Embalming
· Updated
Embalming methods
Embalming refers to the chemical treatment of the deceased to slow the natural decomposition of tissues. Modern embalming is primarily based on injecting preservation fluid, traditionally formaldehyde-based, into the vascular system (arterial embalming). In the treatment, blood is replaced with preservation fluid, which fixes tissue proteins and slows bacterial activity. The procedure requires special training.
Thanatopraxis (French: thanatopraxie) is a broader concept that also covers the cosmetic preparation of the deceased. In the United States, for example, embalming is common, but in Finland the preparation of the deceased typically includes only washing and dressing without chemical treatment.
Embalming in Finland
In Finland, embalming is rare. The deceased are kept in cold storage, which usually slows decomposition sufficiently until the funeral. Under section 2 of the Burial Act, the deceased must be buried or cremated without undue delay, so long-term preservation is not usually needed.
Embalming may be relevant, for example, in international transport of the deceased if the destination country's authorities or the carrier require it. The Strasbourg Agreement on the Transfer of Corpses (1973) requires a transport document (laissez-passer) and an impervious coffin; if the person died of an infectious disease, the body must also be wrapped in material impregnated with an antiseptic solution. The Agreement itself does not require embalming.
Environmental considerations
Traditional embalming fluids contain formaldehyde (methanal), which is classified under the EU CLP Regulation as a carcinogen (category 1B). In coffin burial, embalming chemicals may gradually enter the soil. In the crematorium, the chemicals break down as they burn but may cause emissions in flue gases.
As environmental awareness has grown, formaldehyde-free and less harmful preservation fluids have been developed. The ecological burial trend favours treatments containing as few chemicals as possible, which is in line with the Finnish practice of cold storage.
Legislation and international practices
Finnish legislation does not specifically regulate embalming. Under the Burial Act, the body of the deceased must be treated in a dignified manner that respects the memory of the deceased. In international transport, the Strasbourg Agreement, the destination country's requirements and the carrier's terms are followed; the coffin must be impervious, and a metal-lined (for example zinc) coffin is often used. The funeral home handles the practical arrangements, including the necessary documents and coordination of transport.
Frequently asked questions
Is embalming used in Finland?
In Finland, embalming is rare compared with, for example, the United States, where it is common. In Finland, the deceased is kept in cold storage until the funeral, which is usually sufficient because funerals are typically held within a few weeks of death. Embalming may be used, for example, when the deceased is transported abroad and the destination country or carrier requires it.
Is embalming harmful to the environment?
Traditional embalming fluids contain formaldehyde, which is classified in the EU as a carcinogen (category 1B). Because of environmental and occupational exposure concerns, formaldehyde-free preservation fluids have also been developed. Ecological burial principles favour as little chemical treatment as possible.
When is embalming mandatory?
Finnish law does not require embalming. The Strasbourg Agreement on the Transfer of Corpses (1973), to which Finland has acceded, requires a transport document (laissez-passer) and an impervious coffin, but not embalming. Authorities in the destination country or airlines may, however, have their own requirements, which the funeral home will check.
Related terms
The washing and cleaning of the deceased's body before dressing and placing in the casket.
A facility where cremation of the deceased is carried out. Finland has approximately 20 crematoria.
A vessel into which the cremation remains of the deceased are placed after cremation, for burial, storage or scattering of ashes.
A company that provides services related to a death, such as transport of the deceased, arrangement of funerals and guidance for family members.
Read also
How is the transport and storage of the deceased arranged in Finland? Read about transport arrangements, cold storage, timelines, and costs.
Guide to natural burial grounds: what they are, how they differ from traditional cemeteries, availability in Finland and international examples.
Guide to body donation to science: how the process works in Finland, university requirements, family considerations and remembrance.