Residents in Nago City, Okinawa, Japan were alarmed when a port in their area turned a blood-red color, prompting an apology from Orion Breweries, a local beer factory, BBC reports.
The brewery explained that the unusual color was caused by a leak of food coloring dye into a nearby river, emphasizing that it did not pose any health risks. However, they expressed remorse for the inconvenience and worry caused to the residents.
On social media, some locals described the crimson waters as "gruesome," while others likened it to something "venomous." The leaked dye is believed to contain propylene glycol, a substance commonly used to absorb excess water. US health authorities consider it "generally recognized as safe" for food use.
Reports indicate that the leak originated from one of the brewery's cooling systems and occurred on Tuesday. By approximately 9:30 local time, the leak was successfully sealed, preventing further discharge into the river through rain gutters. Orion Breweries' President, Hajime Murano, stated that an investigation was underway to determine the cause of the leak and that measures would be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Nago is renowned for its pineapple farms in addition to its fishing activities. Orion Breweries is known for producing a lager with the same name, which is famous for its mild flavor. The beer has become a signature beverage in tropical Okinawa, distinguishing it from the rest of mainland Japan.
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