Kobayashi Pharmaceuticals Reviews 76 Additional Fatalities Linked to Red Yeast Rice

Kobayashi Corporation is currently investigating an additional 76 deaths that have been linked to its red yeast rice supplements. Previously, the company had reported that 5 people had died after using their product, which is sold under the trade name “beni-koji cholesterol help.” However, after further investigation, it was found that only 4 of the 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.

Among the 76 new deaths under investigation, the patients had various underlying health conditions such as cancer, cerebral infarction, pneumonia, and aortic dissection. 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, the deaths may have been caused by chemicals produced during the processing of red yeast rice, specifically puberulic acid, a natural compound derived from blue mold found in the ingredients used. The company has received a significant number of inquiries, with over 22,000 questions being sent to them. A government hotline has been set up to address queries related to this issue, with more than 1,500 calls received thus far. The Food Safety Department of the Ministry of Health has clarified that the 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, the ministry is urging the public to notify authorities if they come across these products in the market, so that appropriate legal actions can be taken.