Kobayashi Pharmaceutical’s red yeast health food caused 5 deaths and more than 100 illnesses.JapanThe Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said today (29th) that the disease-causing product contains Penicillium pilosa (puberulic acid), which is highly toxic, but its effect on the kidneys is currently unknown.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare explained that Penicillium hirsutum is a natural compound derived from Penicillium and was not included intentionally. However, it is not clear how it was mixed into the product in question, but it is highly toxic.

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical confirmed that only products with specific batch numbers were inspected for this substance. Since it is unclear whether Penicillium pilosa is the cause of the disease, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical and the Japanese government will conduct animal experiments to evaluate its toxicity.

Executive director Yamashita said at a news conference that a comprehensive inspection of the Wakayama Prefecture factory’s production lines was being conducted for Penicillium and the possibility of adulteration of products.

International(tagstotranslate)Japan