The China Consumers Association has issued a warning urging consumers to immediately stop using Japanese supplements containing red yeast rice, following reports of deaths and hospitalizations in Japan. 🌡️ While the products aren't officially sold in the Chinese mainland, they may have been purchased via cross-border e-commerce platforms or overseas stores.
What's the Risk?
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, the Osaka-based maker of the supplements, admitted its "beni-koji" (red yeast rice) products are linked to multiple deaths and over 100 hospitalizations. 😷 The company has initiated a voluntary recall of three affected products. Customers are advised to seek refunds through platforms or contact Kobayashi's China customer service.
A Scandal of Delayed Disclosure? ⏳
Critics accuse the company of waiting months to go public after identifying issues in January. Japanese physician Dr. Eiji Kusumi told China Media Group the delay might have prioritized "brand protection over public safety." Rebuilding trust, he said, will be an "arduous task" for the firm.
⚠️ The "Functional Food" Loophole
Dr. Kusumi also highlighted Japan's lax regulations: supplements labeled as "functional food" don't require government approval, potentially misleading consumers. 🚫 Despite claims about cholesterol benefits, he stressed there's no scientific proof these supplements work as advertised. "From a physician's view, it's not appropriate," he said.
🩺 The association urges affected consumers to monitor their health and consult doctors if symptoms arise.
