Embalming is defined as 'the preservation of a body from decay, originally with spices and more recently through arterial injection of embalming fluid'.
The current common use of the word 'embalming' is misleading.
The process is generally referred to as 'cosmetic embalming', and is used to improve the visual appearance of the body and prevent deterioration in the period leading up to the funeral.
It has no long-term preservative value and cannot be compared to the Egyptian process of preserving bodies for a long period.
Decisions about embalming are very personal and you should consider a number of issues.
This section of the website aims to give you relevant information to help you make your decisions and answer some of the more common questions about cosmetic embalming.
More information about embalming:
More information about the Cemeteries Service:
For further information contact us at:
Cemeteries Administration Office
St Edmundsbury Borough Council
West Suffolk House
Western Way
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP33 3YU
Phone: 01284 757068 or 757635
Fax: 01284 757066
Email: cemetery.service@stedsbc.gov.uk
