Kobayashi Corporation is currently under investigation for 76 additional deaths that have been linked to its red yeast rice supplements. Previously, the company had reported five deaths after using their product, which is sold under the trade name “beni-koji cholesterol help.” However, further investigation revealed that only four of these deaths were directly linked to the supplement, with one person not having consumed the product at all. These deaths were all attributed to impaired kidney function, with the majority of the deceased being between the ages of 40 and 69 and a higher percentage being women.
The Ministry of Health has taken note of these incidents and is continuing its investigation. Families of the affected individuals have been in contact with the company and will be working alongside the Ministry for further analysis. Minister of Health, Labor, and Welfare Keizo Takemi criticized Kobayashi Corporation for their delayed reporting of the incident and announced that the ministry will take over the investigation.
According to Kobayashi Corporation, these deaths may have been caused by chemicals produced during processing red yeast rice specifically puberulic acid, a natural compound derived from blue mold found in ingredients used. The company has received a significant number of inquiries, with over 22 thousand questions sent to them. A government hotline has been set up to address queries related to this issue with more than 1500 calls received thus far. The Food Safety Department of Ministry of Health has clarified that products in question have not been licensed for circulation in Vietnam and advises against purchasing them through social networks or carrying them by hand.
Overall, it’s essential for anyone who comes across these products in marketplaces to notify authorities so appropriate legal actions can be taken.
