Forecast
Period
|
2026-2030
|
Market
Size (2024)
|
USD
2.86 Billion
|
Market
Size (2030)
|
USD
4.03 Billion
|
CAGR
(2025-2030)
|
5.86%
|
Fastest
Growing Segment
|
Polyethylene
|
Largest
Market
|
North
America
|
Market Overview
Global Mortuary Bags Market was valued at USD 2.86
Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 4.03 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR
of 5.86% during the forecast period. The global mortuary bags market is
primarily driven by factors such as the increasing global mortality rate,
rising awareness of hygienic practices in handling deceased bodies, and the
growing demand for healthcare infrastructure improvements. With the expansion
of healthcare facilities, morgues, and funeral services, the need for efficient
body storage and transportation solutions has grown significantly. Mortuary
bags provide a safe, sanitary, and secure method of preserving deceased bodies
until further processing or transport. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the
importance of hygiene and safety protocols in handling deceased bodies, further
boosting the demand for these products. As the healthcare sector continues to
expand globally, particularly in developing regions, the demand for mortuary
bags is expected to continue rising, driving market growth.
Key Market Drivers
Increasing Global Mortality Rate
The increasing global mortality rate is one of the
primary drivers behind the demand for mortuary bags. According to the World
Health Organization (WHO), the global mortality rate has been rising,
especially in aging populations, and this is expected to continue. In
particular, the aging of the baby boomer generation in developed countries has
contributed to an increase in the number of deaths. In addition to aging
populations, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as
cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and respiratory illnesses, has significantly
impacted mortality rates. According to Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, the leading causes of death have had significant impacts on global
health, with heart disease and cancer being the top contributors. Heart disease
accounted for 702,880 deaths, while cancer followed closely with 608,371
fatalities. Other prominent causes include unintentional injuries, which led to
227,039 deaths, and COVID-19, which caused 186,552 fatalities. Stroke, also
known as cerebrovascular diseases, resulted in 165,393 deaths, while chronic
lower respiratory diseases caused 147,382 deaths. Alzheimer's disease was
responsible for 120,122 deaths, and diabetes contributed to 101,209 fatalities.
Additionally, nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and nephrosis accounted for 57,937
deaths, with chronic liver disease and cirrhosis causing 54,803 deaths. These statistics
underscore the continuing public health challenges posed by these conditions.
As chronic diseases become more widespread, there
is a growing need for efficient and hygienic methods of handling the deceased.
Mortuary bags are an essential part of this process, as they are used to safely
store, transport, and preserve the deceased until further processing. They help
prevent contamination or decomposition during transport, particularly when body
handling needs to occur rapidly due to an increasing volume of bodies. This
growing mortality rate ensures a steady demand for mortuary bags in healthcare
facilities, morgues, and funeral homes worldwide.
Rising Healthcare Infrastructure Development
The rising healthcare infrastructure development in
many parts of the world, especially in emerging markets, is another crucial
driver of the mortuary bags market. As countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin
America continue to invest in healthcare infrastructure, they are also
improving their morgue and funeral services capabilities. With the rapid
expansion of healthcare facilities to accommodate growing populations, the
demand for mortuary bags has risen significantly. This is particularly evident
in urbanization trends, where the establishment of new hospitals, clinics, and
morgues has contributed to the increased use of mortuary bags. For example,
countries such as India, China, and Brazil are expanding their healthcare
facilities at a rapid pace to meet the needs of their growing populations. The
development of new morgues and funeral services directly impacts the demand for
mortuary bags, as these services require efficient, hygienic, and safe methods
of body storage and transportation. As more healthcare infrastructure is built,
especially in rural or underserved regions, the market for mortuary bags is
expected to grow, supporting the safe handling and transport of deceased
bodies.
Government Regulations and Healthcare Standards
Government regulations and healthcare standards are
a significant driver for the market as well. Many countries have stringent laws
that govern the handling, storage, and transportation of deceased bodies, often
to protect public health and ensure that the bodies are treated respectfully.
These regulations often mandate the use of proper body containment equipment,
such as mortuary bags, especially in the context of infectious diseases or mass
casualties. For example, healthcare facilities must comply with standards that
specify the types of equipment needed to prevent the spread of pathogens or
contamination during body transport. Countries with advanced healthcare
systems, such as the United States and European nations, have set comprehensive
guidelines regarding body handling, which include the use of sealed mortuary
bags to prevent leakage and infection. Compliance with these regulations is
critical to ensuring public safety, and as such, healthcare facilities, funeral
homes, and morgues rely on quality mortuary bags to meet these legal
requirements.
