Cell Freezing Media Market (2026 - 2033) Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (DMSO, Glycerol), By Type (Slow Freezing, Vitrification), By Cell Culture Type (2D Cell Culture, 3D Cell Culture), By Application, By End Use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts

Cell Freezing Media Market Summary

The global cell freezing media market size was estimated at USD 1.23 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 2.37 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 9.0% from 2026 to 2033. The market's growth can be attributed to increasing adoption of cell freezing media as an alternative to in-house freezing preparations and the benefits of ready-to-use cryo-preservative media over conventional freezing techniques. 

Moreover, rising demand for effective freezing media across a wide range of end-users and various new products launched by key market players are anticipated to fuel market growth.

Increasing biobanking activities

The rapid expansion of biobanking activities is a major growth driver for the global cell freezing media market. Biobanks are essential for storing and preserving biological specimens such as human cells, tissues, and biofluids for biomedical research, diagnostics, and therapeutic development. Advanced cryopreservation solutions that guarantee long-term stability and functionality are becoming more necessary due to the growing demand for high-quality, viable samples in genomic research, disease modeling, and biomarker discovery. This demand is further fueled by the rise of precision and personalized medicine, as scientists need diverse, well-preserved samples to study genetic variations and customize treatments. To meet these demands, especially for samples meant for clinical applications, biobanks are implementing freezing media that are xeno-free, serum-free, and compliant with regulations.

Recent Funding Rounds in Biobanking

Source: Secondary Research, Grand View Research

Public and private investments are accelerating biobanking infrastructure development worldwide, with governments, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies building large-scale repositories to support global research collaborations. For instance, in July 2024, UK Biobank received USD 21.2 million in combined funding from Amazon Web Services and the UK government to advance diagnostics and treatments for Parkinson’s, dementia, and cancer. With the expansion of biobanks in both size and complexity, their capacity to deal with a wide range of specimens is increased, and thus, the requirement for reliable, high-quality freezing media that can be scaled up accordingly is crucial to secure sample integrity and facilitate future biomedical research. The growing focus on uniform, high-quality cryopreservation has made cell freezing media an indispensable facilitator of the changing biobanking ecosystem.

Advancements in cryopreservation technology

The cell freezing media industry is advancing rapidly, driven by innovations in cryopreservation technologies that significantly improve cell viability and functionality after thawing. Modern freezing media utilize optimized, low-toxicity cryoprotective agents and cell type-specific formulations to better preserve delicate structures and functions, especially for applications in research and therapy. For instance, in January 2025, MileCell Bio introduced Kryogene Cell Freezing Media - CGT, a GMP-manufactured, serum-free, protein-free, and animal-origin-free solution designed for CAR-T, MSC, iPSC, and other sensitive cell types, ensuring high post-thaw performance and compliance with clinical standards.

Recent breakthroughs, such as the September 2024 machine learning-driven discovery of novel cryoprotectants by researchers from the University of Warwick and the University of Manchester, demonstrate how technology shapes the field. These innovations reduce ice crystal damage, improve long-term storage outcomes, and support the growing demand for advanced preservation solutions in regenerative medicine, cell therapy, and biopharmaceutical production. The combination of automatic freezing systems with freezing media enables the regulation of the cooling rates. This, in turn, leads to reliability, scalability, and adherence to rules. So technological advancement becomes a very decisive factor in the market's growth.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The cell freezing media market demonstrates high innovation, driven by advances in formulation science, automation, and AI-assisted discovery of novel cryoprotectants. Modern products are increasingly serum-free, protein-free, xeno-free, and GMP-compliant, offering low-toxicity, cell-type-specific solutions that enhance post-thaw viability and meet stringent clinical standards. For instance, in September 2020, AMSBIO expanded its clinical-grade, chemically defined cryopreservation excipient solutions STEM-CELLBANKER and HSC-BANKER by adding new products and certifications, further strengthening safety and compliance. The dependability and scalability of cryopreservation are transformed by innovations such as AI-enabled cryoprotectant design, nanomaterial-based preservation, and integration with automated freezing systems for exact cooling rates. These developments are especially significant in the fields of biopharmaceutical manufacturing, cell therapy, and regenerative medicine, putting the industry in a fast-paced, technologically demanding growth phase.

