In a recent research study, experts have highlighted the existence of a global market for preserved human remains available for purchase online. Despite being an unconventional item in delivery packages, the trade in mummified human and animal remains is being discussed due to potential health risks associated with handling such artifacts.
Lead author Kirsty Squires and her team examined 128 online posts from 2015 to 2025 showcasing and selling mummified body parts, including heads, hands, and feet. According to Squires, these remains can contain dormant microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and yeast, which may pose health concerns if not handled properly. However, some specialists argue that knowledgeable collectors may not face significant risks.
The study emphasizes the importance of proper storage conditions for mummified remains to prevent deterioration and potential health hazards. Squires warns that storing these items in uncontrolled environments, such as homes or garages, can lead to the release of harmful fungal spores and bacteria into the air when handled.
When dealing with human remains for research purposes, Squires advocates for the use of protective gear to minimize health risks. Concerns extend to the possible presence of toxic substances like arsenic and mercury in embalmed body parts, originating from 19th and early 20th-century preservation methods.
While the study does not report specific cases of illnesses resulting from handling online-purchased human remains, historical incidents have demonstrated the dangers of exposure to airborne mould spores. Despite the health risks, some experts, like James Scott, prioritize ethical considerations over health concerns related to the trade in mummified remains.
Canadian researchers found that 11 out of the examined online posts originated from individuals in Canada, reflecting the presence of a market for mummified human remains in the country. The lack of meaningful regulations in Canada concerning the sale and purchase of such remains raises concerns about potential health risks and ethical implications.
Efforts to regulate the trade in human remains are being discussed globally, with calls for stricter laws to prohibit the online sale of mummified artifacts. The study raises awareness about the risks associated with handling mummified remains and advocates for more stringent regulations to prevent health hazards and uphold ethical standards in the preservation and trade of human remains.