Abstract: Methods are provided for producing serum-free, animal cell culture media which have enhanced cell culture properties, such as cell growth, cell viability and protein production properties. The cell culture properties of standard serum-free media formulations, which include compositions such as inorganic salts, glucose, fatty acids, amino acids and vitamins, can be enhanced according to the methods of the invention, by providing the media with an additive. The additive in one embodiment can be produced by the acid or base catalyzed hydrolysis of a phosphoglyceride.