Raid on company

Deaths after ingesting yeast rice products in Japan

Five people have died in Japan after taking food supplements made from red yeast rice. More than 110 other people were taken to hospital. The health authorities have now searched the factory in question.

The Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Group had previously stated that puberulic acid had been detected in the food supplement and could be responsible for the health problems. This is a substance which, according to the Ministry of Health, can be toxic and is a natural compound from blue mold.

680 people have sought medical attention
The company has so far reported five deaths and more than 110 people who have had to be treated in hospitals. In addition, 680 people have consulted a doctor because of health problems. The head of the production department in Osaka apologized on Saturday, but would not comment on the details of the raid. The factory in Wakayama, where ingredients for the dietary supplements are produced, was also searched.

Factory closed
The factory was already closed in December. Red yeast rice was used in Chinese medicine as a remedy to treat heart problems. The red rice flour is said to be effective for increased blood lipid levels, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.