Japanese health officials raided a factory producing health supplements on Saturday, asserting that these products caused at least five deaths and hospitalized more than 100 others. About 10 individuals in dark suits participated in the raid at the "Osaka" facility, owned by Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, which was extensively covered by Japanese media, including NHK. The company stated that the exact cause of the illnesses, which include kidney failure, remains unknown. An investigation into the products is ongoing in collaboration with government health authorities.
The strain "Penicillium," a type of red mold, is used in the production of all dietary supplements. It is said that these pink pills, produced by Kobayashi Pharmaceutical and called "Penikogi Cholesterol Help," assist in lowering cholesterol levels. Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, based in Osaka, Japan, reported that approximately one million packages were sold over the past three years. Penikogi was also sold to other manufacturers, and some products were exported. It is noted that dietary supplements can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription.
Reports of health issues have emerged in 2023, despite the use of Penikogi in various products for years. The company’s president, Akihiro Kobayashi, apologized for not acting promptly. The recall came on March 22, two months after the company received official medical reports regarding the issue. On Friday, the company stated that five people had died and 114 were receiving treatment in hospitals after consuming the products. The Japanese Ministry of Health claims that the dietary supplements are responsible for the fatalities and illnesses and warned that the number of affected individuals could rise.
