What is the definition of "cremation" according to Missouri law?

The definition of "cremation" according to Missouri law is the process of reducing remains to bone fragments through heat. This definition captures the essence of cremation, which involves the use of intense heat to decompose human remains, leaving behind primarily bone fragments. This process not only eliminates the organic material but also allows for the ashes to be collected and either retained by the family or scattered according to their wishes.

Understanding this definition is critical for anyone working in the funeral industry, as it relates directly to how cremation services are provided, the regulations surrounding them, and how they differ from other methods of body disposition. Unlike burial, which involves interring remains in the ground, or preservation methods like refrigeration, cremation specifically alters the remains through the application of heat, making it a distinct practice within the realm of funeral services.