EBSS without Calcium, Magnesium, and Phenol Red is a balanced salt solution formulated with a higher glucose and bicarbonate content relative to HBSS, supporting short-term cell viability outside of complete growth media. Its lack of amino acids and serum components also makes it a common choice for nutrient-starvation protocols, such as autophagy induction studies. The elevated bicarbonate content also supports buffering capacity in CO2-controlled incubation environments, making it well suited for extended short-term incubations.