Two top executives at Japan’s Kobayashi Pharmaceutical are resigning amid an ongoing investigation into 80 deaths potentially linked to some of its products.
President Akihiro Kobayashi and chairman Kazumasa Kobayashi, both from the company’s founding family, have stepped down.
This decision aims “to clarify executive responsibility” regarding issues with its beni kōji fermented rice products, the company stated.
In March, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical recalled five products after receiving customer reports of kidney problems.
The investigation began when a doctor reported health issues in January, prompting the company to set up a customer advice hotline.
Affected customers reported symptoms such as changes in urine color, limb swelling, and fatigue.
The company later identified a potentially toxic acid produced by mould at one of its factories.
The board of directors expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and apologized to customers and business partners.
Satoshi Yamane, the head of sustainability policy, will take over as president.
Akihiro Kobayashi will remain with the company to manage compensation arrangements, stating he wants to take responsibility for any harm caused.
Beni kōji, made by fermenting rice with monascus purpureus (a reddish-purple mould), is marketed as a health supplement for high cholesterol and blood pressure and is also used as a traditional food dye.
Source-BBC
