By V.E.K.Madhushani, Jadetimes News
Leadership Shakeup as Company Faces Scrutiny Over Patient Safety Concerns
Two top executives at Japanese drugmaker Kobayashi Pharmaceutical have resigned as the company investigates 80 deaths potentially linked to some of its products. President Akihiro Kobayashi and Chairman Kazumasa Kobayashi, both from the company's founding family, stepped down to "clarify executive responsibility" over the issue involving its beni kōji fermented rice products.
In March, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical recalled five products after receiving customer reports of kidney problems. The investigation began in January following a doctor's alert about reported health issues. The company also established a hotline for customer inquiries.
Affected customers reported symptoms including changes in urine color, limb swelling, and fatigue. The company later identified a potentially toxic acid produced by mould at one of its factories as a possible cause.
The board of directors expressed condolences to the bereaved families and apologized to customers and business partners. Satoshi Yamane, the head of sustainability policy, will assume the role of president. Akihiro Kobayashi will remain with the company to oversee compensation arrangements.
Beni kōji, rice fermented with the reddish purple mould monascus purpureus, is marketed as a health supplement for high cholesterol and blood pressure and is also used as a traditional food dye.
