To: Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, Co., Ltd.
Consumers Union of Japan (NPO)
Co-Chairperson: Ado Kameyama
Co-Chairperson Miyoko Sasaki
Co-Chairperson Martin J. Frid
Open letter of enquiry on red rice yeast functional foods
Your products made from beni kouji red rice yeast have caused health problems for many users, and we believe that this incident highlights the problems with functional foods and genetic modification (GMO). We are concerned that GMO can cause unexpected genetic changes, leading to the production of harmful substances. We therefore invite you to respond to the following questions. We would appreciate your answers in writing by 19 April. We will publish these questions and answers.
NOTES.
1. We have information that your company’s red rice yeast is exposed to strong ultraviolet light to improve its productivity, but have you investigated the genetic changes caused by UV treatment?
2, Your company was calling for technology proposals in 2020 that include genome editing of filamentous fungi and actinomycetes such as red yeast rice. Has your company adopted genome editing technology as a result? If so, which genes have you modified?
3, Your company has reported that your red rice yeast has no citrinin production capacity, but have you investigated the production capacity of other mould poisons, etc.?
4, You say that puberulic acid was detected in the product, but did you investigate in advance whether the strain of red yeast rice owned by your company has the ability to produce puberulic acid?
5. With regard to the health hazards caused by red rice yeast, please explain why it took a considerable amount of time from the time you became aware of the incident to the announcement and response. This ultimately led to an increase in damage to consumers. What do you think of the responsibility for this? Also, will you continue to produce and sell functional foods and other health foods in the future?
6. We believe that what consumers need to improve their health is a nutritionally balanced diet and that health foods are not necessary, but what are your views on this?
Japanese Open Letter here
CNN: Japan recalls ‘red rice’ health products over suspected link to five deaths
The Guardian: Japan dietary supplement recalled amid investigation into two deaths and 100 hospitalisations
Taipei Times: Japanese red yeast rice supplements recalled over kidney risk
