China's publicly denied rumours the country is marinating and canning dead bodies, and selling humans as other meats in Zambian supermarkets.

The Washington Post reports that China's ambassador to Zambia released a statement this week, which was widely reported in Chinese media.

It said the rumours are "malicious slandering and vilification" and "completely unacceptable."

The rumours aren't true - as the photos shared online alongside quotes from Chinese factory workers claiming the practice had begun, were taken from a 2012 video game marketing stunt for Resident Evil 6.

It touched a nerve though, with China's ambassador demanding an investigation, and prompting an apology from Zambia's deputy Defence Minister.