
"Japanese Authorities Investigate Health Supplement Factories After 7 Deaths"
Japanese authorities raided a drug factory in Osaka after a health supplement, Benikoji Choleste Help, was linked to at least five deaths and 114 hospitalizations. The supplement, containing benikoji, a type of red mold, is said to lower cholesterol levels. The company, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co., has recalled the pills and is cooperating with the government's investigation into the illnesses, which include kidney failure. Japan's Health Ministry has warned that the number of affected individuals could increase.