After a series of health issues were reportedly linked to dietary supplements, the Japanese government has launched an investigation into their approval system for health products. This move comes in response to a raid on Kobayashi Pharmaceutical’s factory in Osaka, which was carried out by officials from several ministries and local authorities.
The supplements in question contained red yeast rice, also known as “beni koji,” an ingredient that has been used in various products for years. However, reports of health problems related to these supplements only surfaced in 2023. The company admitted to five deaths and 114 hospitalizations linked to their products, which were available without prescription at pharmacies. Some of these products were also exported to countries like China and Taiwan.
The Ministry of Health in Japan has attributed the deaths and illnesses to the supplements and has issued a warning that more people could be affected. The exact cause of the illnesses is still under investigation, with collaboration from government health authorities. However, reports suggest that kidney failure may be one of the potential risks associated with red yeast rice supplements.
In response to the incident, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical has recalled the affected health supplements containing red yeast rice and issued an apology for not acting sooner. The company sold about one million packages over the past three fiscal years, with some products being exported overseas as well.
The government’s review of the approval system for health products is ongoing, with a report expected in May. Meanwhile, a Chinese consumers association has advised consumers to avoid using Kobayashi products due to concerns about potential risks associated with red yeast rice supplements.
