A major Japanese pharmaceutical company has recalled health supplements containing red yeast rice, a type of rice fermented with yeast.
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical said it supplies the ingredient to about 50 other companies around the world.
Three types of supplements containing red yeast rice were voluntarily recalled.
The move follows reports that some people developed kidney damage after consuming products containing the ingredient. It is said to have the effect of lowering bad cholesterol.
The Osaka-based pharmaceutical company said it produces 18.5 tons of red yeast rice annually, with 80% supplied to about 50 food and beverage companies.
According to the company, it appears that neither company has received any reports of health issues from customers, but two companies are issuing voluntary recalls.
Takara Shuzo, a major beverage manufacturer, is recalling its sake “Mio Premium Rosé.”
Online vendor Zero Plus has brought back cheese crackers made with red yeast rice.
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical apologized and called on people to stop using products containing red yeast rice.
