The present invention relates to the use of at least one compound of formula (I) R—(OCH2)n—OR′ in which R and R′, identical or different, represent a linear or branched alkyl radical comprising 1 to 5 carbon atoms and n is an index with a value comprised between 1 and 8, and/or at least one dialdehyde acetal type compound for the preservation of the human or animal body and/or the embalming of dead bodies.It also relates to a composition comprising same and a process for preserving a human or animal body and/or embalming a dead body comprising the administration of the composition to the dead body in particular by injection, perfusion, immersion or topical application.