Japan investigates mass recall due to 'toxic' rice

The Japanese government is launching an investigation surrounding a recent scandal connected to the sale of toxic rice for human consumption, it has been reported.

Mikasa, a food company based in Osaka, recently admitted that it had sold around 400 tonnes of rice to companies in Japan despite it being labeled unfit for human use and intended for use as fertilizer and glue.

The rice, which was imported from Vietnam and China, is said to have been sold to food companies over a five-year period.

Asahi, Japan's largest brewing company is among the firms recalling rice-based products in fear of product contamination.

Nobutaka Machimura, chief spokesman for the government, explained: "At the moment there have been no reports of health damage because the density of pesticide residues. But it is a serious problem that products unfit for consumption were eaten at places like hospitals."

This scandal comes as Japan today chose its next prime minister, Taro Aso - the country's third prime minister in as many years.