The cell freezing media industry sees a moderate but rising level of M&A activity, driven by the need to expand capabilities in regenerative medicine, cell and gene therapy, and bioprocessing. Larger life sciences organizations recruit companies with comparable cryopreservation technology, GMP manufacturing, and biobanking solutions to offer end-to-end workflows, even if direct acquisitions in this segment are scarce. Stronger positioning in high-growth therapeutic sectors, access to proprietary technologies, and vertical integration are all made possible by this consolidation. For instance, in April 2025, BioLife Solutions acquired PanTHERA CryoSolutions to drive next-generation innovations in cryopreservation.

Regulations that specify requirements for product design, manufacturing, and market access have a significant impact on the cell freezing media industry. Particularly for clinical applications, adherence to GMP, ISO, and regional regulatory frameworks (FDA, EMA, PMDA) is essential, propelling the move toward serum-free, xeno-free, and chemically defined formulations for enhanced safety and consistency. Product dependability and repeatability are guaranteed by oversight pertaining to the procurement of raw materials, quality assurance, labeling, and traceability. Regulatory compliance boosts product credibility, promotes global acceptance, and drives growth in regenerative medicine, cell therapy, and biopharmaceutical manufacturing, all while increasing development costs and timelines.

Specialized, GMP-compliant formulations that are serum-, protein-, and xeno-free and designed for different cell types and applications are the focus of product expansion in the cell freezing media industry. Businesses are introducing stem cells, immune cells, and gene-modified cell-optimized solutions that are ready for automated system integration. Such diversification strengthens competitiveness in research, biobanking, and therapeutic markets by improving viability, scalability, and compliance.

Regional expansion in the cell freezing media market is driven by the growing adoption of regenerative medicine, cell and gene therapies, and biobanking across emerging and established markets. Leading players are strengthening their presence in high-growth regions such as Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America through partnerships, distribution agreements, and local manufacturing to meet rising demand and comply with regional regulatory standards. Expanding operations into these markets enables companies to tap into expanding research infrastructure, government-backed healthcare initiatives, and increasing clinical trial activity while ensuring faster supply chains and better customer support.

Product Insights

The DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) segment accounted for the largest market share of 71.00% in 2025 due to the established gold standard from years of using DMSO in traditional cryopreservation for suspending the metabolic activities of cells. DMSO is the central player in cryobiology due to its aprotic and solvation properties. It inhibits the ice crystal formation intracellularly and extracellularly at sub-zero temperatures during slow freezing; thus, DMSO has been observed to have widespread adoption as a cryoprotectant due to these antifreeze properties. For instance, in October 2024, Nucleus Biologics unveiled NB-KUL DF: a DMSO-free, chemically defined cryomedia transforming cryopreservation in cell and gene therapy.

The glycerol segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period, driven by its widespread use as a cryoprotective agent in cell freezing media. Because of its high cell permeability, low toxicity, and potent ability to inhibit the formation of ice crystals, glycerol is frequently used in cryopreservation to preserve sperm cells, red blood cells, and a variety of microbial cultures. Adoption is further fueled by its affordability and suitability for both clinical and research applications. Moreover, the others segment, comprising cryoprotectants such as ethylene glycol and propanediol, is projected to grow steadily over the forecast period. This growth is driven by rising demand for low-toxicity, xeno-free, and chemically defined cryopreservation alternatives, particularly in clinical-grade cell therapies and regenerative medicine applications.

Type Insights

In 2025, the slow freezing segment held the largest market share due to its adoption as a reliable and economical cryopreservation method for a wide variety of cell types. It is a technique that helps not only preserve cell viability over long periods but also maintain the structural integrity of the cells by preventing ice crystal formation through controlled cooling rates. Its compatibility with various cryoprotective agents, ease of standardization, and suitability for research and clinical applications have reinforced its market leadership.

The vitrification segment is expected to grow the fastest, as its ultra-rapid cooling prevents ice crystal formation and ensures superior preservation of sensitive, high-value cells such as oocytes, embryos, and certain stem cells. Advancements in vitrification media and cryodevices are improving ease of use and scalability, while expanding use in assisted reproduction, regenerative medicine, and biobanking, supported by strong clinical outcomes, are driving robust market growth.

Cell Culture Type Insights

The suspension cell culture segment dominated the market in 2025 with a share of 48.70%, owing to its widespread use in large-scale bioproduction and research applications. Suspension cultures are favored for their easy scale-up, uniform nutrient distribution, and compatibility with automated bioreactor systems, making them well-suited for producing vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and recombinant proteins. Their ability to support high-density growth without surface dependence improves efficiency and cost-effectiveness. At the same time, rising demand from biopharmaceutical manufacturing, regenerative medicine, and cell-based research continues to strengthen this segment’s market leadership.

