In Japan, the Kobayashi Company has issued a recall of several health supplement brands that contain the ingredient ‘benikoji’ after reports of kidney-related complaints from customers. The Japanese government ordered the recall following two deaths and over 100 hospitalizations that were suspected to be linked to the supplements.
The red yeast rice, also known as ‘benikoji,’ is believed to be the cause of the health issues. Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, based in Osaka, is investigating the potential connection between their products and adverse effects on kidneys. The ingredient Monascus purpureus, a red mould commonly used as a food coloring, is found in the recalled supplements.
In addition to Kobayashi’s products, over 40 other brands containing benikoji have also been recalled. These include items like miso paste, crackers, and vinegar dressing. Health Minister Keizo Takemi has urged Kobayashi Pharmaceutical to provide information promptly and has collected data on potential health damage caused by the supplements.
Kobayashi Company advises its customers to discontinue using its products and refrain from using them in the future. An official from the ministry warned that there may be more victims in the coming days and advised everyone to avoid benikoji, especially those with pre-existing health conditions. Red yeast rice is an alternative to statins for lowering cholesterol levels; however, medical studies caution about its risks of organ damage depending on its composition. Though it is unclear if any of the ingredients were imported into Japan for this incident marks the first significant recall of a domestically produced health supplement in Japan
