Recent research, led by scientists at Staffordshire University, has identified potentially dangerous microbial growth in mummified remains of humans and animals offered for sale on the internet. This finding, published in the International Journal of Cultural Property in 2026, represents threats to both those who sell and those who acquire these materials.
The investigation, which analyzed 128 advertisements on digital platforms and auctions, also pointed to a violation of posting rules. This practice can expose postmen, customs agents and the general public to risks.
Among the most advertised items were isolated parts of the human body, such as hands and feet. More than half of the mortal remains analyzed consisted of heads, in varying states of integrity and conservation.
It was noted that sellers often provided limited information on the safe handling of these remains. Some online posts showed individuals handling human mummies without wearing protective gloves.
Even though not all materials investigated exhibited clear signs of fungal proliferation or advanced deterioration, the researchers warn that the presence of microorganisms is not always noticeable to the naked eye. This means that parts that look good can still pose hidden dangers.
Photographic evidence, cited in the study, revealed that a buyer in the United States received mummified human remains sent from the United Kingdom. The postal markings indicated that the order was dispatched by Royal Mail, although the institution’s website expressly prohibits the transport of this type of material.
Marketing of mummies on the internet raises health concerns
Dr Kirsty Squires, professor of human bioarchaeology at Staffordshire University and lead author of the study, led the research together with collaborators from the universities of Vilnius, Salento, Messina and Adelaide, all international institutions.
She stated that “the advent of the internet, especially social media platforms, has expanded international trafficking and stimulated the search for unique cultural heritage, such as human and animal mummies.”
The expert added that “these preserved remains pose health and biosafety risks, whether due to the toxicity of embalming methods or improper storage, which favors microbial proliferation.” Research has indicated that mummified remains sold digitally show signs of biodeterioration, but there is a lack of safety guidance from sellers, which points to a lack of knowledge or willful neglect of the dangers.
According to Dr. Squires, “there is evidence that mummies are being mailed to buyers, both at home and abroad, with minimal or no concern about the health and safety consequences of these practices.” She emphasized the need for “more explicit and accessible guidelines to prevent buyers and sellers from misinterpreting or exploiting loopholes in shipping policies.”
Invisible dangers: spores and toxic substances present in mummified remains
The potential risks associated with mummified remains are nothing new. Exposure and inhalation of Aspergillus fungus spores were linked to the deaths of ten of the twelve conservation scientists who participated in the opening of the tomb of King Casimir IV Jagiellon in the city of Krakow during the 1970s.
It is theorized that a severe version of aspergillosis may have contributed to Lord Carnarvon’s demise, likely arising from aspiration of Aspergillus spores in Tutankhamun’s tomb. In these situations, fungal spores can remain inactive for centuries and, when mobilized, they disperse into the air and become harmful to human health.
Inadequate packaging and improper storage of mummy conditions can accelerate biodeterioration and fungal growth. Furthermore, handling these remains can release fungal spores into the environment.
Mummified materials can also contain substances historically used in preservation and embalming processes, such as arsenic, mercury and lead.
Experts call for greater oversight of the sale of human remains online
The research authors argue for the need for stricter oversight and more transparent guidance across all e-commerce platforms, postal and express delivery services, customs bodies and relevant authorities.
Dr Squires added that “despite the significant health and safety risks involved in handling mummified remains, these are often overlooked by sellers in an unregulated market.” She suggested this may be due to “both restricted knowledge about the biological hazards of preserved soft tissue and financial interests that neglect people’s health and safety.”
She concluded that “until more efficient measures are implemented, the population must remain alert and report the sale of mummies to the competent authorities and professional entities.” Therefore, “improving inspection and education is crucial to safeguard public health and maintain the integrity of archaeological finds.”