Technological Advancements in Mortuary Bags
Technological innovations in the materials and
features of mortuary bags are also driving the market forward. Mortuary bags
have evolved significantly over the years, with advances in materials that
offer better durability, flexibility, and hygiene. Modern mortuary bags are
typically made from high-quality, leak-proof, and tear-resistant materials such
as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), laminated fabrics, or non-woven
polypropylene, ensuring body containment and preserving the deceased for longer
periods. In August 2020, Mopec, a supplier of pathology, anatomy,
mortuary, and necropsy products, launched the Safe View body bag in response to
the COVID-19 pandemic. This innovative body bag incorporates a transparent
inner layer, enabling healthcare workers to view the remains while reducing
exposure risk. The introduction of this product emphasized the critical need
for proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect workers who care for
the deceased.
Technological advancements have led to the
development of mortuary bags with antimicrobial properties, odor control, and
enhanced sealing mechanisms. Some bags also come with integrated handles, clear
viewing windows, and color-coding for easy identification. These innovations
have made mortuary bags more effective at preserving the deceased in a sanitary
manner, contributing to their growing adoption in hospitals, morgues, and
funeral homes worldwide.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a
significant effect on the mortuary bags market. The pandemic led to a surge in
the number of deaths, particularly in areas severely affected by the virus,
which necessitated the increased use of mortuary bags for safe body transport
and storage. According to WHO, On January 30, 2020,
COVID-19 was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern
(PHEIC), with an official death toll of 171. By December 31, 2020, the reported
death count had risen to 1,813,188. However, preliminary estimates suggest that
the total number of global deaths linked to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 could
be at least 3 million, indicating 1.2 million more deaths than those officially
reported.
The outbreak heightened the need for strict hygiene
and containment measures to prevent the spread of infections, with mortuary
bags providing an essential solution. Healthcare facilities, especially in
countries with overwhelmed medical systems, turned to mortuary bags to ensure
safe handling of the deceased. The pandemic also underscored the importance of
preparedness for handling mass fatalities and increased awareness about the
role of mortuary bags in this context. As the world grapples with future health
crises, the demand for mortuary bags is likely to remain elevated, with
continued reliance on these products for safe and hygienic body management.
Increase in Natural Disasters and Emergency
Situations
The increase in natural disasters and emergency
situations is contributing to the growing demand for mortuary bags. Natural
disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes, often result in a high
number of casualties. In these situations, emergency response teams and
disaster relief organizations require efficient methods of body handling and
transport. Mortuary bags provide a practical solution for managing large
volumes of deceased bodies during such crises. According to Our World in
Data , Disasters, including earthquakes, storms, floods, and
droughts, result in an average of 40,000 to 50,000 fatalities annually, based
on data from recent decades. While this represents a small proportion of global
deaths, disasters can have disproportionately severe effects on specific
populations. They offer a way to safely store and preserve bodies in
challenging conditions, ensuring that they can be transported and handled
appropriately. The use of mortuary bags in emergency situations helps mitigate
the risks of contamination and provides a dignified means of handling the
deceased, which is particularly important during disaster recovery operations.
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Key Market Challenges
Material and Quality Constraints
Material and quality constraints present another
challenge in the mortuary bags market. The quality of mortuary bags is
critical, as these products must be durable, leak-proof, and capable of safely
preserving deceased bodies during transportation and storage. However,
maintaining the appropriate balance between cost, quality, and functionality is
difficult. Manufacturers need to use high-quality materials that meet standards
for hygiene and safety, but such materials can be expensive. At the same time,
there is constant pressure to keep costs low to remain competitive in a
price-sensitive market. This tension between producing high-quality,
cost-effective mortuary bags can be challenging, as subpar materials or
manufacturing techniques could compromise the effectiveness of the bags,
leading to safety risks and reduced demand for the product.
Cost Pressures and Economic Conditions
The cost pressures and economic conditions
affecting both manufacturers and end-users also pose challenges for the
mortuary bags market. Many healthcare facilities, especially in developing
regions, face budget constraints and may not prioritize investing in
high-quality mortuary bags. As healthcare systems in these regions try to
maximize cost efficiency, they may opt for lower-priced options, which may not
offer the same level of durability or effectiveness. This creates a market for
lower-quality products, which can drive down the overall standards in the
industry. The financial strain resulting from global economic conditions such
as inflation, economic downturns, or public health crises (like the COVID-19
pandemic) might lead to reduced spending on non-essential products like
mortuary bags. In a highly competitive market, suppliers may struggle to
maintain profitability while meeting the price expectations of their customers.
