Embalming Facts Continued:

Ambient temperature has more affect on the decomposition process than the time elapsed after death, whether or
not a body has been embalmed. In a sealed casket in above-ground entombment in a warm climate, a body will 
decompose very rapidly.

Embalming is a physically invasive process in which special devices are implanted, and chemicals and techniques are 
used to give an appearance of restful repose. The normal waxy-white color of a dead body is replaced with a more
life-like tone by the use of dyes in the embalming fluid.

Embalming chemicals are highly toxic. Embalmers are required by OSHA to wear a respirator and full-body covering 
while embalming. Funeral home effluent, however, is not regulated, and waste is flushed into the common sewer 
system or septic tank.

Refrigeration is an alternative to maintain a body while awaiting a funeral service or when there is a delay in making
arrangements. Not all funeral homes have refrigeration facilities, but most hospitals do. At home, dry ice can be used.

Embalming has not roots in Christian religion and is common only in the U. S. and Canada. Embalming is considered
a desecration of the body by orthodox Jewish and Muslin religions. Hindus and Buddhists choosing cremation have
no need for embalming.

Private or home viewing by family members and close friends can occur without embalming and is far more 
"traditional" than some of the services promoted by the industry under that name.

The funeral industry promotes embalming and viewing as a means to show "proper respect for the body," and to
establish the "clear identity" of the corpse so that the reality of death cannot be denied by those who view the
body. Many funeral directors are convinced that seeing the body is a necessary part of the grieving process, even 
if death was long and anticipated.

Few funeral directors will participate in the public viewing of a body without embalming and cosmetic restoration.
While some people may be comforted by "a beautiful memory picture," as it's called in the trade, 32% of consumers
reported that viewing was a negative experience, according to a 1990 survey.

Embalming gives funeral homes a sales opportunity to increase consumer spending (by as much as
$3,000. or more) for additional body preparation, a more expensive casket with "protective" features
perhaps, a more expensive outer burial container, and a more elaborate series of ceremonies.