Japan Recalls Red Yeast Rice Supplements After 2 Deaths, 100+ Hospitalizations

• Nationwide recall in Japan of dietary supplement "beni koji choleste help" due to links to 2 deaths and 100+ hospitalizations

• Ingredient red yeast rice ("beni koji") is made by fermenting rice and said to lower cholesterol

• Osaka-based manufacturer Kobayashi Pharmaceutical issued voluntary recall after customer complaints about kidney problems

• Second death reported to health ministry; total suspected deaths now 2 with 106 linked hospitalizations

• Kobayashi supplied red yeast rice ingredient to ~50 other firms in Japan and 2 in Taiwan; products removed from circulation