The 3D cell culture segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by its ability to replicate in vivo-like cellular environments, enabling more accurate tissue physiology and disease progression modeling. This method strengthens cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix interactions, improving the predictive accuracy of preclinical studies in drug discovery, toxicology, and regenerative medicine. Innovations in scaffold-based systems, organoids, and microfluidic platforms are boosting usability and scalability, while rising adoption by pharmaceutical companies, academia, and research organizations is expected to drive strong segment growth. 

Application Insights

The stem cells segment dominated the market with a share of 28.91% in 2025, driven by their critical role in regenerative medicine, cell and gene therapies, and advanced biomedical research. The exceptional feature of self-renewal and differentiation into different cell types of stem cells gives them great importance in the treatment of degenerative diseases, personalized medicine, and tissue engineering.

The reproductive cells segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period, driven by rising demand for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and fertility preservation procedures. Increasing infertility rates, delayed parenthood trends, and advancements in cryopreservation techniques for oocytes, sperm, and embryos are boosting adoption.

End Use Insights

The pharmaceutical and biotechnological companies segment captured the largest market share of 40.33% in 2025. The continuous growth of biopharmaceuticals, along with the expanding product portfolio of the major pharmaceutical companies, has been attributed to the segment's growth. The cell preservation medium's optimum protection and preservation, as well as its cost-effectiveness relative to traditional freezing techniques, have driven its adoption.

The biobanks segment is anticipated to experience the fastest growth during the forecast period. These institutions ensure the long-term preservation of biological materials for research, clinical, and therapeutic applications. The growing emphasis on personalized medicine, population-based studies, and biomarker discovery has significantly increased the demand for standardized, high-quality cryopreservation solutions in biobanking.

Regional Insights

North America cell freezing media market dominated with a share of 38.12% in 2025. The market is collectively driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure, developed economies, the key players, and established supply channels. Moreover, the prevalence of diseases and the growing geriatric population have led to a race to develop advanced and efficacious therapies via the biopharmaceutical industry.

U.SCell Freezing Media Market Trends

The U.S. cell freezing media market is highly competitive, fueled by strong biopharmaceutical R&D, a robust cell and gene therapy pipeline, and leadership in regenerative medicine and precision oncology. Growing adoption of cryopreservation in clinical research, stem cell banking, immunotherapy, and personalized medicine has solidified the country’s position as an innovation hub. Key players such as Thermo Fisher Scientific, BioLife Solutions, Merck KGaA, Cytiva, and Akron Biotech are expanding GMP-compliant, xeno-free, and serum-free product lines to support scalable manufacturing and high cell viability. Continued cell and gene therapy growth, particularly for neurological and rare diseases, underscores the strategic importance of advanced freezing solutions in the U.S. market.

Europe Cell Freezing Media Market Trends

The Europe cell freezing media market is witnessing steady growth, supported by strong government funding for biomedical research, an expanding biobanking network, and increasing adoption of regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies. Rising demand for advanced preservation solutions in stem cell banking, immunotherapy development, precision medicine, and growth in cross-border research collaborations continue strengthening Europe’s position as a key market for cell freezing media. 

The UK cell freezing media industry is expanding, supported by a strong biomedical research base, advanced biobanking, and cell and gene therapy leadership. Government funding, including UK Biobank initiatives, and strict MHRA regulations drive the adoption of GMP-compliant, serum-free, and xeno-free solutions. For instance, in January 2025, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) approved Casgevy, a CRISPR-based gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease, for use within the NHS, reflecting the UK’s progressive stance in regenerative medicine.

Cell freezing media market in Germany is growing, supported by a strong biopharmaceutical sector, advanced research infrastructure, and leadership in regenerative medicine. Backed by government and EU funding and a robust biobanking network, the country is adopting GMP-compliant, serum-free, and xeno-free solutions for research and clinical use. Strict Paul-Ehrlich-Institut regulations ensure quality, while rising demand from stem cell research, immunotherapy, and precision medicine fueled by academic-industry collaborations reinforce Germany’s position as a key European hub.

Asia Pacific Cell Freezing Media Market Trends

Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth, with a CAGR of 10.83% during the forecast period. This regional demand is boosted by low labor and operating costs and has a supportive government. It is a significant center to produce biologics, particularly monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). The development of MAbs usually employs extensive use of mammalian cell cultures, which are continuously processed and require cryopreservation.

