A recent study highlights the existence of a global online market for preserved human remains, a peculiar interest that researchers warn may carry health risks. Lead author Kirsty Squires and her team examined 128 online posts between 2015 and 2025 showcasing the sale of mummified remains of humans and animals. Squires, a bioarchaeology professor at the University of Staffordshire, noted the prevalence of mummified heads, hands, and feet in these listings.
The study cautions that mummified body parts may contain dormant microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, which could pose health threats if mishandled. Improper storage conditions, commonly seen in online listings, can accelerate the deterioration of remains, potentially releasing harmful fungal spores and bacteria into the air. These microorganisms have the ability to survive in mummified tissues for extended periods, potentially impacting individuals with compromised immune systems.
Furthermore, some mummified body parts may retain toxic substances like arsenic and mercury from historical embalming practices. While the study does not report specific cases of illness from handling these remains, historical incidents, such as the deaths of conservation scientists exposed to mould spores in a tomb, underscore the potential dangers.
Addressing the ethical concerns surrounding the trade of human remains, Professor James Scott emphasizes the need for regulation in this niche market. In Canada, where 11 individuals were identified as sellers in the study, digital archaeology expert Shawn Graham highlights the lack of meaningful regulation in the buying and selling of human remains online. Despite regulations by some shipping companies and agencies regarding the transportation of human remains, sellers often bypass restrictions by labeling packages as archaeological samples.
Graham advocates for stricter laws similar to those proposed in the U.K. to prohibit the online sale of human remains, emphasizing the need to respect the dignity of the deceased. The study sheds light on the complexities and risks associated with the trade of mummified remains, urging for greater awareness and regulation in this unique market.
