Taiwan Consumer Protection Association Sues Kobayashi Pharmaceutical for Red Yeast Rice-Related Health Issues
Taipei, Taiwan – A consumer advocacy group in Taiwan has filed a lawsuitagainst Kobayashi Pharmaceutical and its subsidiaries, seeking compensation for individuals who suffered health problems after consuming products containing red yeast rice. The lawsuit, filed by the Taiwan Consumer Protection Association (TCPA), demands approximately 770 million Japanese yen (approximately 170 million New Taiwan dollars) in damages.
The lawsuit stems from aseries of reports in Taiwan linking the consumption of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical’s red yeast rice products to kidney and other health issues. The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) has received 69 reports of such adverse reactions as of September 20, 2023.
The TCPA claims that 55 consumers experienced health problems after consuming Kobayashi Pharmaceutical’s red yeast rice products. The lawsuit names Kobayashi Pharmaceutical’s Taiwanese subsidiary, importers, and other related companies as defendants.
We hope that Kobayashi Pharmaceutical will take responsibility for its corporate actions and legal obligations, said a TCPA lawyer. We want to ensure that consumers who have suffered harm or damage receive compensation.
The lawsuit highlights the growing concerns surrounding the safety of red yeast rice products. While red yeast rice is atraditional ingredient used in Asian cuisine, its use as a dietary supplement has come under scrutiny due to potential health risks.
This lawsuit marks a significant development in the ongoing controversy surrounding red yeast rice products in Taiwan. It remains to be seen how the Taiwanese courts will rule on the case and what impact the outcome will have onthe future of red yeast rice products in the region.
References:
- NHK World Japan: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/zh/news/k10014594261000/
- Taiwan Food and Drug Administration: https://www.fda.gov.tw/
- Taiwan Consumer Protection Association: https://www.cpc.org.tw/
Views: 0