Supply Chain Disruptions
Supply chain disruptions are another critical
challenge in the global mortuary bags market. The production of mortuary bags
depends on a steady supply of raw materials such as plastics, fabrics, and
specialized coatings. Any disruptions in the supply of these materials, whether
due to geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, or unforeseen events like
pandemics, can significantly impact the availability and pricing of mortuary
bags. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread supply chain disruptions
across various industries, including healthcare and funeral services. Such
delays can lead to a shortage of mortuary bags in critical situations,
especially in regions experiencing high demand due to increased death rates or
natural disasters. Supply chain issues can result in delayed product delivery,
increased costs for manufacturers, and stock shortages, which can undermine
customer confidence in the market.
Key Market Trends
Heightened Focus on Hygiene and Safety
A heightened focus on hygiene and safety in medical
and funeral settings is a driving force behind the demand for mortuary bags.
With increasing awareness of the importance of hygiene and sanitation in
handling deceased bodies, particularly in the context of infectious diseases,
the need for high-quality, reliable mortuary bags has grown. The COVID-19
pandemic highlighted the critical need for proper handling and containment of
bodies to prevent the spread of infections, such as the coronavirus. Mortuary
bags are designed to provide a hygienic solution by sealing bodies to prevent
the spread of bacteria and bodily fluids that could pose health risks to those
handling the body. As regulations and standards related to infection control
become stricter, healthcare institutions and funeral homes are investing in
better equipment, including mortuary bags, to ensure that the deceased are
stored and transported safely and in compliance with public health protocols.
This focus on hygiene and safety has led to a growing preference for mortuary
bags, especially those made of high-quality materials with features like
antimicrobial coatings, odor control, and leak-proof seals.
Growing Awareness in Funeral Services
Growing awareness in funeral services is another
important factor driving the market for mortuary bags. In many regions, funeral
services have become more formalized, with an increased emphasis on
professional, dignified handling of the deceased. As funeral services evolve
and become more structured, there is a greater emphasis on hygienic standards,
which directly influences the demand for mortuary bags. Funeral homes,
crematoriums, and other service providers increasingly recognize the importance
of following proper procedures for body handling to ensure that the deceased
are treated with dignity and respect. This shift in public awareness and
attitudes has prompted funeral homes and healthcare providers to adopt higher
standards of body storage and transportation. Mortuary bags, which are designed
to protect and contain bodies during transport, are a crucial component of this
elevated level of care. As the funeral industry adapts to more professional and
organized services, mortuary bags are becoming a standard tool to improve
operational efficiency and ensure the proper management of deceased bodies.
Segmental Insights
Raw Material Insights
Based on the Raw Material, polyethylene
is the most widely used and dominates the global mortuary bags market due to
its excellent properties in terms of durability, hygiene, and
cost-effectiveness. Polyethylene, particularly high-density polyethylene (HDPE)
and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), offers a range of benefits that make it
the preferred material for mortuary bags across various regions and
applications.
Polyethylene is known for
its durability and strength, which are essential characteristics for mortuary
bags. The material provides the necessary leak-proof barrier to prevent bodily
fluids from escaping, which is vital for both hygienic purposes and safety
during transportation. Polyethylene is highly resistant to tears and punctures,
ensuring that the bag maintains its integrity even when under pressure, such as
during handling, storage, or transport. This makes polyethylene bags
particularly useful in healthcare facilities, morgues, and funeral homes, where
safe, long-term storage and secure transport of the deceased are essential. The
hygienic properties of polyethylene are another key factor in its dominance in
the market. It is a non-porous material, which means it is highly resistant to
the absorption of liquids, bacteria, and pathogens. Given the rising awareness
of infection control, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, polyethylene
bags are an ideal solution to ensure that deceased bodies are transported
safely and hygienically, preventing contamination or the spread of infections.
The ease with which polyethylene can be sealed also contributes to its
popularity, as it ensures that bodies are securely enclosed within the bag,
providing an additional layer of protection against environmental factors.
End Use Insights
Based on the end use
segment, hospitals are the dominant users compared to morgues. Hospitals,
particularly large healthcare facilities and those located in urban centers,
account for the bulk of the demand for mortuary bags due to the high volume of
patients and the need for proper management of deceased bodies. Hospitals play
a critical role in the initial handling of deceased patients before bodies are
transferred to morgues, funeral homes, or crematoriums, which positions them as
the leading market driver in the mortuary bags sector.
