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K-COR: 2025-9-12 KosherGram

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2025-9-12 KosherGram PDF

PAS YISROEL: The K-COR reminds 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. Ask the Mashgiach or call the K-COR office for details regarding specific establishments. 

  • The following establishments are totally Pas Yisroel, except where noted: BAKE STATION, DAKOTA BREAD COMPANY, ZEMAN’S, JERUSALEM PIZZA [except for wraps], PIZZA STOP, ESS IN [except for Keto Taco], PRIME 10, SOUL CAFÉ RESTAURANT, KAPLAN CAKES, SAY CHEESE, SUGAR & CRUST 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. that bear the K-COR symbol are Pas  Yisroel*. Note that Kordas’ Greek Style Pita Bread and Kordas’ English Muffins are not K-COR certified.
  • MILANO BAKERY BREADS and ROLLS that bear the K-COR symbol are Pas Yisroel* except for Milano Bread Sticks which are not Pas Yisroel.
  • SPECIALLY SELECTED brand SMALL BATCH SOURDOUGH LOAF, SMALL BATCH ITALIAN LOAF, ITALIAN BREAD and any other Specially Selected breads at Aldi that bear a Scroll K symbol are Pas Yisroel, and state “P.Y.” under the symbol in fine print. [Note that some Specially Selected breads with other symbols may not be Pas Yisroel, or may not have reliable certification. Some bear no certification at all.]
  • 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.]

  • KRONOS PITA BREAD with a cRc symbol is Pas Yisroel*, as stated on the label, except for packages with lot codes 5160 and 5167 that are not Pas Yisroel due to an oven maintenance issue, despite the Pas Yisroel labeling.
  • 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 a plain OK symbol are “Pas Yisroel”*, as stated on the label. Those that bear OK-D or OK-DE are not Pas Yisroel.

   * 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 that is 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.
  • Honeycomb should be checked [before Yom Tov] for bee parts or insects. Honeycomb made from factory produced synthetic wax may contain non-Kosher ingredients and should not be used without reliable certification.

FISH HEADS: 

  • The Rainbow Trout fish heads now being sold at Superior Kosher Meats are completely fresh water raised in streams fed by artesian springs, 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, which may indicate an insect beneath the thin peel.  If holes or stains are found, 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 MOUNTAIN DEW TROLLI ZERO SUGAR CHERRY-LEMON SODA Limited Edition is Kosher-pareve (no symbol required):

THE FOLLOWING NEW SLURPEE SYRUPS [FCB] and FOUNTAIN DRINK are Kosher and pareve (no symbol required except where noted). The label on the syrup box in the back of the 7-Eleven store should be checked to verify the brand and flavor, unless that particular store has store level Kashrus certification of its Slurpee machine(s):

  • NERDS STRAWBERRY FCB with HKA symbol
  • POWERADE XTRA SOUR GRAPE SHOCKER FCB
  • POWERADE GRAPE BLITZ Fountain Drink

SKITTLES CANDIES: At this time, some – not all – Skittles candies are certified Kosher pareve even without the OU symbol. To determine the status of a package, look at the ink-jetted code on the back. If the second line contains the letters WAC in the 6th, 7th and 8th digits, and the Best Before date is June 2026 or later; or if the second line contains the letters YRV, regardless of date, then it is OU certified. Eventually, the OU symbol will appear on the packaging. – Note that Skittles Gummies and Skittles Pop’d candies are not certified.

ZWEET CANDIES/Galil Brands: Not all Zweet candies are Kosher. Some varieties, including Insanely Sour Belts in Strawberry and Rainbow flavors, Pumpkin candy, and possibly others, are not Kosher and bear no Kosher marking. Some varieties, including Gummies Vampire Teeth, are available in both Kosher and non-Kosher versions, and have been found mixed in the same bin in stores. Carefully check the back label of every package for the Kosher marking. As a further assurance, check the ink-jetted code on the package – the second line should begin with BDMC = Beth Din Minchas Chinuch.

