University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth
University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth Screenshot of University of North Texas Health Science Center Official Website

After suspending its body donation program due to an unlawful body retrieval earlier this year, the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC) finds itself in another medical controversy.

Recently, the Texas medical school has been compelled to end a practice that uses alkaline hydrolysis—the so-called water cremation, a body disposal method after training and research.

According to NBC News, the Texas Funeral Service Commission, inspecting its premises, claimed the practice violated state law. While water cremation is an eco-friendly alternative to the usual cremation, it remains an illegal practice in Texas. In over 25 states, it is not uncommon, yet Texas law allows only burial or cremation to dispose of human remain

This type of cremation involves dissolving bodies using water, chemicals, and heat. It also leaves a liquid that can be drained and ashes returned to families.

Response to UNTHSC's Illegal Water Cremation

Unfortunately, what adds to UNTHSC's dilemma is that families donating bodies to the program were unaware of this method, raising ethical concerns. The Daily Mail shared that consent forms promised cremation, but many were shocked to find out about water cremation, especially considering the religious and cultural implications.

Records show the center adopted water cremation to cut costs, expecting to save $1 million in five years. Critics said this undermines respect for the dead with religious groups opposing the legalization of the method, including the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, saying it dishonors human dignity.

Looking forward, this controversy has called for more strenuous checks on body donation programs in Texas. The regulators have now demanded better oversight to ensure the proper treatment of remains and respect donor and family wishes. The medical has already been issued with a cease-and-desist letter threatening fines and license revocation if the university didn't comply within 14 days.