The primary factor driving
the hospital's dominance in the market is the high number of deaths occurring
within hospital settings. Hospitals are equipped to handle emergency cases,
surgeries, and critical illnesses, which result in a large number of fatalities.
When a death occurs in the hospital, mortuary bags are used to preserve the
body and prevent contamination during transportation to the morgue or funeral
service providers. As hospitals are often the first point of contact for people
who suffer from serious illnesses, accidents, or medical emergencies, they see
a continual influx of deceased patients, making mortuary bags an essential tool
in their operations.
Hospitals also have a
critical responsibility to ensure infection control and maintain hygiene
standards, which is particularly important when dealing with infectious
diseases. The use of mortuary bags made from high-quality, leak-proof materials
such as polyethylene ensures the safe containment of the deceased, preventing
any bodily fluids from escaping and posing potential health risks. This
hygienic approach is increasingly important in today’s healthcare environment,
where the spread of infections is a key concern. With the rising awareness of
infection control, especially post-pandemic, hospitals are more likely to use
specialized mortuary bags that meet rigorous infection control standards to
prevent the spread of pathogens.
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Regional Insights
North America was the dominant region in the global mortuary bags market,
accounting for the largest share of the market. This dominance can be
attributed to several factors, including a highly developed healthcare
infrastructure, a significant aging population, high standards of hygiene and
safety regulations, and a well-established network of hospitals, morgues, and
funeral service providers that require reliable and hygienic body storage and
transportation solutions.
One of the primary reasons for North America's
dominance is its advanced healthcare infrastructure. The United States
and Canada have a vast number of healthcare facilities, including hospitals,
trauma centers, and emergency care units, which handle a large number of
fatalities every year. In these countries, the demand for mortuary bags is
consistent due to the volume of medical cases, accidents, chronic diseases, and
aging populations that result in an increased number of deaths. Hospitals in
North America often have in-house morgues, and with the prevalence of high
standards for body storage, mortuary bags become essential tools for handling
the deceased efficiently. This high volume of body handling in hospitals
contributes to the continuous demand for mortuary bags across North America.
The aging population in countries like the
United States and Canada is another factor that is driving growth in the
mortuary bags market. As life expectancy rises and the proportion of elderly
individuals increases, the number of deaths naturally follows, creating
sustained demand for mortuary bags. Older populations often experience health
issues such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, leading to an increased
number of hospital-related fatalities. The aging demographic, combined with the
rising incidence of chronic diseases, means that North American healthcare
systems experience a steady flow of deceased bodies, making mortuary bags a
critical necessity for hospitals and funeral homes.
Key Market Players
- Roftek Ltd (Flexmort)
- Neogen Corporation
- Medilivescare Manufacturing
Pvt. Ltd.
- Mopec Group
- Peerless Plastics, Inc.
- Classic Plastics Corporation
- Auden Funeral Supplies Limited
- CEABIS (Vezzani S.p.A)
- Polcreative Group
- Extra Packaging LLC
By Raw
Material
|
By Size
|
By End Use
|
By Region
|
- PVC
- Polyethylene
- Nylon
- Polyester
- Others
|
- Adult Bags
- Child/Infant
Bags
- Heavy Duty
& Bariatric Bags
|
|
- North
America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- South
America
- Middle East
& Africa
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the Global Mortuary Bags Market has
been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry
trends which have also been detailed below:
- Mortuary Bags Market, By Raw Material:
o PVC
o Polyethylene
o Nylon
o Polyester
o Others
- Mortuary Bags Market, By Size:
o Adult Bags
o Child/Infant Bags
o Heavy Duty & Bariatric
Bags
- Mortuary Bags Market, By End Use:
o Hospital
o Morgue
- Mortuary Bags Market, By Region:
o North America
§ United States
§ Canada
§ Mexico
o Europe
§ France
§ United Kingdom
§ Italy
§ Germany
§ Spain
o Asia-Pacific
§ China
§ India
§ Japan
§ Australia
§ South Korea
o South America
§ Brazil
§ Argentina
§ Colombia
o Middle East & Africa
§ South Africa
§ Saudi Arabia
§ UAE
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Mortuary
Bags Market.
Available Customizations:
Global Mortuary Bags market report with the
given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a
company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for
the report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and profiling of additional
market players (up to five).
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