A growing global trade in mummified human remains has been described by academics as posing a serious health risk. Research into the buying and selling of centuries-old human body parts, including hands, feet, and heads, identified alarming risks from dormant microorganisms and toxic preservation materials.
The peer-reviewed academic article, published in the International Journal of Cultural Property, highlights a "semi-clandestine, often illicit" trade. This trade has reportedly been amplified through social media, personal websites, e-commerce platforms, and auction houses, with participants appearing to have little awareness of the risks.
An examination of 128 online posts found multiple cases of mummified remains showing signs of biodeterioration. Sellers often provided no safety guidance and used postal services for transport. The study also warns that postal and courier company workers are at risk as they are unlikely to wear necessary personal protection equipment when handling these consignments.
Mummified remains can harbour dormant fungal spores, which can become airborne when disturbed and pose health risks. The paper notes that inhalation of aspergillus spores was linked to the deaths of 10 conservation scientists who opened King Casimir IV's tomb in the 1970s.