Embalming is a funerary process that involves temporarily preserving the appearance of a deceased body by replacing its fluids with a mixture of chemicals, such as formaldehyde. It is typically performed before a funeral to maintain the body for a public viewing. Here, the director from Fred D. Knapp & Son Funeral Home in Greenwich, CT, discusses a few of the misconceptions people have about the process.

What Is Often Misunderstood About Embalming

1. It Protects the Public Health

It's often thought that a decomposing body can transmit bacteria and diseases if it's not embalmed. In most cases, they are inactive after death occurs and pose no risk of contaminating the ground or anyone in contact with it.

2. U.S Law Requires It

No states legally require embalming within the first 24 hours after death unless the body is being transported to another region or within a certain distance. Refrigeration is often used if the body will be buried by the following day.

3. Embalming Is Necessary for Cremation

Cremation is the process of reducing the deceased body to ashes, so the remains can be buried or retained by the family. It’s not necessary to embalm a body before this process. However, the funeral home may require it if there will be a public viewing first.

4. All Cultures Practice It

Many cultures use some form of embalming to preserve the deceased; however, the United States and Canada perform it most frequently. In fact, Muslim and Jewish religions prohibit the process and require the funeral and burial to occur within 24 hours of death when possible.

If you’re planning a funeral for your loved one and want to find out whether the embalming process is appropriate, look to the caring professionals at Fred D. Knapp & Son Funeral Home in Greenwich, CT. They provide a wide range of supportive funeral services to honor your loved one. To speak with a representative call (203) 869-0315 today or visit them online to learn more about the professionals.