Consumer Watchdog Calls Out Companies for Misleading Rice Cooker Claims

Four companies, including Nitori Co., have been called out by Japan's consumer watchdog for making misleading claims about their rice cookers' ability to reduce carbohydrate content. The Consumer Affairs Agency has submitted administrative orders to the companies, asking them to take measures to prevent a recurrence. The companies advertised that their rice cookers could reduce carbohydrate content by up to 33-59%, claiming that the rice would have a similar texture to rice cooked in a normal rice cooker while significantly reducing carbohydrates. However, an investigation by the agency revealed that rice cooked using the carbohydrate-cut function actually absorbed more water, increasing the total weight of the rice and only reducing the proportion of carbohydrates. Nitori Co. has stated that they will take the corrective measure seriously and strive to prevent a recurrence. The company has reportedly discontinued sales of the rice cookers in question. Consumers should be cautious of misleading claims and rely on accurate information when making purchasing decisions.