Myth vs. Fact: The Truth About Cremation and Funeral Industry Practices in Los Angeles County

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When planning a cremation for a loved one, you want clear, honest answers. Yet, the funeral industry has long been clouded by misconceptions, often leaving families unsure about what really happens behind closed doors. At Anubis Cremations, we believe in transparency, ethical care, and empowering families with the truth.

In this installment of our “Myth vs. Fact” series, we expose common industry myths and provide the facts you need to make informed decisions.

Myth #1: All Cremations Are the Same

Fact: Not all cremations follow the same process or provide the same level of care.

Many families assume cremation is a straightforward, uniform process. However, cremation methods and facility standards vary widely.

• Flame Cremation vs. Water Cremation – Traditional cremation uses flame and intense heat, while water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis) uses a gentle water-based process that mimics natural decomposition, producing significantly less environmental impact.
• Peace-of-Mind Memorial Coin – At Anubis, every family receives a Peace-of-Mind Memorial Coin, symbolizing our commitment to care and transparency in handling their loved one’s cremation. This coin follows their loved one through every step of the process and is returned with their cremains, whether they choose water cremation or low emission flame cremation.
• Speak with the Crematory Operator – Families may have the opportunity to speak directly with the crematory operator performing their loved one’s cremation for added peace of mind.
• Facility Transparency – Many funeral homes do not own their own crematories, outsourcing cremation to third-party facilities without families knowing. Anubis provides full transparency, handling the process ourselves in a state-of-the-art facility powered by 100% renewable electricity in Palm Springs.

Fact: Many “green” claims in the industry are misleading—but true green cremation is real.

Eco-conscious families looking for a greener alternative are often misled by marketing claims that traditional cremation is environmentally friendly.

• While cremation is more environmentally friendly than burial with embalming, flame cremation uses fossil fuels (natural gas) and has a high carbon footprint.
• Water cremation is the only true green cremation – This method uses water, alkali, and low energy consumption to reduce remains to ashes, releasing zero harmful emissions. Anubis’ water cremation facility is powered by 100% renewable electricity for a truly sustainable option.
• Low Emission Flame Cremation – Anubis offers low emission flame cremation, which reduces emissions by 50% compared to traditional flame cremation, making it a more eco-friendly choice for families who prefer traditional cremation.
• Beware of “greenwashing” – Some funeral homes advertise “green” flame cremation simply because they use slightly less energy. At Anubis, we offer authentic water cremation and low emission flame cremation, ensuring families have truly eco-friendly choices.

Fact: Many funeral homes outsource cremations to third parties.

A little-known industry secret: Many funeral homes do not own a crematory. Instead, they send your loved one to an off-site facility—sometimes without informing you.

• Outsourcing = Less Control – When funeral homes rely on third-party crematories, they have limited oversight of how remains are handled, stored, or identified.
• Anubis Controls the Process – We handle the entire cremation process ourselves, ensuring dignity, security, and transparency every step of the way.
• Families Deserve Peace of Mind – When choosing a cremation provider, always ask: Who actually performs the cremation? Where is it done? Can I speak with the crematory operator who will be cremating my loved one? With Anubis, the answer is clear—we do everything in-house and welcome you to learn about our process.

If you’re looking for a cremation provider in Los Angeles County, make sure you separate myth from fact. At Anubis, we offer ethical, transparent, and eco-friendly cremation services that put families first.

✅ Water cremation—California’s true green option
✅ Full control—no third-party outsourcing
✅ Facility powered by 100% renewable energy
✅ Low emission flame cremation—a greener choice for traditional cremation
✅ Affordable cremation options for all budgets, including low-cost low emission flame cremation

Have questions? We’re here to help. Contact Anubis Cremations today to learn more about your options and ensure your loved one receives the highest standard of care.

📞 Call us at 323-644-3323.

For families searching for “affordable cremation services in Los Angeles,” “eco-friendly cremation in LA,” or “green burial alternatives in California,” this guide provides vital insights to make informed decisions.

By choosing Anubis, you’re not just selecting a cremation provider—you’re choosing a service built on integrity, sustainability, and care.