A blood storage system comprising: a collection vessel for red blood cells; an oxygen or oxygen and carbon dioxide depletion device; a storage vessel for red blood cells; tubing connecting the collection vessel to the oxygen or oxygen and carbon dioxide depletion device and the oxygen or oxygen and carbon dioxide depletion device to the storage vessel; and a gamma or X-ray irradiating device is used to irradiate red blood cells stored in the vessel, storing red blood cells under anaerobic conditions.

This disclosure provides systems and methods for storing and preserving an implantable device. The system comprises a first sealable container; a second sealable container housed within the first sealable container; and a storage solution comprising a zinc compound contained in the second sealable container. The storage solution exhibits antimicrobial activity of inhibiting or controlling growth of microbial organisms and is capable of maintaining the implantable device in a hydrated state.