Undercover reporters in Chongqing have exposed illegal sales of fresh and processed human placentas for consumption.
Undercover reporters in Chongqing have exposed illegal sales of fresh and processed human placentas for consumption. According to reports, placentas are prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine, which asserts they invigorate the kidneys and replenish the blood. Many sellers claimed they source the placentas from local hospitals. Gender factors into price for fresh placentas, with those of newborn males fetching 300-400 yuan (US$43.5-58), slightly higher than those from females. According to lawyers, selling placentas is illegal: a placenta lawfully belongs to the mother, and if she does not want it, the hospital must dispose of the placenta according to medical regulations. Local health authorities are investigating the hospitals allegedly involved in the sales.
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