Stop trying to make Glutaraldehyde happen…

Article by Carolyn Searls FD/Embalmer 

For most funeral homes, formaldehyde-based embalming fluids are the standard, and have been the standard since the mid 1860’s when it replaced arsenic as the primary preservative during the Civil War. 

Obviously, we’ve made major advances in chemistry since that time, as well as become more aware of our environmental impacts. Glutaraldehyde-based embalming fluids like ‘Champion’ embalming fluids give us not only longer-lasting preservation and better sanitation, but they also have a more limited effect on the planet when compared to formaldehyde.

Many funeral homes are afraid to make the switch due to Glutaraldehyde not being regulated by the federal government regarding its release. This makes it harder for corporate funeral homes to access, on top of most embalmers only being trained to use formaldehyde-based chemicals. 

A lot of embalmers might say that formaldehyde is the better preservative, since formaldehyde has been proven to create firmness faster. On the other hand, it might take a bit longer to see the results of a Glutaraldehyde fluid, but it will hold firmness for a longer period. With glutaraldehyde being used on countless medical cadavers and leather projects, it’s hard to say it’s not an excellent preservative. 

PH of the body is a big factor in preservation. With the different diseases the human body can face, and the many medications we use to treat people, the PH levels are highly affected. Formaldehyde may not be as effective compared to glutaraldehyde in cases where PH has changed. Which is why Champion embalming fluid has chemicals like ‘PHa’, which is a water conditioner and PH activator that helps with drainage. 

Glutaraldehyde has been proven to be a stronger disinfectant that can kill a wide range of microorganisms while being less harsh on the embalmer, because it is less persistent and more biodegradable than Formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is also a known possible carcinogen while also being less effective at sanitation. When you weigh the pros and cons, it seems clear what the better choice would be. 

 

 

Acknowledgments to Champion’s article ‘Embalming Chemistry: Glutaraldehyde versus Formaldehyde’ by James H. Bedino and ‘thechampioncompany.com’