For meniscal allograft transplantation, cell viability and metabolic activity are desirable. The various modalities of preserving the menisci described in the literature include, deep freezing, gluteraldehyde, lyophillisation and cryopreservation. Since formalin in low concentrations is a proven and inexpensive method of tissue preservstion, we attempted to analyse the viability of fibrochondrocytes in the meniscal tissue preserved in three different concentrations of formalin. Twenty-four rabbit menisci were assessed, three groups of 6 menisci each were preserved in 0.25%, 1%, 5% formalin for a period of three weeks; fourth group of 6 fresh menisci were used as controls. The uptake of Na235SO4 and LDH (lactate de-hydrogenase) were analysed for indirect evidence of cell viability. Menisci preserved in 0.25% of formaldehyde showed statistically similar Na235SO4 uptake and LDH activity as the controls; reflecting a similarity in the level of cell viability and metabolic activity. The menisci preserved in 1% and 5% formaldehyde solution showed a decreased radioactive uptake as well as LDH activity.