Lyophilization, also known as freeze-drying or cryo-desiccation, is the process of removing water from a sample without the need to apply heat, to stabilize the sample. Besides increasing sample shelf life, freeze-drying samples also reduces sample weight and volume, reduces the risk of contamination and eliminates the need to refrigerate samples, decreasing shipping and storage costs.

As well as increasing shelf life, lyophilization also helps to minimize environmental impact:

• Individual components of an assay can be combined in a single tube, reducing packaging volumes and weight
• Ability to store at room temperature means energy is not consumed through refrigeration/freezer storage
• Reduced weight and volume make lyophilized samples more environmentally friendly for shipping
• No dry or wet ice needed for transportation reducing environmental effects