We have been receiving a great number of inquiries about the safety of Nattokinase products in relation to the recall of Kobayashi Pharmaceutical’s products containing red yeast rice announced on March 22, because “Nattokinase Sarasara Tsubu GOLD,” a product that combines Nattokinase and red yeast rice, was included in the recalled products.　 This product was subject to recall because it contained red yeast rice ingredients that were confirmed to contain ingredients not anticipated by the company, however, it is not related to the Nattokinase contained in the product.

Nattokinase is an enzyme produced by bacillus subtilis var. natto during the fermentation of soybeans, and is also found in the food, natto (fermented soybeans). It is safe to consume because it is derived from the food that have been familiar since ancient times in Japan.

In addition, Bacillus subtilis var. natto is a different type of bacteria from Monascus purpureus, and does not produce the ingredients produced by Monascus purpureus. Not only confirming the safety of products through food history, we conduct various safety tests, including human studys, to further ensure the safety of products. Therefore, we would like to explain that Nattokinase products that do not contain the red yeast rice ingredient and has been the subject of media attention are not related to the recall issue.

We hope that this information will be useful and that the current situation will be quickly resolved.