said, pregnancy is such a special circumstance that we always advise a pregnant woman to discuss the matter with her physician, and to think seriously about whether or not she wants to expose herself unnecessarily to any chemical, regardless of its apparent safety. We also encourage schools to undertake this same careful approach when considering whether or not to allow or require pregnant staff or students to participate in dissection activities.
For more information regarding Pregnancy and Dissection of Carolina Perfect Solution Specimens, please see the linked article below:
https://www.carolina.com/teacher-resources/Interactive/pregnancy-and-dissection-of-carolina-perfect-solution-specimins/tr11088.tr?_ga=2.242799170.1911435358.1726600579-1910924288.1719501586
Hello, once opened, how long can cats be kept? Is there any maintenance to extend lifespan?
Hello, We suggest you spray your cats liberally with Carolina’s Wetting Solution or another humectant after every lab period. Then put them back in the original bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal them up. Between lab sessions, store the cats at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Prior to beginning the next dissection, spray them again. Repeat the process after and before each dissection period. Do not wash the cats with water.