A recent study has shed light on the global market for preserved human remains sold online, a niche interest that experts warn could pose health risks. Lead author Kirsty Squires and her team examined 128 web posts from 2015 to 2025 showcasing or promoting the sale of mummified remains from humans and animals. Squires, a bioarchaeology professor at the University of Staffordshire, observed that mummified heads, hands, and feet were commonly featured in these posts.
The study highlighted the potential health hazards associated with handling mummified body parts, which may harbor dormant microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and yeast. Improper storage conditions can lead to visible signs of deterioration, releasing fungal spores or bacteria into the air when handled. Some mummified body parts may also contain toxic chemicals such as arsenic and mercury from historical embalming practices.
While the paper did not report any specific cases of illness from handling online-sold human remains, historical incidents like the deaths of conservation scientists in 1973 and Lord Carnarvon in 1923 have raised concerns about the dangers of exposure to airborne spores from ancient tombs. However, some experts believe that the real issue lies in the ethical implications of trading in human remains rather than the health risks involved.
In Canada, where 11 of the examined online posts originated, the sale and purchase of human remains are not heavily regulated. Despite restrictions by postal services like Canada Post, Purolator, and UPS on shipping mummified human remains, sellers can exploit loopholes by mislabeling packages as archaeological samples. This lack of oversight poses potential risks to postal workers and others handling these remains.
The study also highlighted the colonialist nature of the trade, with most remains claimed to be from Egypt and South America. Some experts advocate for legislative measures to ban the online sale of human remains, similar to a bill introduced in the U.K. earlier this year. Addressing the ethical concerns surrounding the commodification of human remains is crucial in safeguarding cultural heritage and respecting the dignity of the deceased.