In the wake of a recent recall of Japanese health supplements, the toll has been devastating, with five fatalities and over 100 individuals hospitalized as of Friday.
Criticism has been directed at Osaka-based Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co. for its delayed disclosure of internal issues dating back to January, despite the first public announcement made only on March 22.
The company disclosed that 114 individuals are currently undergoing treatment in hospitals after consuming products, such as Benikoji Choleste Help, aimed at reducing cholesterol levels, which contain benikoji, a red mold species. Initially, two deaths were reported earlier in the week.
Instances of kidney problems among consumers have been noted, though the exact cause remains under investigation in collaboration with government laboratories, as stated by the manufacturer.
President Akihiro Kobayashi conveyed profound apologies during a press briefing on Friday, expressing regret to the victims and their families, as well as to the wider health food industry and medical professionals. The company pledged efforts to prevent further harm and enhance crisis management protocols.
Numerous products, including miso paste, crackers, and vinegar dressing, containing benikoji have been recalled, with Japan’s health ministry publishing a comprehensive list of affected items on its official website, including those employing benikoji for food coloring.
Warnings from the ministry suggest that the death toll could rise, as the supplements were available over-the-counter at drug stores, potentially purchased or exported prior to the recall, including by uninformed tourists.
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical had a history of selling benikoji products for years, with millions of packages sold in recent fiscal years, but issues arose with supplements manufactured in 2023. The company reported producing 18.5 tons of benikoji last year.
Some analysts attribute the incident to recent deregulation initiatives aimed at streamlining approval processes for health products to stimulate economic growth.
