By D. Maan, Jadetimes News
Two Top Executives of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Resign Amid Investigation into 80 Deaths
Two top officials of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, a Japanese drug manufacturer, President Akihiro Kobayashi and Chairman Kazumasa Kobayashi, both members of the founding family, have resigned in view of ongoing investigation over the deaths of 80 people that might be linked to some of its products.
The company announced the resignations to "clarify executive responsibility" over an issue linked to its beni kōji fermented rice products. In March, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical recalled five of its products after customers reported kidney problems. The investigation had begun when a doctor alerted the company in January to reports of health problems following consumption of beni kōji. It also set up a hotline for customer inquiries.
The changes in the color of urine, swelling of limbs, and continued fatigue noted by the affected consumers. Further investigations revealed a possibly poisonous acid being produced by mold at one of the factories of the company.
We pray for those who died and offer condolences to the bereaved families," said the board of directors. Also, the board issued a deep apology to customers and business partners. The company's head of sustainability policy, Satoshi Yamane, will become the new president.
Although he is resigning, Akihiro Kobayashi will stay on at the company to oversee compensation arrangements, saying he wants to atone for hurting customers.
Beni koji is a rice fermented with the reddish purple mould monascus purpureus and is sold as a health supplement against high cholesterol and blood pressure. It is also used as a food dye.
