Human Flesh Capsules Under Investigation: Ingredients Bought From Abortion Clinics? (VIDEO)
China has launched a reinvestigation into the production of pharmaceuticals after recent reports which stated that the remains of human flesh was found in pill capsules.
Initial reports confirmed Monday that South Korean officials had confiscated pill capsules, which contained remnants of babies' flesh that were reportedly being promoted as "stamina boosters."
"Since human flesh capsules are confirmed to contain ingredients lethal to humans, including super bacteria, we will preemptively curb their smuggling at borders to protect public health," customs officials told South Korea's newspaper Dong-a Ilbo.
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Authorities believe the pills are being smuggled in from China, but Chinese officials launched an investigation last year and reported that no such capsules were being made. In spite of the past investigation, a new investigation would be launched in response to the latest discovery, Deng Haihua, a Ministry of Health spokesman, told the Associated Press Tuesday.
South Korean authorities refused to reveal any further information regarding the discovery citing "possible diplomatic friction with Beijing."
One South Korean documentary suggested that pharmaceutical companies collected the remains from abortion clinics, who are looking to dispose of the remains of unborn babies. The documentary revealed that 99.7 percent of the powder was human and often included hair and nails.
Over 17,450 pills have been discovered since August, disguised and "stamina boosters" according to the Associated Press. Authorities also reported of 35 attempts to smuggle the pills. Some locals also believe the pills can be used to fight off certain disease.
One local reported that strange ingredients often appear in China.
"I live in China in Shenzhen and on my walk home tonight, I witnessed a man skimming cooking oil out of the sewer to resell to the supermarkets.... 3 out of 10 meals at restaurants are made with such oil," Amy Holland told Gawker News. "Last week, the news was that the gelatin in pill capsules, jello treats and yogurt is made from industrial leather and old shoes... Trying to eat, breathe, drink water, stay healthy here is like walking a minefield every day.... Nothing surprises me these days!"
While authorities have raised concern of the possible health issues of consuming human flesh, little has been said of the ethical implications.
