A Wiltshire woman who makes smoothies from human placenta is under investigation by public health officials. Kathryn Beale, from Swindon, produces the drinks for new mothers who supply their own placenta, blending it with berries and banana.
Beale insists the smoothies are safe and claims health benefits, including helping with anaemia and postnatal depression. However, Swindon Borough Council sought an emergency prohibition order after learning of her business. Beale has voluntarily stopped production pending a hygiene inspection.
She makes each smoothie with an 8cm piece of placenta, banana, organic berries and water. The remaining placenta is dehydrated into pills. Beale has run the business for two years, with about two customers per month. She says 40% of her pill customers also have a smoothie.
Beale sterilises equipment and follows strict hygiene rules. She said: “Somebody contacted the council and asked what my hygiene rating was, and I don’t have one yet.” The council stated: “The processes involved present a number of potentially serious health risks.”
