Methods and compositions involving nutritive media, media supplements, media subgroup and buffer formulations are provided. Powder buffer formulations that produce particular ionic and pH conditions upon reconstitution with a solvent are also disclosed. Methods of producing these media, media supplements, media subgroups and buffer formulations as well as kits and methods for cultivation of procaryotic and eukaryotic cells (including human cells) are also provided. Also disclosed are methods of producing sterile powdered media, media supplements, powdered growth factors, media subgroup and buffer formulations. Methods of sterilization include gamma irradiation. Methods for producing dry cell powders where spray-drying a cell suspension may be used are disclosed. Cells, media, media supplements, media subgroups and buffer powders produced by these methods are also disclosed.