🚨 **Breaking Health News:** Japan's Kobayashi Pharmaceutical is under intense scrutiny as health concerns linked to their red yeast rice supplement, known as beni-koji, continue to rise. 🏥
Following reports of five deaths and over 100 hospitalizations, Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) and the Wakayama prefectural government conducted on-site inspections at Kobayashi's factory in Wakayama on Sunday. This marks the second consecutive day of inspections, with the first focusing on the Osaka factory.
The suspect product, Beni-koji Choleste Help, was marketed to lower LDL cholesterol levels. It was originally produced at Kobayashi's Osaka factory, which shut down in December 2023, before moving production of raw materials to the Wakayama facility.
Health officials uncovered an unintended component called puberulic acid, derived from blue mold, in the supplements. While this substance is a potent antibacterial and antimalarial agent, its impact on health risks or potential kidney damage remains unclear. ❓
Since its launch in February 2021, Choleste Help has sold around 1 million packages. However, the company has faced criticism for its slow response to the emerging health issues, taking about two months from initial reports to announce voluntary recalls. 📉
The recall has now expanded nationwide, affecting a variety of products including sake, confectionery, bread, and miso. Additionally, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical had supplied the fermented rice to 52 manufacturers, amplifying the reach of the affected products.
As nearly 700 individuals seek medical advice or plan to do so, the pressure mounts on Kobayashi Pharmaceutical to ensure consumer safety and regain public trust. Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story. 🔍✨