The China cell freezing media industry is growing rapidly, fueled by a booming biopharmaceutical sector, major investments in regenerative medicine, and expanding biobanking facilities. China is becoming one of the world's fastest-growing markets owing to government initiatives like "Made in China 2025," increased funding for stem cell and gene therapy research, and the adoption of GMP-compliant, serum-free, and xeno-free solutions. NMPA regulations are also being strengthened, and partnerships in stem cell banking, CAR-T therapy, and precision medicine are expanding.

Cell freezing media market in Japan is growing, driven by leadership in regenerative medicine, advanced biobanking, and pioneering stem cell research, especially iPSCs. Support from AMED and favorable PMDA regulations is boosting the adoption of GMP-compliant, serum-free, and xeno-free solutions. Rising demand from regenerative therapies, immunotherapy, and precision medicine, alongside strong academia-industry collaborations, reinforces Japan's position as a key Asia-Pacific market. 

MEA Cell Freezing Media Market Trends

The MEA cell freezing media market is growing, driven by investments in healthcare infrastructure, expanding biobanks, and rising use of regenerative medicine. With the help of government programs, public-private partnerships, and medical tourism, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are at the forefront of regional developments. Stem cell banking, fertility preservation, and partnerships with international biotech companies are driving up demand for GMP-compliant, serum-free, and xeno-free cryopreservation solutions.

Cell freezing media market in Kuwait is emerging, fueled by healthcare modernization, stem cell research, and fertility preservation. Government initiatives and collaborations with global biotech firms are driving the adoption of GMP-compliant, serum-free, and xeno-free solutions. 

Key Cell Freezing Media Company Insights

The cell freezing media market is characterized by several established players who maintain strong market positions through extensive product portfolios, technological innovation, and global distribution networks. Industry leaders such as Merck KGaA, Sartorius AG, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., and BioLife Solutions, Inc., leverage their expertise in life sciences to offer high-quality, GMP-compliant, serum-free, and xeno-free cryopreservation solutions for both research and clinical applications.

Companies including HiMedia Laboratories, Bio-Techne, PromoCell GmbH, Capricorn Scientific, Vitrolife AB, AMSBIO, and ZENOGEN PHARMA CO., LTD. are expanding their presence by providing specialized formulations tailored for sensitive cell types such as stem cells, immune cells, and reproductive cells. As applications diversify and global demand grows, innovation, scalability, and adherence to stringent quality standards will define the market's future, positioning these companies at the forefront of this rapidly evolving sector.

Recent Developments

• In January 2025, Kryogene launched its CGT cell freezing media in the US, offering GMP-compliant, serum- and protein-free cryopreservation solutions for immune and stem cell therapies, ensuring high post-thaw viability.

• In April 2024, Pluristyx launched PluriFreeze, a proprietary cryopreservation solution (RUO format) with a developed GMP version. Designed to support the company’s panCELLa iPSC platform, it is also suitable for preserving other sensitive cell types.

• In May 2022, Iwai North America Inc. and Zenogen Pharma formed a strategic marketing partnership to expand their cell preservation and biopharma solutions in key markets jointly.

• In January 2021, Sartorius partnered with RoosterBio, Inc. to enhance hMSC manufacturing for regenerative medicine, streamlining process development, strengthening the supply chain, and accelerating commercialization of cell-based therapies.

Cell Freezing Media Market Report Scope

Global Cell Freezing Media Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth and provides an analysis on the latest trends in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this report, Grand View Research has segmented the global cell freezing media market based on product, type, cell culture type, application, end use, and region.

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • DMSO

    • With Serum

    • Without Serum

  • Glycerol

    • With Serum

    • Without Serum

  • Others

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Slow Freezing

  • Vitrification

• Cell Culture Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Suspension Cell Culture

  • 2D Cell Culture

  • 3D Cell Culture

  • Others

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Stem Cells

    • Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs)

    • Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs)

    • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)

    • Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs)

    • Others

  • Cancer Cell Lines

  • Reproductive Cells

  • Primary Cells

  • Bioproduction Cell Lines

    • CHO Cells

    • HEK293 Cells

    • BHK

    • Others

  • Others

• End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology Companies

  • Academic and Research Institutes

  • Biobanks

    • Stem Cells

    • Reproductive Cells

    • Other Cells

  • IVF Clinics

  • Other End Use

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • South Korea

    • Australia

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait