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K-COR: 2023-9-13 KosherGram

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2023-9-13 KosherGram PDF

PAS YISROEL – Part II: [See previous Pas Yisroel information in 8/31/23 KosherGram]

  • ESS IN is added to the list of K-COR establishments that are totally Pas Yisroel.
  • LILLY’S BABKA, RUGELACH and other cakes and cookies with an OU from Lilly’s Baking Company / Brooklyn Brands purchased until and including Erev Rosh Hashana (9/15/23) are Pas Yisroel. Product purchased after Rosh Hashana should not be considered Pas Yisroel.
  • S. ROSEN’S BREADS, BUNS AND ROLLS with an OU (available at Costco)  –  The following products are certified by the OU as Pas Yisroel: 100% Healthy Multi Grain Bread, 9 Grain Bread, Sour Dough Bread, County White Bread, Hawaiian Rolls. Other S. Rosen’s products with an OU are Pas Yisroel per the glow-bar method*, including Deli Style Brioche Buns that bears an ink-jetted OU symbol next to the Best If Used By date.
  • NATURAL OVENS BAKERY KETO-FRIENDLY WHITE BREAD with an OU ink jetted on the individually wrapped loaves (available at Costco) is Pas Yisroel.

* an electrical heating element turned on by the Mashgiach, which most Kashrus agencies consider Pas Yisroel. The OU, however, does not accept this as Pas Yisroel, based on the psak of Rabbi Yisroel Belsky zt’l.

DISH KOSHER CUISINE: Effective immediately, Dish Kosher Cuisine is no longer certified by the Council of Orthodox Rabbis of Greater Detroit. 

LEROUX LIQUEURS: Following the acquisition of the Leroux liqueur brand by Phillips Distilling Company, Leroux liqueurs will no longer be certified, and new bottles do not bear the OU symbol. Check each bottle. Consumers who wish to express their desire for Kosher certification can contact the company at: orders@phillipsdistilling.com .

New MOUNTAIN DEW PITCH BLACK FCB Limited Edition Slurpee syrup is Kosher and pareve (no symbol required). The label on the syrup box in the back must be checked to verify the brand and flavor. 

 

                                                                                       RECALLS

TRADER JOE’S MULTIGRAIN CRACKERS WITH SUNFLOWER AND FLAX SEEDS with “Best If Used By Dates” between 03 01 24 and 03 05 24 have been recalled due to pieces of metal found in the product. Details are available at https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2023/08/trader-joes-crackers-recalled-over-metal-found-in-product/ or 626-599-3817.

PARENT’S CHOICE brand SENSITIVITY PREMIUM INFANT FORMULA and TIPPY TOES brand SENSITIVITY PREMIUM INFANT FORMULA with specific codes have been recalled due to an inadvertent release of rejected product to the market. Details are available at Infant formula recalled because of an inadvertent release of rejected product | Food Safety News .

We Wish All a K’siva v’Chasima Tova

K-COR: 2023-8-31 KosherGram

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2023-8-31 KosherGram PDF

PAS YISROEL: The K-COR wishes to remind consumers of the accepted custom to be stringent on Pas Yisroel during Aseres Yemei T’shuva. Please be advised that many K-COR certified establishments produce or sell some bread and cake products that are not Pas Yisroel. Please ask the Mashgiach or call the K-COR office for details regarding specific establishments. 

  • The following establishments are totally Pas Yisroel: BAKE STATION, DAKOTA BREAD COMPANY, ZEMAN’S, JERUSALEM PIZZA, PIZZA STOP, ESS IN, PRIME 10, SPREADS BAGELS & CAFÉ, SOUL CAFÉ RESTAURANT, KAPLAN CAKES, and YODELS ‘N MORE.  At THE GROVE FRESH BAKERY dept., all items that are sold loose, or repackaged with a Grove label, are Pas Yisroel.
  • KORDAS’ BREADS, ROLLS, AND BUNS from Metropolitan Baking Co. bearing the K-COR symbol are Pas  Yisroel*, except for Kordas’ Greek Style Pita Bread which is not Kosher certified  and should have the      K-COR symbol on the back covered with a sticker.

[NOTE: Milano Bakery bread and rolls with the K-COR symbol are not Pas Yisroel.]

  • SIMPLY NATURE KNOCK YOUR SPROUTS OFF SPROUTED 7 GRAIN BREAD at Aldi with an OK symbol is Pas Yisroel*.
  • SPECIALLY SELECTED brand SMALL BATCH SOURDOUGH LOAF, SMALL BATCH ITALIAN LOAF, ITALIAN BREAD and any other Specially Selected breads at Aldi bearing a Scroll K symbol are Pas Yisroel. [Note that some Specially Selected breads bear other symbols and may not be Pas Yisroel.]
  • TRADER JOE’S brand of CHOCOLATE BROOKLYN BABKA and HALF MOON COOKIES that bear OU Pareve are Pas Yisroel. 
  • TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC FRENCH ROLLS and TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC FRENCH BAGUETTE that bear MK certification [Montreal] are Pas Yisroel*.
  • TRADER JOE’S CHALLAH – BRAIDED EGG BREAD with an Earth K symbol is Pas Yisroel, as stated on the label.

      [NOTE: Trader Joe’s Sprouted Wheat Sourdough Bread and Sprouted Wheat Multigrain Bread bearing a Star-K are not      Pas Yisroel.]

  • GOLDBERGS FINE FOODS CHALLAH TWIN PACK TRADITIONAL with an OK symbol (available at Costco) is Pas Yisroel, as stated on the label. 
  • S. ROSEN’S BREADS, BUNS AND ROLLS with an OU (available at Costco) are Pas Yisroel*.
  • KRONOS PITA BREAD with a cRc symbol is Pas Yisroel*, as stated on the label.
  • FOOD FOR LIFE EZEKIEL SPROUTED GRAIN BREADS with the Kof-K symbol are Pas Yisroel*. The Pocket Bread, however, is not Pas Yisroel.
  • MATT’S BAKERY COOKIES that bear OK Pareve are “Pas Yisroel”*, as stated on the label.

   * per the “glow-bar method” [an electrical heating element turned on by the Mashgiach], which most Kashrus agencies consider Pas Yisroel. (The OU, however, does not accept this as Pas Yisroel, based on the psak of Rabbi Yisroel Belsky zt’l.)

                                 

HONEY: 

  • Standard honey goes through a filtering process, which removes the non-Kosher bee parts. Even “raw and unfiltered” honey is usually strained to remove the bee parts. However, some completely unprocessed honeys are neither filtered nor strained. If the label or the manufacturer states that the honey is not strained, or if bee parts are visible, that honey should be avoided.
  • “Forest honey”, “Honeydew honey”, and “Beechwood honey” (or honey named after other types of trees such as Pine, Fir, Oak, etc.), generally refer to honey produced by bees that have consumed the non-Kosher excretions of aphids and scale insects left on trees (as opposed to standard honey produced from flower nectar). These are not considered Kosher according to some opinions, and should be avoided. Melipona honey should also be avoided.
  • “Royal Jelly” is a bee product that, unlike regular honey, is an actual secretion of the bee. Some Poskim therefore rule that it is not included in the permitted category of “honey”, and it should be avoided.

FISH HEADS: 

  • The Farmed Trout fish heads now being sold at Superior Kosher Meats are completely fresh water raised, and do not need to be checked for lice.
  • Rainbow Trout from Norway are heavily infested, and require thorough cleaning and checking [see below].

The following is from New Square Kashrus Council:

  • White fish: White fish heads are free of infestation concern.
  • Salmon/Baby Salmon: Salmon heads [even farm raised] are commonly infested with salmon lice (brownish parasites ranging in size from approximately 1-3 cm).

             ·   The entire gills must be removed. (It may be easier to first cut the head in half before cleaning).

             ·   Rinse the head thoroughly with water while rubbing all surfaces of the head (inside and outside), including all cracks, crevices and folds, and under and around the tongue. Inspect the head to make sure it is clean.

One who wants to avoid the checking process may just rinse the head and cook the head in a separate pot, take a small piece from the flesh of the head, and visually inspect it before eating to make sure there is no foreign object on it. 

  • Carp: Carp heads may be infested with very small transparent insects called Argulus that are very hard to detect. There is no known method to clean infested carp heads properly, and they should not be used unless checked by an expert.

BLACK EYED PEAS are often infested and require careful checking. The following is based on the Star-K procedure for checking dried, canned or frozen black eyed peas, and applies even if the product bears Kashrus certification. (Note: All canned peas and beans always require Kashrus certification, for general Kashrus concerns.) 

  • Dried black eyed peas should first be boiled in water. After they have been fully cooked, turn off the flame and allow them to soak in the water for 2-3 hours.  The peas will swell and the peel will become translucent. Then check as below.
  • Canned or frozen black eyed peas may be checked straight out of the can/bag; there is no need to boil or soak.
  • To check (all types): Take the black eyed peas and inspect for holes or dark-colored stains, as this may indicate an insect beneath the thin peel.  If there is a dark spot on the peel, remove the thin skin and check if there is a cavity with a bug in it. (The black “eye” spot is not a sign of infestation.  Similarly, orange colored stains on the surface are not signs of infestation; only dark or black stains are of concern.)

[Note: For those who prefer not to rely on checking, some Poskim advise that the Rosh Hashana simanim custom can be fulfilled without eating the item, by placing it on the table and looking at it.]

                                  

DOLE GARDEN SALAD: Some 12 oz. bags sold recently at The Grove and other stores do not bear an OK symbol, due to an infestation issue. Check each bag. All Dole Salads always need to be checked for the OK symbol on each bag.

OASIS MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE TABOULE SALAD is currently not Star-K certified, and the Star-K symbol on the label is covered with a sticker.

VERNORS BLACK CHERRY GINGER SODA – LIMITED EDITION, available in Michigan and the Toledo, Ohio area, is Kosher and pareve (no symbol required).

JALAPENO SEASONED PISTACHIOS from Vacaville Fruit Company – Update from Star-K:  This product correctly bears a Star-K symbol and is certified Pareve; it does not contain any dairy. 

KRINOS FETA CHEESE produced in Greece bears an unauthorized Kof-K symbol. Product with a production date of Jan. 1, 2023 and beyond should be considered non–Kosher regardless of it bearing a Kof-K symbol. Anyone who finds this item is requested to notify the Kof-K office at 201-837-0500 #2143. 

SECRET ISLAND SALMON HOT DOGS, sold online, bear an unauthorized Kof-K symbol. This product is not Kosher.

STRONGER SNACKS PROTEIN SNACKS bear an unauthorized Star-K or Star-D symbol. Stronger Snacks is not certified by Star-K or Star-D.

SHIN GOLD YAKI SUSHI NORI ROASTED SEAWEED distributed by BNT Int’l Trading bears an unauthorized Star-K symbol.

PASTENE brand PICKLED VEGETABLES GIARDINIERA bears an unauthorized KVH symbol.

PRODUCT RECALLS

“SOFT SERVE ON THE GO” ICE CREAM and SORBET CUPS from Real Kosher Ice Cream of Brooklyn, NY, all flavors, have been recalled due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, that has been linked to two hospitalizations. Details are available at https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-listeria-ice-cream-august-2023#Product  or  845-668-4346.

ICE CREAM HOUSE brand ICE CREAM and SORBET products have been recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Details are available at https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ice-cream-house-voluntarily-recalling-all-dairy-ice-cream-products-and-non-dairy-parve-frozen or 845-445-7644.

KROGER brand frozen SUPER SWEET CUT CORN and frozen MIXED VEGETABLES  have been recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Details are available at https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/twin-city-foods-inc-recalls-frozen-super-sweet-corn-and-mixed-vegetables-because-possible-health?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery or 360-629-5678.

NESTLÉ TOLL HOUSE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH “break and bake” bars with two specific batch codes have been recalled due to the potential presence of wood fragments. Details are available at https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/nestle-usa-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-nestler-toll-houser-chocolate-chip-cookie#recall-photos  or  800-681-1678.

                           We Wish All a K’siva v’Chasima Tova

      

K-COR: 2023-7-25 KosherGram

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2023-7-25 KosherGram PDF

THE CHODOSH SEASON is fast approaching for Oats, Spring Wheat and Barley. Chodosh Oats may be on the market in the beginning of August, and Spring Wheat and Barley shortly thereafter. Those who want to purchase Yoshon items to store over the Chodosh season should do so now. Please note that all grain and flour products that will be stored should be refrigerated to avoid insect infestation.

RITA’S ITALIAN ICE & FROZEN CUSTARD OF FARMINGTON HILLS at 11 Mile & Middlebelt is under supervision of the Vaad Harabbonim / Council of Orthodox Rabbis of Greater Detroit, as Dairy non-Cholov Yisroel. Many flavors of the Italian Ices contain only pareve ingredients, but may contain traces of dairy; a list is posted at the store. Cream Ices are Dairy.

ICE CREAM and FROZEN YOGURT STORES often claim that they are Kosher and may post Kosher certification letters, which leads consumers to believe that the store and its products are under supervision. In fact, in most cases, the letters refer only to specific products or ingredients which are factory produced under supervision, and are certified only when in their original sealed packaging bearing Kosher marking. Once the unsupervised store opens the packaging, the certification is no longer valid. Unless the consumer verifies that there is actual on-site reliable Rabbinical supervision of the entire individual retail store, no ice cream, yogurt, syrups or toppings should be considered Kosher except for those in their original sealed containers bearing a reliable Kosher certification.

The following are some stores in our area that are not under supervision: Clark’s Ice Cream and Yogurt, Haagen-Dazs, Menchie’s, Oberweis, and TCBY.

It is always preferable to buy at fully supervised stores. Locally, soft serve Cholov Yisroel ice cream is available at Jerusalem Pizza and Soul Cafe. Hard pack Cholov Yisroel ice cream is available at Spreads Bagels & Café. Hard pack non-Cholov Yisroel ice cream and yogurt is available at Baskin-Robbins/Dunkin’ Donuts at 10 Mile & Greenfield in Oak Park (which is K-COR certified for all products). Packaged Cholov Yisroel ice cream is available at The Grove Kosher Market and Lincoln Liquor.

If it is necessary to purchase hard pack ice cream or yogurt from an unsupervised store, the consumer should request and see a sealed container before it is opened, and check for the Kosher certification mark on the container. In addition, the scoop should be thoroughly washed.

Soft serve ice cream or yogurt should not be purchased from an unsupervised store, because of the inability to verify that Kosher mix was put into the machine. 

KORDAS’ brand BREADS, ROLLS AND BUNS from Metropolitan Baking Co. are K-COR certified and Pas Yisroel (glow-plug method), even if the label does not bear the K-COR symbol, except GREEK STYLE PITA BREAD which is presently not certified Kosher and should have the K-COR symbol on the back covered with a sticker. 

ROSEN’S DELI STYLE BRIOCHE BUNS (sold at Costco) bears an ink-jetted symbol similar to an OU next to the Best If Used By date. This product is in fact OU certified (and Pas Yisroel – glow-plug method).

DUM-DUMS LOLLIPOPS in all flavors are OU certified, and bear the OU symbol both on the outer bag and on each individual wrapper, except for the “Mystery Pop” flavor which does not have an OU on its wrapper, but is nevertheless OU certified. 

SPRING VALLEY POTATO BLINTZES with Lot # 1513MMR7831RE on the side of the box may actually contain cheese blintzes (non-Cholov Yisroel), and has been recalled from stores. If you have a package at home, check it before preparing it to be sure it is potato and not cheese.

COLONNA RANCH SEASONING contains milk and is certified OU Dairy, but mistakenly bears only a plain OU without a D.

BEST OF THAILAND HOISIN SAUCE bears an unauthorized MK / Manchester Beth Din symbol.

WILD SMOKED SOCKEYE SALMON from Tony’s Smokehouse & Cannery and ALASKA SMOKED SALMON from Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary bear an unauthorized KSA symbol. These products are not Kosher certified.

RECALLS 

TRADER JOE’S ALMOND WINDMILL COOKIES with Sell-By dates 10/19/23 through 10/21/23, and TRADER JOE’S DARK CHOCOLATE CHUNK and ALMOND COOKIES with Sell-By dates 10/17/23 through 10/21/23 have been recalled because they may contain rocks. Details are available at https://www.traderjoes.com/home/announcements?category=recalls&id=664277606 or 626-599-3817.

ROLLER BALL and ROLLER DIPPER CANDIES have been recalled after a choking incident with a 7 year old Lakewood boy, when the white ball inside detached and was swallowed. Details are available at https://lakewoodalerts.com/breaking-update-company-recalls-candy-after-7-year-old-lakewood-boy-chokes-on-it/

MARTINELLI’S GOLD MEDAL APPLE JUICE in 10 oz. apple shaped glass bottles has been recalled due to potential glass chips in the product. Details are available at Martinelli’s apple juice recalled over potential glass chips in the product | Food Safety News

NEWLY WEDS FOODS BATTER MIXES, BREADERS, SEASONING RUBS, MARINADES and more [commercial products] have been recalled due to possible Salmonella contamination. Details are available at https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2023/07/six-million-pounds-of-batters-breaders-seasoning-rubs-marinades-and-more-recalled-over-salmonella-concerns/

K-COR: 2023-6-30 KosherGram

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2023-6-30 KosherGram PDF

BELL PEPPERS and MINI PEPPERS of all colors, domestic and imported, have recently been found to have a high level of infestation on their exterior surface, especially around the stem. Kashrus agencies are recommending the following procedure:

  1.  Remove and discard the stem/crown section.
  2. Turn the pepper upside down and wash the entire surface, including the crevices and the bottom depression, under a strong stream of water while rubbing with one’s fingers.
  3.  If the crevices and/or the bottom depression are not entirely reachable, first cut the pepper at its length into four and then wash as described above. Alternatively, use a small brush while washing.
  4. Peppers should not be cooked, roasted, or eaten whole with the stem/crown section still attached.

THE FOLLOWING NEW SODAS are Kosher and pareve (no symbol required): 

  • MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA PASSIONFRUIT PUNCH
  • MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA CARIBBEAN SPLASH

THE FOLLOWING NEW LIMITED EDITION SODAS are Kosher and pareve and bear an OU on the bottle cap or engraved into the can lid:

  • COCA-COLA ULTIMATE – regular and Zero Sugar
  • SPRITE LYMONADE LEGACY with Strawberry Lemonade flavor [also bears an OU on the label] 

COCA-COLA, SPRITE and FANTA SODAS in 12 oz. glass bottles that say Product of Mexico are not certified and are not recommended.

Many TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC LOLLIPOPS that are offered locally to children at the checkout counters do not bear Kosher marking. Only those bearing the Kof-K symbol should be accepted as Kosher.

FRIENDLY FARMS ALMOND MILK, COCONUT MILK and OAT MILK sold at Aldi bear a plain OU on some containers and are pareve (mfd. at Plant # JP). Other containers bear OU-D and are dairy equipment (Plant # 18-388). Check each container carefully.                      

McCORMICK BUTTER EXTRACT With Other Natural Flavors is certified OU Dairy, but mistakenly bears only a plain OU without a D on some packages.

JALAPENO SEASONED PISTACHIOS from Vacaville Fruit Company mistakenly bears a Star-K symbol on the label and on the company website. This product contains small traces of dairy and should bear a Star-D (non-Cholov Yisroel).

TIDBITS MERINGUES COOKIES [Fun Bites] bear an unauthorized HKA symbol on some packages. In addition, any packages that bear an OU symbol are also unauthorized.

RECALLS 

The following “PRIVATE SELECTION” FROZEN FRUIT PRODUCTS sold at Kroger and Kroger operated stores with specific date codes have been recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Details are at https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/townsend-farms-inc-voluntarily-recalling-specific-frozen-fruit-products-because-possible-listeria  or 503-512-1317.  

  • CLASSIC FRUIT MEDLEY  UPC: 1111082026
  • TROPICAL MANGO CHUNKS  UPC: 1111084663
  • BLUEBERRIES STRAWBERRIES & MANGOES  UPC: 1111089623
  • STRAWBERRY MANGO & PINEAPPLE BLEND  UPC: 1111087853

FROZEN STRAWBERRIES – Potential Hepatitis A Virus contamination. Various brands, including in Michigan:  Great Value [Walmart] (including Sliced Strawberries and Mixed Fruit), Simply Nature [Aldi], and Made-With [Meijer Woodward Corner Market].  https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-hepatitis-virus-infections-frozen-strawberries-february-2023  

K-COR: 2023-6-7 KosherGram

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2023-6-7 KosherGram PDF

SUGAR SNAP PEAS and SNOW PEAS: Last year it was discovered that these are infested with thrips on the outside of the pods. Currently, there are various opinions among the Kashrus agencies regarding washed, unwashed and frozen types, with some not recommending their use, and others allowing them with certain washing procedures. Regarding unwashed types, at the very minimum the following procedure is required:

  1.  Agitate the snap/snow peas in soapy water for 30 seconds.
  2.  Let them soak in the soapy water for at least one minute.
  3.  Rinse very thoroughly under a strong stream of water.

THE FOLLOWING NEW SODAS are Kosher and pareve (no symbol required): 

  • MOUNTAIN DEW SUMMER FREEZE Limited Edition – regular and Zero Sugar
  • PEPSI X PEEPS Marshmallow Flavored Pepsi – Limited Edition
  • SUNKIST MANGO ORANGE
  • SUNKIST WATERMELON LEMONADE

THE FOLLOWING NEW SLURPEE SYRUPS are Kosher and pareve (no symbol required):

  • FANTA DRAGON FRUIT ZERO SUGAR FCB
  • FRUITWORKS LEMON CANDY FREEZE FCB

[Note: The flavor cards posted on the Slurpee machines in front cannot be relied upon to determine the Kosher status of the Slurpee, because they often do not show the correct brand and variety of the syrup that is actually in the machine. The above information is for the benefit of Kashrus Supervisors and consumers who inspect, with permission of store management, the labels on the 2.5 / 5 gal. bag-in-boxes of syrups in the back of the store, which feed the Slurpee machines.]

HARD MOUNTAIN DEW ZERO SUGAR MALT BEVERAGE in several flavors is Kosher when bearing the Star-K symbol.

JACK DANIEL’S TENNESSEE WHISKEY “MIXED WITH COCA-COLA” RTD [pre-mixed ready to drink in cans], regular and Zero Sugar, is certified OU pareve (even without OU symbol). However, Jack Daniels Whiskey products with “Cola”, without the “Coca-Cola” brand name (such as Whiskey & Cola, or Black Jack Cola), are not certified.

SNAPPLE ELEMENTS “FIRE” DRAGON FRUIT JUICE DRINK contains grape juice. It is not Kosher certified and does not bear an OK. Only those Snapple drinks that bear the OK symbol are Kosher. (Also check for their pareve / dairy status. A plain OK symbol indicates pareve;  OK-D = dairy;  OK-DE = dairy equipment.)

MARSHMALLOW FLUFF mfg. by Durkee-Mower, Inc. does not bear an OU symbol on some 16 oz. containers due to a printing error, but is still Kosher and pareve.

GERBER GOOD START “GENTLE SOY” INFANT FORMULA POWDER, Stage 1 and Stage 2, are certified Kosher and pareve when bearing the OU symbol. The “DE” next to the OU on some labels is a printing error; the product is pareve. [See also Recalls below.]

MILANO BAKERY BREAD and ROLLS, K-COR certified, are no longer Pas Yisroel.

BETTER MADE CORN POPS are no longer made by a Kosher manufacturer, and no longer bear an OU.

RED GOLD TOMATO KETCHUP in 1 oz. “DUNK” [dipping] CUPS, a Foodservice item, is not OU certified and does not bear an OU. Only Red Gold products that bear the OU symbol are OU certified.

BERKLEY COFFEE on 11 Mile Rd. is a non-Kosher establishment. No products can be considered Kosher unless they are in their original sealed packaging bearing a reliable certification. Bagels come unsealed from multiple sources and are not acceptable.

PEREG BASMATI BROWN RICE, all lot codes, has been recalled due to insect infestation in the rice shell, and cannot easily be checked or cleaned by the consumer. 

SHAHIA STUFFED VINE LEAVES, produced in Turkey and distributed by Lipari Foods /Tut’s International with a production code after 4/30/2020 (on the bottom of the can), bear an unauthorized Star-K symbol.

NATURE BLESSED frozen SLICED STRAWBERRIES, distributed by Coloma Frozen Foods, Coloma, MI, bear an unauthorized cRc symbol.

KRINOS brand MANOURI [Greek] CHEESE bears an unauthorized Kashrus symbol. 

FORRELLI GRAPE JELLY bears an unauthorized KVH symbol. This product is not Kosher.

GLUTINO GLUTEN FREE OVEN BAKED BARS in Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry Acai and Strawberry flavors bearing a Scroll K symbol mistakenly contain a non-Kosher filling in some packages. Details are at https://scrollk.org/alerts/glutino-products-with-non-kosher-filling/ .

SALENTO ORGANICS CHOCOLATE PRODUCTS bear an unauthorized Kosher Check symbol.

From Kashrut.com: FAKE KOSHER SYMBOLS designed to appear like Kosher symbols are being offered by fraudulent companies, many in Asia and particularly in India, that sell “certification” services but have no Rabbinical certification associated with them. One should not rely on a new symbol without verifying that it is from a reliable Kashrus agency. See many examples at https://www.kashrut.com/Alerts/?find=faux . 

RECALLS in recent months (with sources for details and further information)

GOLD MEDAL UNBLEACHED ALL PURPOSE FLOUR (5 lb. and 10 lb.) and GOLD MEDAL BLEACHED ALL PURPOSE FLOUR (2 lb. and 5 lb.) with Better if Used by Dates 27MAR2024 and 28MAR2024 – potential Salmonella Infantis.                 800-230-8103 / https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/general-mills-recalls-four-gold-medal-unbleached-and-bleached-all-purpose-flour-varieties-dated

FROZEN ORGANIC STRAWBERRIES – Potential Hepatitis A Virus contamination. Various brands, including in Michigan:       Simply Nature [Aldi], and Made-With [Meijer Woodward Corner Market].  https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-hepatitis-virus-infections-frozen-strawberries-february-2023  

TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC TROPICAL FRUIT BLEND – Potential Hepatitis A Virus contamination.             626-599-3817 /       https://www.traderjoes.com/home/announcements?category=recalls&id=175203194

TRADER JOE’S INSTANT COLD BREW COFFEE with Exp. date codes 6/13/2024, 11/26/2024 and 12/30/2024 – possible glass in product.   https://www.traderjoes.com/home/announcements?category=recalls&id=547485915 / 626-599-3817.

GERBER GOOD START “SOOTHEPRO” MILK BASED INFANT FORMULA POWDER – potential Cronobacter sakazakii bacteria. 

[Note: This formula is not Kosher certified, but may be Halachically permitted upon consultation with a Rav.]            800-777-7690 / 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/perrigo-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-gerberr-good-startr-sootheprotm-powdered-infant

MIGHTY SESAME ORGANIC TAHINI 10.9 oz. squeeze bottle with  Exp. date 9/25/23 – potential Salmonella contamination.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rushdi-foods-issues-voluntary-recall-one-lot-their-mighty-sesame-organic-tahini-109-oz-squeeze-0 /  718-369-4600.

LAY’S CLASSIC PARTY SIZE POTATO CHIPS (13 oz.) and LAY’S CLASSIC MIX AND MATCH POTATO CHIPS (15 5/8 oz.) – may contain dairy sour cream and onion potato chips.  https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/frito-lay-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-lays-classic-potato-chips-distributed-connecticut  / 800-352-4477. 

Post-Pesach 5783 Information – Detroit Area

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CHOMETZ may be purchased immediately after Pesach at the following stores in the Detroit area, except for Dunkin Donuts (10 & Greenfield) where chometz should not be bought until 10:10 PM, due to the Halachic requirement of  “bichdei sh’yaasu”.

It is advisable to wait two weeks after Pesach (April 28) before buying “pure” chometz products (e.g., bread, grain cereals, pasta, cookies and pretzels) at Jewish-owned stores that do not observe Pesach, even if they made a Mechiras Chometz before Pesach, due to the possibility that new chometz was received during Pesach. This includes Restaurant Depot and Natural Food Patch. It is permitted to purchase most other products immediately after Pesach, including pearled raw barley, dry cake mixes, flour (without malted barley), glue, all kitniyos, ketchup, mayonnaise, medicines, mustard, vinegar, vitamin tablets, baker’s yeast, and yeast extract.

K-COR: 2023-3-26 Pesach Update

On By

2023-3-26 Pesach Update PDF

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS WITHOUT PESACH MARKING were for a brief time mistakenly placed in the Pesach section at local stores (The Grove, Kroger). Check every label of your purchases for Pesach marking:

  • GOLDEN TASTE SUGAR FREE BEETS & HORSERADISH
  • GOLDEN TASTE SPICY OLIVES IN OIL
  • SEASON SKINLESS & BONELESS SARDINES IN OLIVE OIL
  • SUSHI MAVEN ROASTED NORI
  • PASKESZ REAL CHOCOLATE CHIPS

CLARIFICATION of “GROUND MEAT and PATTIES” item in the PesachGram: “Patties” refers only to unseasoned patties. Seasoned patties always require special Pesach marking.

CERES FRUIT JUICES, all varieties, are not Star-K certified for Pesach, even when bearing a Star-K P symbol.

B’GAN frozen STIR FRY VEGETABLES mistakenly bears a P next to the KAJ certification symbol. This product contains kitniyos.

Due to an error, the MEAL MART DRY RUB PASTRAMI sent in the MOADIM L’SIMCHA FOOD ORDERS is not a Kosher for Pesach product, and does not bear Pesach marking.

THE FOLLOWING OU-P PRODUCTS HAVE BEEN RECALLED DUE TO INFESTATION: 

  • JASON GLUTEN FREE PLAIN PANKO CRUMBS with BB dates of DEC 20 2023 and AUG 04 2024
  • LANDAU GLUTEN FREE PLAIN PANKO CRUMBS with lot codes 2241 through 2245

   Consumers who have cans with other dates/codes should be alert for signs of infestation in the product or for small holes at the bottom of the can.

BABY / CHILDREN PRODUCTS:. For the convenience of our readers, we list here a summary of some commonly used Baby / Children products approved for Pesach by Rabbi Bess or other reliable sources:

Advil Junior Strength Coated Tablets

Advil Children’s Suspension – all flavors

Advil Infants’ Drops – Grape

Advil Junior Strength Coated Tablets

Benadryl Children’s Allergy liquid and Dye-Free liquid – all flavors

Enfamil D-Vi-Sol Drops, Fer-In-Sol Drops, Poly-Vi-Sol Drops, Poly-Vi-Sol Drops with Iron, Tri-Vi-Sol Drops – OU

Kosher-Meds Children’s Ibuprofen Suspension – Berry Flavor – OU

Motrin Children’s Suspension – all flavors [NOT Motrin Infants’ Drops]

Sudafed PE Children’s Nasal Decongestant – Berry

Sudafed PE Children’s Cold & Cough – Grape

Tylenol Children’s Cold + Cough + Runny Nose liquid

Tylenol Children’s Cold + Cough + Sore Throat liquid

Tylenol Children’s Suspension – all flavors

Tylenol Infants’ Suspension – all flavors MiraLax Powder

                                                                            NON-PESACH ALERT

The following VEGETABLE SOUP MIX WITH MUSHROOMS products have been found to be infested and should not be used:

  • MANISCHEWITZ brandwith lot # H2060 and BB date 03012024
  • KEMACH brandwith lot # H2264 and BB date 09212024

   Consumers who have packages with other codes/dates should be alert for signs of infestation. Product can be checked by placing the mix – without the seasoning – in a white bowl; add enough water to cover it, and allow to sit for 15-20 minutes.  If insects are present, they will float to the top.

K-COR: 2023-2-26 KosherGram

On By

2023-2-26 KosherGram PDF

New DR PEPPER STRAWBERRIES & CREAM SODA is Kosher even without any Kashrus symbol, in both regular and Zero Sugar.

MILANO BAKERY BREAD and ROLLS, K-COR certified, are currently NOT Pas Yisroel. An update will be issued when their Pas Yisroel status resumes.

TUMS CHEWY DELIGHTS CORRECTION: The 2/2/23 KosherGram stated that this product is marked as Star-D Dairy. Actually, it bears a Diamond-K-D Dairy symbol, and is Kosher dairy.

ICEBERG LETTUCE SALAD and COLESLAW produced by DOLE under the DOLE brand name and under various private labels [store brands] normally bear the OK symbol, except when there is an issue of infestation. These labels include KROGER Brand, LITTLE SALAD BAR [Aldi], MARKETSIDE [Walmart] and others.

Currently, due to a printing problem, these products do not bear the OK symbol on some bags, and stores have a mixture of some bags with the OK symbol and some without. To determine whether a particular bag produced by Dole without the OK symbol is in fact OK approved, and does not have an infestation issue, consumers can send a picture of the product, plus a close-up of the date and lot number, to kashrusalerts@gmail.com , and we will forward the information to the OK office for their determination.

  • Please note that the above list of private labels refers to product produced for them by Dole. However, these labels are sometimes also produced by different companies that are not OK certified. Product produced by Dole can be identified by the lot code under the date. The code will begin with the letter B, N, W or Y, followed by 5 numbers, followed by the letter A, B or C. (Occasionally there may be a 6th number, instead of the A, B or C.)
  • Many of the KROGER Brand CLASSIC GARDEN and KROGER Brand SHREDDED ICEBERG bags in the Detroit area currently (and possibly in other areas) are not produced by Dole and do not bear an OK symbol. They bear a different symbol, and are not recommended. The same applies to Kroger Brand Fresh Broccoli Florets, Cauliflower Florets, and Vegetable Medley.

WELLSLEY FARMS GARLIC BUTTER & HERBS SEASONING: This dairy seasoning, sold at BJ’s, bears an unauthorized OU symbol.

THE ORIGINAL CRUMBS BAKESHOP INC. GOURMET CUPCAKES bears an unauthorized Kof-K symbol.

COSMO’S BRAND PITTED OIL CURED OLIVES produced in Morocco bears an unauthorized Star-K symbol.

The following KETO FACTORY products bear an unauthorized Oregon Kosher symbol:

  • Skinny Sweet Allulose and Monk Fruit Blend
  • Skinny Sweet Erythritol, Allulose, and Monk fruit blend
  • Rainbow Sprinkles

AMPHORA INTERNATIONAL DRIED MULBERRIES were mistakenly distributed in packaging bearing an OU symbol. This product is not OU certified.

                                                                                       RECALLS

PROSOBEE 12.9 OZ SIMPLY PLANT-BASED INFANT FORMULA POWDER with lot numbers ZL2HZF and ZL2HZZ has been recalled due to a possibility of contamination with Cronobacter bacteria, Details are available at https://www.enfamil.com/prosobee-recall-2023/  or 800-479-0551.

STARBUCKS FRAPPUCCINO VANILLA COFFEE DRINK in 13.7 oz. bottles with Best By dates of MAR 08 23, MAY 29 23, JUN 04 23, and JUN 10, 23 has been recalled due to a possibility of glass in the product. Details are available at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/index.cfm?Product=198322 or 800-211-8307.

K-COR: 2023-2-2 KosherGram

On By

2023-2-2 KosherGram PDF

THE FOLLOWING NEW SODAS ARE KOSHER even without any Kashrus symbol, in both regular and Zero Sugar:

  • STARRY LEMON LIME from Pepsi 
  • MOUNTAIN DEW PITCH BLACK soda [Limited Edition]. (See below regarding Pitch Black Energy.)
  • MOUNTAIN DEW VooDEW 2022 MYSTERY FLAVOR [Limited Edition]

New MOUNTAIN DEW ENERGY PITCH BLACK ENERGY DRINK [Limited Edition] contains grape juice, and is acceptable only when bearing a K or a recognized Kosher symbol, or when bearing the letters XG in the middle of the second line of the inkjet code on bottom of the can. This also applies to other flavors of Mountain Dew Energy and to Mountain Dew Kickstart drinks, which contain grape juice.

ONLINE SHOPPING REMINDER: When shopping online for grocery delivery or curbside pickup, always check the actual label on each item when the order is received. This is essential because many online descriptions or pictures give inaccurate or outdated information regarding the product’s Kosher status. In addition, the store may substitute non-Kosher or non-approved products if the requested item is not available.

One recent example: Great Value [Walmart] regular Tomato Ketchup is pictured online with an OU symbol, but the actual product in the store and that is delivered does not bear an OU. 

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS LABELED WITH A D ARE MADE ON DAIRY EQUIPMENT (“DE”), and may be eaten after meat but not together with meat:

  • NABISCO PREMIUM SALTINES – OU-D – all varieties. [Credit to Kashrut.com]
  • TRADER JOE’S HOT CHOCOLATE STICKS –  DARK CHOCOLATE – OU-D
  • PAMELA’S WHENEVER BARS – Blueberry Lemon, Cranberry Almond, Raisin Walnut & Spice – OU-D. (Note: Some packages mistakenly bear a plain OU without the D.)
  • CHOCOLOVE DARK CHOCOLATE BARS – Scroll K -Dairy – Those varieties that do not list dairy ingredients [check for butter oil or cream] should be considered DE.

TALENTI GELATO AND SORBETTO FROZEN DESSERT PRODUCTS, which were previously certified by the OU, are now certified by the Kof-K. (The company is using up old packaging with the OU-D.) The Kof-K is certifying many Talenti Dairy-Free Sorbetto products as DE; see Kof-K certificate at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WYx7IMTJN4dYNPW99A9WG8K1PqiOM683/view?usp=drivesdk .   [Credit also to Kashrut.com]  However, note that Dairy-Free Sorbetto Layers Coconut Chocolate Cookie is certified Dairy, not DE. 

TUMS PRODUCTS UPDATE:

  • Only those Tums products that bear a Kosher symbol are acceptable. Most of the certified products bear a Diamond K Pareve symbol; however, Tums Chewy Delights contains milk and is marked as Diamond-K-D Dairy.
  • Some containers of Tums Assorted Berries Extra Strength 750, Tums Assorted Fruit Extra Strength 750, and Tums Peppermint Ultra Strength 1000 are made by non-certified manufacturers and do not bear a Kosher symbol. Check each container.
  • Tums Naturals Black Cherry & Watermelon variety contains carmine color, which is made from non-Kosher cochineal beetles, and therefore bears no Kosher marking.
  • Tums Chewy Bites are not certified and bear no Kosher marking.

RICOLA COUGH / THROAT DROPS: Only the following varieties are recommended by the cRc (Chicago Rabbinical Council). They do not require a certification sticker: Original (Natural) Herb, Honey Herb and Lemon Mint – regular and Sugar Free.

SIMPLY NATURE CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER sold at Aldi is being produced by two different suppliers, one OU certified and one not. This sometime results in a mixture on the store shelf, of some jars with an OU and some without. Check each jar.

GREENFIELD NOODLE CO. has exhausted its stock of Yoshon flour. New product will use Chodosh flour and will not state “Yoshon” next to the expiration date. Product that still states Yoshon is Yoshon.

JIM BEAM BARBECUE SAUCES – Original Barbecue, Maple Bourbon, and Smoky Barrel – are no longer certified Kosher due to a processing change, and will no longer bear a Kof-K. Products produced before January 6, 2023 bearing the Kof-K symbol are approved.

FOOD FOR LIFE EZEKIEL 4:9 CINNAMON RAISIN CEREAL: The Kof-K has temporarily withdrawn its certification of this product, even when bearing the Kof-K symbol, due to a Kashrus issue that is being investigated. The Kof-K will issue a notice when it is once again certified.

SUN-MAID VANILLA YOGURT COVERED RAISINS MINI-SNACKS (5 oz. bag containing 10 – .5 oz. mini boxes) mistakenly bears an OK-P symbol on the boxes. This product is certified Kosher and Dairy, but is not certified for Pesach. The outer bag correctly states OK-D.

WEGMANS SALT & PEPPER PISTACHIOS mistakenly bears an OK-P symbol on some bags. This product is certified Kosher and Pareve, but is not certified for Pesach.

PLANTATION CANDIES of Telford, PA, under the certification of Star-K and previously under Rabbi Kaplinsky, has had its certification revoked effective immediately due to Kashrus violations. All products manufactured by Plantation Candies, even when bearing a Star-K or Rabbi Kaplinksy’s symbol (a K with the letters nun and bais inside it), should be considered NOT KOSHER.

SUPREMO ITALIANO canned ARTICHOKE HEARTS from Restaurant Depot bears an unauthorized KVH symbol.

TOP TASTE FRIED ONIONS and EASTERN FEAST FRIED ONIONS from Holland bear an unauthorized symbol of Rabbi Seckbach.

THE FOLLOWING GARDEN OF LIFE PRODUCTS, with the specified lot numbers and expiration dates, bear an unauthorized Star-K symbol and contain a non-Kosher ingredient:

MyKind Organics Women’s Multi 40+ Tablets

• Lot # 50316484, Exp. Date 10/16/2025

• Lot # 50319616, Exp. Date 10/23/2025

MyKind Organics Women’s Once Daily Tablets

• Lot # 50317709, Exp. Date 9/9/2025

• Lot # 50319618, Exp. Date 9/28/2025

• Lot # 50319619, Exp. Date 10/24/2025

FOR THE FUTURE, the following three Garden of Life products will no longer be certified and will not bear a Star-K symbol:

• MyKind Organics Women’s Multi 40+ Tablets

• MyKind Organics Women’s Once Daily Tablets

• MyKind Organics Prenatal Multi Tablets

                                                                                       RECALLS

DOMINO and C&H brands of GRANULATED SUGAR in 3.5 lb. rectangular tubs with specific lot numbers and Best By dates have been recalled due to the potential of metal wire in the product. Details are available at https://www.foodsafetynews.com/?s=domino+sugar+recall  .

ZLINE 30-inch, 36-inch and 48-inch RG GAS RANGES have been recalled due to serious risk of injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning. Details are available at ZLINE Expands Recall of Gas Ranges to Include 48-inch Gas Ranges Due to Serious Risk of Injury or Death from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning | CPSC.gov  or 888-359-4482.

CHILDREN’S PILLOWFORT WEIGHTED BLANKETS sold at Target have been recalled due to a risk of death by asphyxiation. Details are available at Target Recalls Children’s Pillowfort Weighted Blankets Due to Asphyxiation Hazard; Two Fatalities Reported | CPSC.gov  .

FISHER-PRICE ROCK ‘N PLAY SLEEPERS RECALL REANNOUNCED due to infant deaths. Details are available at Fisher-Price Reannounces Recall of 4.7 Million Rock ‘n Play Sleepers; At Least Eight Deaths Occurred After Recall | CPSC.gov  or 866-812-6518.

Kids2 ROCKING SLEEPERS RECALL REANNOUNCED due to infant deaths. Details are available at Kids2 Reannounces Recall of 694,000 Rocking Sleepers; Four Additional Deaths After Recall | CPSC.gov  or 866-869-7954.

K-COR: 2022-12-23 KosherGram

On By

2022-12-23 KosherGram PDF

PRODUCTS MARKETED FOR CHANUKAH are not necessarily Kosher, and should be used only when bearing reliable Kashrus certification. The following two products sold locally do not bear any certification:

  • “HAPPY HANUKKAH” and “LATKE” MILK CHOCOLATE COINS at T.J. Maxx
  • MOSER ROTH “8 NIGHTS OF HANUKKAH” “KOSHER” CHOCOLATES at Aldi

BELL PEPPERS FROM ISRAEL (red, yellow and orange) are now being sold in the U.S. and require taking of Terumos and Maaseros. (They are no longer subject to the Shemitah restriction of “sefichin”.) Carefully check the fine print on the package, or the sticker on peppers sold loose, for the country of origin. Often the same brand has some peppers from Israel and some from other locations, so each individual package or pepper should be checked.

Whenever buying produce, one should be careful to check the sticker, bag label or original case for the country of origin, due to issues of Shemitah (consult your Rav for details), or of Terumos and Maaseros if it is not Shemitah product.     CITRUS FRUIT FROM ISRAEL will soon appear in U.S. stores, and will be Shemitah product well into 2023. This includes oranges, grapefruit, lemons, mandarins, clementines, pomelos and “Sweetie”.  Some additional examples of Israeli produce commonly found in the U.S. include tomatoes, carrots, persimmons (“Sharon Fruit”), pomegranates, mangos, dates, dill and parsley.

PRODUCTS LABELED OU-D may either contain actual dairy ingredients, in which case they may not be eaten after meat, or they may be made on dairy equipment (commonly called DE), in which case they can be eaten after meat but not together. To find out whether a product is labeled OU-D due to dairy ingredients, or due to dairy equipment, call the OU hotline at 212-613-8241 or e-mail at kosherq@ou.org. One cannot make a determination based on the ingredient or allergen listing, because many times the dairy ingredients are not listed openly.

The OU has informed us that the following products labeled OU-D contain actual dairy, even though there may be no obvious dairy listed in their ingredient or allergen information:

  • RITZ CRACKERS – all varieties, including Original
  • TRADER JOE’S BLACK and STRAWBERRY SOFT LICORICE TWISTS
  • RJ’s SOFT EATING LICORICE
  • FRIENDLY FARMS PUMPKIN SPICE COCONUT WHIPPED TOPPING at Aldi

     MOCHA MIX NON-DAIRY COFFEE CREAMER bears an OU-D due to dairy equipment.

   BUDGET SAVER MONSTER CHERRY-PINEAPPLE SLUSHED POPS that bear a plain OU are pareve. Those that bear OU-D are dairy equipment.

ALDI and TRADER JOE’S frequently change suppliers for their store brands [private label] products. The Kashrus status of these products can therefore change from week to week; and even at the same time, there may be a mixture of seemingly identical products on the shelf, some with acceptable Kashrus certification and some without, or some pareve and some dairy. Carefully check each individual item for proper Kashrus marking.

Following are two recent changes in the Detroit area. (Other regions of the U.S. may differ.)

  • EARTH GROWN ORGANIC TOFU [at Aldi] no longer bears certification.
  • TRADER JOE’S THANKSGIVING STUFFING SEASONED KETTLE CHIPS no longer bears certification.

THE FOLLOWING NEW SODAS ARE KOSHER, even without any Kashrus symbol:

  • SIMPLE 7-UP
  • MOUNTAIN DEW THRASHED APPLE
  • MOUNTAIN DEW FRUIT QUAKE – Limited Edition

    COCA-COLA DREAMWORLD SODA LIMITED EDITION – regular and Zero Sugar – is Kosher and bears an OU on the bottle cap or engraved into the can lid.

JELLY BELLY SNAPPLE MIX JELLY BEANS are Kosher and OU certified, even though the OU symbol is missing from the bags.

FRANGELICO LIQUEUR is no longer OU certified. Bottles without the OU symbol are not certified.

SYSCO CANOLA SALAD OIL mistakenly bears an OU-P on the case; it is only certified for year round use. The individual containers correctly bear OU Pareve.

MIYOKO’S CREAMERY EUROPEAN STYLE CULTURED VEGAN BUTTER is certified Kof-K DE [dairy equipment], as stated on the box. Some inner wrappers mistakenly state Pareve.

WORLD’S FAIR CARAMEL TOPPING sold at Save-A-Lot is certified OK Dairy. Some labels mistakenly bear a plain OK without the D.

LUCKY CHARMS COMPLETE MARSHMALLOW PANCAKE MIX is not OU certified. Some boxes produced for Mexico bear an unauthorized OU-D.

SHIN GOLD YAKI SUSHI NORI ROASTED SEAWEED distributed by BNT Int’l Trading bears an unauthorized Star-K symbol.

PURAVIDA VEGETABLE MELANGE FIRE ROASTED FROZEN VEGETABLES (sold at Costco) is not OU certified. Some bags bear an unauthorized OU symbol.

STONE HOUSE BREAD is not OU certified. Several varieties mistakenly bear an unauthorized OU symbol.

US HONEY BEE FILLED HARD CANDY at Fruidles.com bears an unauthorized Kof-K symbol and claim on its web posting. The actual product does not bear a Kof-K on the label.

Kashrus Notice – Bell Peppers from Israel 2022-12-2

On By

2022-12-2 KosherGram PDF

BELL PEPPERS FROM ISRAEL (red, yellow and orange) are now being sold in local stores, including Kroger and Trader Joe’s, and at this time are forbidden to be eaten due to the Shemitah restriction of “sefichin”. (They do not have kedushas shevi’is, and may be disposed of.)

Carefully check the fine print on the package, or the sticker on peppers sold loose, for the country of origin. Often the same brand has some peppers from Israel and some from other locations, so each individual package or pepper should be checked.

K-COR: 2022-9-20 KosherGram

On By

2022-9-20 KosherGram PDF

PAS YISROEL: The K-COR wishes to remind consumers of the accepted custom to be stringent on Pas Yisroel during Aseres Yemei T’shuva. Please be advised that many K-COR certified establishments produce or sell some bread and cake products that are not Pas Yisroel. Please ask the Mashgiach or call the K-COR office for details regarding specific establishments. 

  • The following establishments are totally Pas Yisroel: ZEMAN’S, BAKE STATION, DAKOTA BREAD COMPANY,  JERUSALEM PIZZA, PIZZA STOP, SPREADS BAGELS & CAFÉ, PRIME 10, SOUL CAFÉ RESTAURANT, KAPLAN CAKES, and YODELS ‘N MORE.  At THE GROVE [One Stop] FRESH BAKERY dept., all items that are sold loose, or repackaged with a Grove label, are Pas Yisroel. 
  • KORDAS’ breads, rolls, and buns from METROPOLITAN BAKING CO. bearing the K-COR symbol are Pas   Yisroel, except for Pita Bread which is not Pas Yisroel.  
  • MILANO BAKERY bread and rolls that bear the K-COR symbol are Pas Yisroel*, except for Milano Bread Sticks which are not Pas Yisroel.
  • SIMPLY NATURE KNOCK YOUR SPROUTS OFF SPROUTED 7 GRAIN BREAD at Aldi with an OK symbol is Pas Yisroel*.
  • SPECIALLY SELECTED brand SMALL BATCH SOURDOUGH LOAF,  ITALIAN BREAD and any other Specially Selected breads at Aldi bearing a Scroll K symbol are Pas Yisroel.
  • TRADER JOE’S brand of CHOCOLATE BROOKLYN BABKA, CINNAMON BROOKLYN BABKA, and             HALF MOON COOKIES that bear OU Pareve are Pas Yisroel. (They are no longer Yoshon.)
  • TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC FRENCH ROLLS and TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC FRENCH BAGUETTE that bear MK certification [Montreal] are Pas Yisroel*.
  • TRADER JOE’S CHALLAH – BRAIDED EGG BREAD that bears an Earth K symbol and states “Pas Yisroel” is Pas Yisroel.
  • TRADER JOE’S SPROUTED WHEAT 7-GRAIN BREAD that bears an OK and states “Pas Yisroel” is Pas Yisroel*.

     [NOTE: Trader Joe’s Sprouted Wheat Sourdough Bread and Sprouted Wheat Multigrain Bread bearing a Star-K are not Pas Yisroel.]

  • GOLDBERGS FINE FOODS CHALLAH TWIN PACK TRADITIONAL that bears an OK and states “Pas Yisroel” (available at Costco) is Pas Yisroel.
  • NATURAL OVENS BAKERY KETO-FRIENDLY WHITE BREAD with an OU ink jetted on the individually wrapped loaves (available at Costco) is Pas Yisroel.
  • S. ROSEN’S breads, buns and rolls with an OU (available at Costco) are Pas Yisroel*.
  • FOOD FOR LIFE EZEKIEL SPROUTED GRAIN BREADS with the Kof-K symbol are Pas Yisroel*. The Pocket Bread, however, is not Pas Yisroel.
  • MATT’S BAKERY COOKIES with OK Pareve are Pas Yisroel*.
  • LILLY’S BABKA, RUGELACH and other cakes and cookies with an OU from Lilly’s Baking Company / Brooklyn Brands are Pas Yisroel. (The labels no longer need to state Pas Yisroel. They are not Yoshon.)

   * per the “glow-plug method” [an electrical heating element turned on by the Mashgiach], which most Kashrus agencies consider Pas Yisroel. (The OU, however, does not accept this as Pas Yisroel, based on the psak of Rabbi Yisroel Belsky zt’l.)

                                  

HONEY: 

  • Standard honey goes through a filtering process, which removes the non-Kosher bee parts. Even “raw and unfiltered” honey is usually strained, to remove the bee parts. However, some completely unprocessed honeys are neither filtered nor strained. If the label or the manufacturer states that the honey is not strained, or if bee parts are visible, that honey should be avoided.
  • “Forest honey”, “Honeydew honey”, and “Beechwood honey” (or honey named after other types of trees such as Pine, Fir, Oak, etc.), generally refer to honey produced by bees that have consumed the non-Kosher excretions of aphids and scale insects left on trees (as opposed to standard honey produced from flower nectar). These are not considered Kosher according to some opinions, and should be avoided.
  • “Royal Jelly” is a bee product that, unlike regular honey, is an actual secretion of the bee. Some Poskim therefore rule that it is not included in the permitted category of “honey”, and it should be avoided.

FISH HEADS: 

  • The frozen Rainbow Trout fish heads now being sold at Superior Kosher Meats are completely fresh water raised, and do not need to be checked for lice.
  • Rainbow Trout from Norway are heavily infested, and require thorough cleaning and checking [see below].

The following is from New Square Kashrus Council:

  • White fish: White fish heads are free of infestation concern.
  • Salmon/Baby Salmon: Salmon heads [even farm raised] are commonly infested with salmon lice (brownish parasites ranging in size from approximately 1-3 cm).

             ·   The entire gills must be removed. (It may be easier to first cut the head in half before cleaning).

             ·   Rinse the head thoroughly with water while rubbing all surfaces of the head (inside and outside), including all cracks, crevices and folds, and under and around the tongue. Inspect the head to make sure it is clean.

One who wants to avoid the checking process may just rinse the head and cook the head in a separate pot, take a small piece from the flesh of the head, and visually inspect it before eating to make sure there is no foreign object on it. 

  • Carp: Carp heads may be infested with very small transparent insects called Argulus that are very hard to detect. There is no known method to clean infested carp heads properly, and they should not be used unless checked by an expert.

BLACK EYED PEAS are often infested and require careful checking. The following is based on the Star-K procedure for checking dried, canned or frozen black eyed peas, and applies even if the product bears Kashrus certification. (Note: All canned peas and beans always require Kashrus certification, for general Kashrus concerns.) 

  • Dried black eyed peas should first be boiled in water. After they have been fully cooked, turn off the flame and allow them to soak in the water for 2-3 hours.  The peas will swell and the peel will become translucent. Then check as below.
  • Canned or frozen black eyed peas may be checked straight out of the can/bag; there is no need to boil or soak.
  • To check (all types): Take the black eyed peas and inspect for holes or dark-colored stains, as this may indicate an insect beneath the thin peel.  If there is a dark spot on the peel, remove the thin skin and check if there is a cavity with a bug in it. (The black “eye” spot is not a sign of infestation.  Similarly, orange colored stains on the surface are not signs of infestation; only dark or black stains are of concern.)

[Note: For those who prefer not to rely on checking, some Poskim advise that the Rosh Hashana simanim custom can be fulfilled without eating the item, by placing it on the table and looking at it.]

                                 

New GLACEAU VITAMINWATER ZERO SUGAR “LOOK” – BLUEBERRY HIBISCUS FCB Slurpee syrup is Kosher and pareve (no symbol required). The label on the syrup box in the back must be checked to verify the brand and flavor. 

SOUTHERN GROVE OVEN ROASTED ALMONDS at Aldi in some regions, including Michigan and Ohio, no longer bears an OU. Always check the label.

KROGER, MEIJER and GREAT VALUE [Walmart] brands of PRETZELS that previously had a plain OK symbol, including Pretzel Sticks, Pretzel Rods and Pretzel Mini Twists, are now changing to an OK-D symbol due to dairy equipment, and should not be eaten together with meat. Packages that still bear a plain OK symbol are pareve. Several other store brands of OK certified pretzels (e.g., Clancy’s at Aldi) will also be changing status. Check each bag.  (Note: These pretzels are not Pas Yisroel.)

SUPER K FORTUNE COOKIES from KARI-OUT COMPANY, White Plains, NY, are Kosher only when bearing the OU symbol on the case and also on each individually wrapped cookie. Cases not bearing the OU, and cookies not bearing the OU on their individual wrapper, were produced by a non-certified supplier. Some cases bearing an OU were found to mistakenly contain some non-certified cookies mixed in that did not bear an OU. Check each wrapper.  (Note: These cookies are not Pas Yisroel.)

LUNCH BUDDIES FRUIT CUPS IN 100% FRUIT JUICE sold at Aldi, including Yellow Cling Diced Peaches, Diced Pears, and Mandarin Oranges, bear an unauthorized Star-K and are being recalled. These products contain grape juice.

OMENA ORGANICS FROZEN BROCCOLI bears an unauthorized Star-K symbol. This was found in Midwest markets, including Whole Foods.

NIBBLES & NUTS GIFT BASKETS and TRAYS (Oak Park/Farmington Hills, MI) bear a sticker on some packages stating “All products in this box or basket are Kosher”. Please be aware that these baskets and trays have no Kosher certification and are prepared without any Kashrus supervision, and therefore should not be accepted as Kosher.

PRODUCT RECALL

SIMILAC ALIMENTUM BABY FORMULA packaged in 32 fl. oz. plastic bottles with Lot No. 41740RH00 and Best By date 06/01/23, which was distributed in Ohio and Michigan, has been recalled due to a packaging defect that that could cause health risks for babies.  Details are available at https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2022/09/abbott-recalls-certain-similac-formula-over-packaging-defects/  .   

[Note: This formula is not Kosher approved, but is Halachically permitted in certain circumstances upon consultation with a Rav.]

                         We Wish All a K’siva v’Chasima Tova

K-COR: 2022-9-2 KosherGram

On By

2022-9-2 KosherGram PDF

THE FOLLOWING NEW SODAS ARE KOSHER, even without any Kashrus symbol:  

• VERNORS BLACK CHERRY Ginger Soda limited edition. (Regular Vernors also remains Kosher.) • BUBLY SPARKLING WATER BELLINI BLISS. (All Bubly Sparkling Water flavors are Kosher.)  

ICED COFFEES AT 7-ELEVEN ON LINCOLN RD. are presently not certified, as posted on the machine, because the  incoming products no longer bear Kashrus certification. Kashrus certifiers of 7-Eleven iced coffees at stores in  other areas are advised to check their products.  

GERBER SNACKS FOR BABY HAWAIIAN DELIGHT Creamy Juice & Fruit Blend is not OU certified (and contains  grape juice and whey). Some labels bear an unauthorized OU symbol.  

SMART SWEETS LOLLIPOPS is no longer Kof-K certified, and no longer bears the Kof-K symbol. It is mistakenly  pictured with a Kof-K symbol on the Target and Whole Foods websites.  

SMUCKER’S UNCRUSTABLES SANDWICHES: OU certification of these products, in all flavors, is being  discontinued due to supply chain issues, and non-certified product is now hitting the market. Packaging which  still bears the OU symbol is Kosher. Check each package carefully.  

MAUI FARMS FRUIT COCKTAIL IN NATURAL JUICE, packed in Foodservice size #10 cans, bears an unauthorized  Star-K symbol.  

PRODUCT RECALL  

MARKET PANTRY WHITE FUDGE ANIMAL COOKIES in 44 oz. plastic bear-shaped jugs sold at Target, with  Best By date 21FEB2023, lot number Y052722, and time stamp from 15:00 to 23:00, have been recalled  because metal wire was found in some of the cookies. Details are available at https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/df-stauffer-biscuit-co-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-market-pantry-white-fudge-animal-cookies-best?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery or 888-480-1988. 

K-COR: 2022-7-28 KosherGram

On By

2022-7-28 KosherGram PDF

 

RITA’S ITALIAN ICE & FROZEN CUSTARD OF FARMINGTON HILLS at 11 Mile & Middlebelt is under supervision of the Vaad Harabbonim / Council of Orthodox Rabbis of Greater Detroit, as Dairy non-Cholov Yisroel. Many flavors of the Italian Ices contain only pareve ingredients, but may contain traces of dairy; a list is posted at the store. Cream Ices are Dairy.

ICE CREAM and FROZEN YOGURT STORES often claim that they are Kosher and may post Kosher certification letters, which leads consumers to believe that the store and its products are under supervision. In fact, in most cases, the letters refer only to specific products or ingredients which are factory produced under supervision, and are certified only when in their original sealed packaging bearing Kosher marking. Once the unsupervised store opens the packaging, the certification is no longer valid. Unless the consumer verifies that there is actual on-site reliable Rabbinical supervision of the entire individual retail store, no ice cream, yogurt, syrups or toppings should be considered Kosher except for those in their original sealed containers bearing a reliable Kosher certification.

The following are some stores in our area that are not under supervision: Clark’s Ice Cream and Yogurt, Haagen-Dazs, Menchie’s, Oberweis, and TCBY.

It is always preferable to buy at fully supervised stores. Locally, soft serve Cholov Yisroel ice cream is available at Jerusalem Pizza and Soul Cafe. Hard pack Cholov Yisroel ice cream is available at Spreads Bagels & Café. Hard pack non-Cholov Yisroel ice cream and yogurt is available at Baskin-Robbins/Dunkin’ Donuts at 10 Mile & Greenfield in Oak Park (which is K-COR certified for all products). Packaged Cholov Yisroel ice cream is available at The Grove Kosher Market.

If it is necessary to purchase hard pack ice cream or yogurt from an unsupervised store, the consumer should request and see a sealed container before it is opened, and check for the Kosher certification mark on the container. In addition, the scoop should be thoroughly washed.

Soft serve ice cream or yogurt should not be purchased from an unsupervised store, because of the inability to verify that Kosher mix was put into the machine.

THE FOLLOWING NEW SODAS ARE KOSHER, even without any Kashrus symbol:

  • MOUNTAIN DEW FLAMIN’ HOT
  • MOUNTAIN DEW PURPLE THUNDER
  • MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA GOLD
  • MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA MANGO GEM
  • PEPPER DARK BERRY (regular and Zero Sugar)

MOUNTAIN DEW KICKSTART, MOUNTAIN DEW ENERGY [formerly Mountain Dew “Rise” Energy], and MOUNTAIN DEW GAME FUEL ENERGY DRINKS contain grape juice [except for Game Fuel “Zero” varieties], and are acceptable only when bearing a K or a recognized Kosher symbol, or when bearing the letters XG in the middle of the second line of the inkjet code on bottom of the can.

Other Mountain Dew products that are produced in the USA, Canada, and Mexico are acceptable without any symbol or code.

New FRUITWORKS REAL SUGAR MANGO LEMONADE FCB Slurpee syrup is Kosher and pareve (no symbol required). The label on the syrup box in the back must be checked to verify the brand and flavor.

GATORADE ZERO THIRST QUENCHER in Grape and Fruit Punch flavors in 12 oz., 20 oz. and 28 oz. bottles is OU certified and pareve, even though the labels currently do not bear the OU symbol.

GATORADE ZERO “WITH PROTEIN” THIRST QUENCHER in 16.9 oz. bottles contains whey, a dairy ingredient, and bears OU-D.

THE CHODOSH SEASON is fast approaching for Oats, Spring Wheat and Barley. Oats may be Chodosh by approximately August 3, Spring Wheat by August 12, and Barley by August 15.  There may be shortages of Yoshon grain this year. Those who want to purchase Yoshon items to store over the Chodosh season should do so now.  Please note that all grain and flour products that will be stored should be refrigerated to avoid insect infestation.

TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC POPS lollipops in retail bags with a Kof-K symbol have been discontinued. The lollipops that are being offered locally to children at the checkout counters are currently coming in to Trader Joe’s in bulk with no Kosher marking, and should not be accepted as Kosher.

ALDI’S EARTH GROWN brand DAIRY FREE SHREDDED MOZZARELLA and EARTH GROWN DAIRY FREE CHEDDAR STYLE SHREDS products are being sold in two versions, from two different suppliers. One version is Kosher and correctly bears OU Pareve; the other version is not Kosher, and does not bear an OU. This situation is being corrected with the non-Kosher version being discontinued. Check each package carefully for the OU symbol.

ALDI’S FROZEN BROCCOLI, SPINACH and CAULIFLOWER products, sold under the Simply Nature and Season’s Choice brands, products of Mexico, and Aldi’s SIMPLY NATURE OIL SPRAYS (Coconut, Avocado, Olive, Grapeseed) bear an MK symbol (an MK in a circle, with the word Kosher in Hebrew and English inside the circle to the right of the K) in some regions. Consumers should be aware that this is not the MK of Montreal or Manchester.

KROGER HEARTY VEGETABLE READY TO SERVE SOUP in an 18.8 oz. can is still pictured on Kroger’s website with an OU symbol, but the actual product does not bear an OU, and lost its Kosher status two years ago.

SMUCKER’S UNCRUSTABLES SANDWICHES: OU certification of these products, in all flavors, will be discontinued over the next few months due to supply chain issues. Packaging which still bears the OU symbol is Kosher. Check each package carefully.

GOLD NUT NATURAL DRIED GUAVA (Discs) have been found to be infested, and should not be used. Consumers are advised to return products to the point of purchase.

B&G GHERKINS UPDATE: The Star-K has identified an additional lot of B&G Gherkins found to contain insect infestation. The following are the affected lot codes (printed on the side of the lid). These lots should not be used:

  • #25021 – Best By Feb 25 2023
  • #09031 – Best By Mar 09 2023
  • #24061 – Best By Jun 24 2023
  • #25061 – Best byJun 25 2023 – newly identified

Consumers of other lots currently on the market are advised to slice open each gherkin to check for possible infestation.

METAMUCIL PRODUCTS INFORMATION from Star-K: Consumers are advised that new Metamucil Fiber + Collagen Peptides Rejuvenation Blend contains collagen, which is a non-Kosher ingredient, and is not approved for use. Consumers are also advised that Metamucil Psyllium Fiber Capsules contain gelatin, a non-Kosher ingredient.

While Metamucil products are not certified, the Star-K site previously listed “All Powders” as being approved. That information has since been updated. The Metamucil powders listed below are currently approved:

 

  • Real Sugar Orange
  • Real Sugar Orange Smooth
  • Real Sugar Unflavored Coarse
  • Sugar-Free Berry Smooth
  • Sugar-Free Orange
  • Sugar-Free Orange Smooth
  • Sugar-Free Unflavored Smooth

ENJOY LIFE brand SEA SALT LENTIL CHIPS are certified cRc D.E. (dairy equipment). Some packages were mistakenly labeled cRc Pareve.

JEWEL OSCO brand FROSTED SUGAR COOKIES, produced by Granny B’s cookies, mistakenly bear an OU on some labels. These cookies contain carmine, an insect derived coloring.

DELL’ ALPE brand MARINARA SAUCE bears an unauthorized cRc symbol and is not Kosher.

McCLURE’S BAKERY BUTTER & EGG DINNER ROLL and CHEESE BREAD products are not OU certified. Some labels bear an unauthorized OU symbol.

PREMIUM FOOD SOURCE BAMBOO SHOOTS, distributed by Limson Trading, Inc. (64 oz. can), bears an unauthorized Kof-K symbol.

PRODUCT RECALLS

ENJOY LIFE PRODUCTS RECALL: Many Enjoy Life brand Soft Baked Cookies, Chewy Bars, Breakfast Ovals and Brownie Bites with specific Best By dates have been recalled due to the potential presence of hard plastic pieces in the products. Details are available at  https://enjoylifefoods.com/blogs/test/important-product-announcement  or 855-543-5335.

TRADER JOE’S SOFT-BAKED SNICKERDOODLES COOKIES with Best By date 2/03/2023 has been recalled due to the potential presence of hard plastic pieces in the product. Details are available at https://www.traderjoes.com/home/announcements?category=recalls&id=1351820848   or 626-599-3817.