Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Company’s Recalled Red Yeast Rice Product Linked to 5 Deaths in Japan: Food Safety Department Urges Caution and Reporting

The Food Safety Department (Ministry of Health) has announced that it has not issued a circulation license for Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Company’s red yeast rice product, which has been linked to 5 deaths in Japan. A representative of the Food Safety Department stated that information about the company’s recalled products causing deaths and hospitalizations has raised concerns in Japan.

After reviewing the situation, the Food Safety Department confirmed that it has not issued a certificate of registration or compliance for Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Company’s products including Beni-koji choleste-help, Naishi-help plus cholesterol, Natto-kinase sarasara-tsubu gold and Kobayashi Naishi Help 30. These products were recalled by the company at the end of March due to reported hospitalizations associated with their use.

The Department of Food Safety warned consumers not to purchase or use these products and to report any sightings of these products on the market to the authorities. As of April 1st, a total of 157 people had been hospitalized and 5 deaths reported after taking supplements from Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Company. Japanese officials are still investigating the case and have not reached a final conclusion.

The company found puberulic acid, a natural compound derived from green mold, in their beni-koji production which is believed to be toxic. It is important for consumers to be cautious and informed about the products they are using and to report any suspicious products to the authorities for further investigation.