TROLLI GUMMI POPS are no longer OU certified, and new packages do not bear the OU-D symbol. Packages still bearing the OU-D are certified. Check each package.

TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC VEGETABLE BROTH in Hearty and Low Sodium varieties will no longer be Kof-K certified due to a change in production facilities. New packages do not bear the Kof-K symbol. Packages still bearing the Kof-K are certified. Check each package.

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS ARE CERTIFIED KOSHER DAIRY. Some labels mistakenly do not bear the D designation:

  • BAKER’S TREAT APPLE CINNAMON MINI MUFFINS [OU-D]
  • SUPREMO ITALIANO SMALL CANNOLI SHELLS [KSA Dairy; mistakenly labeled Pareve]

TOKIN’ CHEW HONEY bore unauthorized OK and Earth K symbols on its labels and online images.

                              We Wish All a K’siva v’Chasima Tova

K-COR: 2025-8-13 KosherGram

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2025-8-13 KosherGram PDF

THE CHODOSH SEASON is starting. 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.

According to the Kashrus Agencies, pasta products and durum / semolina flours are the first Chodosh products this season and will be in stores soon; stock up now. Updates are available at yoshon.com, and Email alerts can be requested at info@yoshonnetwork.org .

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

  • VERNORS BOSTON COOLER Limited Edition
  • MOUNTAIN DEW INFINITE SWIRL

THE FOLLOWING NEW SLURPEE SYRUPS are Kosher and pareve (no symbol required). The label on the syrup box in the back of the 7-Eleven store must be checked to verify the brand and flavor, unless that particular store has store level Kashrus certification of its Slurpee machine(s):

  • MOUNTAIN DEW INFINITE SWIRL FCB Limited Edition
  • FANTA ZERO SUGAR DELICIOUS HIBISCUS & BERRY FCB

7-ELEVEN SLURPEES at 13 Mile & Greenfield are no longer certified by the K-COR/Vaad Harabbonim. 7-Eleven Slurpees at Lincoln & Greenfield [all three machines] and 11 Mile & Coolidge [only the left machine] remain certified. ICED COFFEES at Lincoln & Greenfield [Mocha Latte and French Vanilla Latte] are certified Dairy, not Cholov Yisroel.

DAVE’S SWEET TOOTH TOFFEE is no longer certified by the Council of Orthodox Rabbis / Vaad Harabbonim and is not acceptable, even when bearing the Council’s K-COR symbol, due to Kashrus violations. Corrective action is being implemented.

BIGGBY COFFEE in Lathrup Village is a non-Kosher establishment, as all Biggby locations. No products or equipment can be considered Kosher unless they are in their original sealed packaging bearing a reliable certification.

IDAHOAN “ORIGINAL MASHED POTATOES” does not bear an OU symbol on new boxes due to a printing error, but is still certified OU Pareve. 

CREPINI EGG WRAPS: Due to operational changes, new production of Crepini Egg Wraps is no longer Kof-K certified and will not bear the Kof-K symbol. Product currently in stores with the Kof-K symbol was produced before this change and is certified, and will bear a Lot Code of 300630 or lower.  

BEECH-NUT BABY FOODS are no longer OU certified, and do not bear the OU symbol. Older jars still bearing the OU are certified.

BASE CULTURE BREADS are no longer certified Kosher. Images on some websites (Amazon, Whole Foods) mistakenly still show the OU symbol.

MANISCHEWITZ CHOLOV YISROEL PRODUCTS: Many Manischewitz chocolate and cheese products are mistakenly listed on a website as Cholov Yisroel. Only Milk Chocolate Coated Matzo and regular Milk Chocolate Coins [not Crypto Gelt Coins] are Cholov Yisroel, when stated so on the label.

TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC FRENCH ROLLS and TRADER JOE’S ORGANIC FRENCH BAGUETTE that bear the MK symbol [Montreal] are both still Pas Yisroel. There has been no change.

KRONOS PITA with lot codes 5160 and 5167 are not Pas Yisroel despite the cRc / Pas Yisroel labeling on the packaging, due to an oven maintenance issue.

TUMS ANTACID PRODUCTS: 

  • Only those Tums products that bear an OU or Diamond K symbol are acceptable. Some varieties are not certified and do not bear any symbol. In addition, some products are produced in both certified and non-certified plants, so that the same variety may bear a symbol on some containers and not on others. This can be found even in the same store. Carefully check each container.
  • Most of the certified products are pareve as stated on the label. However, Tums Chewy Delights contains milk and bears a Diamond-K-D Dairy symbol.  [Not to be confused with Tums Chewy Bites, which is not certified.]

WISH-BONE DRESSINGS: Only those that bear the OU symbol are Kosher. Some varieties come in several versions, of which some are Kosher and some are not. Check each bottle carefully. Some current examples:

  • THOUSAND ISLAND DRESSING – Only the “No Sugar Added” version is OU certified. Regular and Light versions are not.
  • ITALIAN DRESSINGS – several versions are Kosher, and several are not.

SWEET BABY RAY’S SAUCES: 

  • Many varieties, but not all, are Kosher. Check each for the OU or OU-D symbol.
  • SWEET BABY RAY’S BUFFALO BARBECUE SAUCE [“Buff-a-Cue”] currently contains milk, as listed in the ingredients, and bears an OU-D. This may change in the future to a pareve formula, and it will then bear a plain OU. A Kosher website mistakenly lists this presently as pareve, and some shopping sites mistakenly picture this with a plain OU.
  • SWEET BABY RAY’S BUFFALO WING SAUCE in retail size bottles is pareve and bears a plain OU. In the 1.5 oz., 2 oz. and gallon Foodservice sizes it is dairy and bears OU-D.

MrBEAST FEASTIBLES CHOCOLATES recently received OU Dairy certification, and are Kosher only when bearing the OU-D symbol on the packaging. Stores now have a mixture of product with the OU-D and product without. Check each package.

“THE ONLY BEAN” CRUNCHY ROASTED EDAMAME BEANS SNACKS have OU certification for several varieties. The Wasabi Soy Sauce variety, however, is not OU certified and does not bear an OU, but it is included in a Variety Pack that bears an OU on the outer box. The OU symbol on the box refers only to the certified varieties that bear the OU on their individual packages. [Note that some websites, e.g. Amazon and Meijer, incorrectly picture the Wasabi variety with an OU.]

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS CONTAIN DAIRY INGREDIENTS AND ARE CERTIFIED KOSHER DAIRY. Some labels mistakenly do not bear the D designation:

  • ARIZONA WHIPPED PINEAPPLE ORANGE FRUIT JUICE COCKTAIL [OU-D]
  • TOO GOOD GOURMET / GHIRARDELLI  COOKIES – Chocolate Chip, Double Chocolate, Confetti [OU-D; missing D on front label]. (Sold locally at T. J. Maxx)

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS BEAR UNAUTHORIZED KASHRUS MARKING on some labels or images:

  • MCCORMICK TARTAR SAUCE – unauthorized cRc symbol on images at online stores, e.g. Amazon and Walmart.
  • RING POP GUMMY RINGS – unauthorized OU symbol. [Other Ring Pop items bearing the OU are authorized.]
  • NUTSTOP brand LICORICE ALLSORTS – unauthorized cRc symbol. This product is not Kosher.
  • HYSON PUFF PASTRY DOUGH SHEETS – unauthorized OU symbol.

PRODUCT RECALLS

SYSCO CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PUDDING and BAY VALLEY FOODS THANK YOU CHOCOLATE PUDDING in 7 lb. (#10) cans have been recalled due to post-processing container damage that may lead to microbial growth. Details are available at https://source86.com/treehouse-foods-recalls-chocolate-pudding-microbial-risk/  or 800-596-2903.

 MEMBER’S MARK [Sam’s Club] FREEZE DRIED FRUIT VARIETY PACK 15 count boxes have been recalled due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Details are available at  https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/doehler-dry-ingredient-solutions-llc-recalls-members-mark-freeze-dried-fruit-variety-pack-listeria?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery  or 770-387-0451.

K-COR: 2025-4-7 Pesach Update

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2025-4-7 Pesach Update PDF

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS ARE AVAILABLE IN BOTH PESACH AND NON-PESACH VERSIONS. SOME PACKAGES WITHOUT PESACH MARKING WERE FOR A BRIEF TIME MISTAKENLY PLACED IN THE PESACH SECTION AT THE GROVE. Check every label of your purchases for Pesach marking:

  • B’GAN FLOUNDER FILLETS
  • JONA GRAVLAX-SPICE SMOKED SALMON
  • GEFEN VANILLA PUDDING 
  • LIEBER’S APPLE SAUCE
  • SHWARTZ HONEY

As advised by Rabbi Asher Eisenberger, at the time of bedikas chometz one person should be designated to go through the pantry, refrigerator, etc. to check that all products purchased for Pesach are in fact Kosher for Pesach and bear any required marking.

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 Children’s Suspension – all flavors

Advil Infants’ Drops – Grape

Allegra Allergy Children’s Liquid

Allegra Allergy Children’s 12 Hour Tablets

Bayer Low Dose and Low Dose Chewable Aspirin 

Benadryl Children’s Allergy liquid and Dye-Free liquid – Bubblegum, Cherry

Benadryl Children’s Allergy Chewable tablets – Grape

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

Kosher-Meds brand of Children’s Allergy Relief Oral Solution, Children’s Pain & Fever Acetaminophen Suspension, Children’s Ibuprofen Suspension  – OU

MiraLAX Powder – unflavored. Also any other brand of unflavored MiraLAX type powder that lists only the active ingredient Polyethylene Glycol 3350 and no inactive ingredients

Motrin Children’s Suspension – all flavors

Motrin Infants’ Drops – all flavors

Sudafed PE Children’s Nasal Decongestant liquid – Berry

Sudafed PE Children’s Cold & Cough liquid 

Tylenol Children’s Cold + Cough + Runny Nose suspension

Tylenol Children’s Cold + Cough + Sore Throat suspension

Tylenol Children’s Suspension – all flavors

Tylenol Infants’ Suspension – all flavors 

                           Remember – check every label for Pesach certification!

                                 

2025 PesachGram

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The Vaad Harabbonim presents the online PesachGram.

The PesachGram may take a moment to load and appear. Click on the bottom icon on left of frame for fullscreen.

A PDF version of the PesachGram is also available for view and download:

PesachGram PDF

K-COR: 2025-2-12 KosherGram

On By

2025-2-12 KosherGram PDF

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

  • COCA-COLA ORANGE CREAM – regular and Zero Sugar
  • SPRITE VANILLA FROST SODA  Limited Edition 

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

  • PEPSI WILD CHERRY & CREAM – regular and Zero Sugar
  • DR PEPPER BLACKBERRY – regular and Zero Sugar

AM FRESH NORTH AMERICA GRAPEFRUIT sold at Costco are produce of Israel as stated on the plastic bag closures (and on the cases – “Jaffa / Mehadrin – Israel”), and require taking of Terumos and Maaseros.

POMEGRANATES FROM ISRAEL are available in U.S. stores, and require taking of Terumos and Maaseros. Consumers should check the stickers on the individual fruit, or the original cases, for the country of origin. Pomegranates from most countries list the country name on the sticker; those that do not are very likely from Israel, and their original case must be checked in the store.

CAROUSEL’S SOFT SERVE ICERY, despite a Kosher symbol and “Kosher” claims on its website and trucks, does not have Kashrus certification of its stores or trucks. While the company may purchase a number of Kosher certified products, their certifications apply only to the products in their original sealed packaging bearing Kosher marking. There is no supervision at the store or truck level to guarantee the Kashrus of the product in the soft serve machines, or of the repackaged or loose products. 

IDAHOAN “ORIGINAL MASHED POTATOES” does not bear an OU symbol on new boxes due to a printing error, but is still certified OU Pareve. 

RICOLA THROAT DROPS: The following varieties, only when sold in bags or boxes, are recommended by the cRc [Chicago Rabbinical Council]. No marking is required. They are not recommended when sold in stick-packs.

  • Original (Natural) Herb
  • Honey Herb
  • Lemon Mint
  • Lemon Mint – Sugar Free

GREAT VALUE TACO SHELLS [Walmart] no longer bear the Kof-K symbol and are not certified, although online pictures may still show the symbol.

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS ARE CERTIFIED KOSHER DAIRY. Some labels mistakenly do not bear the D designation:

  • CASA DE COCOA DARK and MILK CHOCOLATE COVERED ALMONDS [OU-D]
  • ROLD GOLD AUNTIE ANNE’S CINNAMON SUGAR FLAVORED PRETZEL TWISTS [OU-D]
  • MOMMY KNOWS BEST LACTATION COOKIES [cRc-D]
  • PURATOS CHOCOLANTÉ DARK CHOCOLATE SHAVINGS [cRc-D]
  • BANG COOKIES [OK-D]

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS BEAR UNAUTHORIZED KASHRUS MARKING on some labels:

  • Various GUMMY CANDIES from DURHAM PECAN CO. sold at Food Lion – unauthorized Kof-K symbol. These items are not Kosher. Flavors include Summer Freedom Bears, Summer Freedom Rings and Sherbert Gummi Ice Pops.
  • TERRA VITA OIL PRODUCTS – unauthorized OU symbol.
  • OSMO CHICKEN & HERBS SALT – unauthorized OU symbol.
  • HAPPY DAY WHEY PROTEIN – unauthorized OU symbol.
  • NULU BOURBON WHISKEY – unauthorized cRc symbol on sticker.
  • NUDA TEQUILA – all products – unauthorized OK symbol.
  • CUCINA VIVA frozen QUARTERED ARTICHOKE HEARTS – unauthorized Star-K symbol. The Star-K does not certify artichoke hearts due to insect infestation.
  • LOCAL ROOTS KOMBUCHA Tea products – unauthorized EarthKosher symbol.
  • HIGHVIBE MUSHROOMS products – unauthorized EarthKosher symbol.

PRODUCT RECALLS and WARNINGS

NUGO DARK CHOCOLATE CHIP and NUGO DARK CHOCOLATE PRETZEL PROTEIN BARS, certified OU Pareve, have been recalled due to the presence of undeclared milk, which poses a serious health risk for consumers with dairy allergies or severe sensitivities. Details are available at        https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lifestyle-evolution-voluntarily-recalls-nugo-dark-chocolate-chip-and-nugo-dark-pretzel-due or 888-421-2032. According to the OU, the small amount of milk is an allergen concern, but does not affect the Kashrus status.

TRADER JOE’S, GENOVA, VAN CAMP’S and H-E-B brands of CANNED TUNA PRODUCTS have been recalled due to possible contamination with clostridium botulinum, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning. Details are available at https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tri-union-seafoods-issues-recall-of-select-genova-van-camps-h-e-b-and-trader-joes-tuna-cans-due-to-clostridium-botulinum-risk-302371717.html or 833-374-0171.

CPSC warning: HAIYEATBNB ELECTRIC IMMERSION WATER HEATERS sold on Amazon pose a risk of serious injury and death due to fire and burn hazards. Details are available at https://www.cpsc.gov/Warnings/2025/CPSC-Warns-Consumers-to-Immediately-Stop-Using-HAIYEATBNB-Electric-Immersion-Water-Heaters-Sold-on-Amazon-com-Due-to-Fire-and-Burn-Hazards-Risk-of-Serious-Injury-and-Death 

K-COR: 2024-11-7 KosherGram

On By

2024-11-7 KosherGram PDF

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

  • DR PEPPER CREAMY COCONUT Limited Edition – regular and Zero Sugar 
  • MOUNTAIN DEW VOO DEW 2024 MYSTERY FLAVOR Limited Edition – regular and Zero Sugar 
  • 7-UP S.T. POMEGRANATE & CHERRY Limited Edition – regular and Zero Sugar

BASKIN-ROBBINS “NON-DAIRY” ICE CREAM & SORBET FLAVORS, including Non-Dairy Cookies ‘n Crème, Non-Dairy Mint ChocoChunk,  Daiquiri Ice, and Lemon Sorbet, are certified Star-D Dairy. The Star-K has confirmed that these products should be considered Dairy, and  not only Dairy Equipment [DE].  

L’OVEN FRESH [Aldi] SWIRL RAISIN CINNAMON BREAD with a computer generated OU symbol is OU certified (not Pas Yisroel). 

ALDI SUPPLIER CHANGES: Following are some examples of Aldi products that no longer bear an OU in certain regions, due to changes in  suppliers. In other areas they may still bear an OU; check each label.  

  • BURMAN’S TOMATO KETCHUP {Detroit area] 
  • EARTHLY GRAINS LONG GRAIN & WILD RICE MIX – ROASTED VEGETABLE & CHICKEN FLAVORED  
  • MILLVILLE BRAN FLAKES [Detroit and NJ; product of Germany] 
  • MILLVILLE KOOKIES CEREAL [NJ; product of Germany] 
  • MILLVILLE COCOA PEANUT BUTTER PUFFS CEREAL [NJ; product of Germany]

GREAT VALUE [Walmart] TOMATO KETCHUP – regular: Some bottles bear an OU, while others do not. Check each bottle. 

WELLSLEY FARMS [BJ’s] COCKTAIL BEEF FRANKS IN PASTRY is no longer Kosher and does not bear an OU, due to a change in suppliers. 

KRAFT NATURAL CHEESE STRING CHEESE products will no longer be OU certified, and will not bear an OU-D symbol on new packages.  

NATURE NATE’S POPPED SORGHUM products’ OU certification has been terminated due to Kashrus violations. All products, even when  bearing the OU symbol, are not certified. [Note that Nature Nate’s Honey is made by a different company and is OU certified when  bearing the OU symbol.]  

VICTORIA MIXED PICKLES S.L. (SPAIN) products’ Star-K certification has been terminated for all products due to Kashrus violations.  

GALIL ISRAELI MEDJOOL DATES with Beis Din Minchas Chinuch certification have been found to be infested on the outside with mites  and require a thorough washing of the outside flesh, in addition to the regular checking methods recommended for dates.  

FRONTIER BAKERY PUNJABI COOKIES sold at Costco with a COR [Canada] symbol are pareve. The milk ingredient listed on the label is  an error.  

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS CONTAIN DAIRY INGREDIENTS and are certified Kosher Dairy. Some labels mistakenly do not bear the D  designation:  

  • BAKER’S TREAT [Aldi] APPLE CINNAMON MINI MUFFINS and PUMPKIN SPICE MINI MUFFINS [OU-D] 
  • MEIJER GLAZED MAPLE PECANS [OK-D] 

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS BEAR UNAUTHORIZED KASHRUS MARKING on some labels:  

  • INSPIRED ORGANICS frozen ORGANIC CUT SPINACH (Warren, MI) – unauthorized cRc symbol. 
  • CLEVELAND MAYONNAISE CHIPOTLE MAYO – unauthorized OU symbol (and dairy). 
  • DULET WHEY POWDER – unauthorized DK symbol.  
  • Y&B SPRING ROLLS – unauthorized Kosher symbol, not Kosher. 
  • NORTHEAST QUARTERED ARTICHOKE HEARTS [Foodservice #10 cans] – unauthorized Star-K symbol. 
  • ZANDER MILK CHOCOLATE GUMMY BEARS – unauthorized Kof-K symbol, not Kosher. 
  • FITJOY brand CRACKER ROUNDS – CLASSIC, CHEEZY WHITE CHEDDAR, and PEPPER JACK – unauthorized Kof-K symbol, not Kosher.
  • ORGANIC TRADITIONS WHITE MULBERRIES and ORGANIC TRADITIONS GOJI BERRIES – unauthorized OU symbol. 
  • BREWLI TEA PRODUCTS – unauthorized Earth K symbol.

PRODUCT RECALLS 

FROZEN WAFFLE and PANCAKE PRODUCTS under more than 40 brand names have been recalled due to the potential for Listeria  monocytogenes contamination, including Breakfast Best [Aldi], Clover Valley [Dollar General], Good & Gather [Target], Great Value [Walmart],  Kroger, Trader Joe’s, and many others. Details are available at https://www.treehousefoods.com/news-and-media/press-release-details/2024/TreeHouse-Foods-Announces Expansion-of-Voluntary-Recall-to-Include-All-Waffle-and-Pancake-Products-Due-to-the-Potential-for-Listeria-monocytogenes-Contamination/default.aspx or 800-596-2903.  

KODIAK POWER WAFFLES BUTTERMILK & VANILLA 40 ct (Use By Date: 01/10/26, Lot: 24193-WL4) sold at Costco has been recalled due to  contamination with pieces of plastic film. Details are available at https://kodiakcakes.com/pages/frequently-asked-questions?_pos=1&_sid=23061d3c9&_ss=r or 801-328- 4067. 

K-COR: 2024-9-27 KosherGram

On By

2024-9-27 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, SAY CHEESE, SUGAR & CRUST 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. that bear the K-COR symbol are Pas  Yisroel*. Note that Kordas’ Greek Style Pita Bread and Kordas’ English Muffins are not K-COR certified.

[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*. However, bags that bear an OU or Kosher Check symbol are not Pas Yisroel.
  • SPECIALLY SELECTED brand SMALL BATCH SOURDOUGH LOAF, SMALL BATCH ITALIAN LOAF, ITALIAN BREAD and any other Specially Selected breads at Aldi that bear a Scroll K symbol are Pas Yisroel, and state “P.Y.” under the symbol in fine print. [Note that some Specially Selected breads bear other symbols and may not be Pas Yisroel, and some bear no certification at all.]
  • 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 HOLIDAY CHALLAH – TRADITIONAL 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.]

  • 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, Country White Bread. Other S. Rosen’s products with an OU are Pas Yisroel per the glow-bar method*.
  • NATURAL OVENS BAKERY KETO-FRIENDLY WHITE BREAD with an OU ink jetted on the individually wrapped loaves (available at Costco) is 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 a plain OK symbol are “Pas Yisroel”*, as stated on the label. Those that bear OK-D are not Pas Yisroel.

   * 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 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, which may indicate an insect beneath the thin peel.  If any are found, 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.]

                           We Wish All a K’siva v’Chasima Tova

K-COR: 2024-8-21 KosherGram

On By

2024-8-21 KosherGram PDF

THE CHODOSH SEASON is approaching for Oats, Spring Wheat and Barley. 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.

According to the Kashrus Agencies, all products can be assumed to be Yoshon until at least September 1, except for retail size bags of King Arthur and Gold Medal flours. The cut-off Best By date for King Arthur retail flours is 8/18/25. The cut-off Best By date for Gold Medal retail Whole Wheat flour is in the process of being confirmed. (Gold Medal retail All Purpose and Bread flours from plants GF and KC are made from Yoshon winter wheat. If one is machmir regarding shared mills, the cut-off date is in the process of being confirmed.)   

KORDAS’ / METROPOLITAN BAKING CO. ENGLISH MUFFINS are produced by a different company and are not certified by the K-COR / Vaad Harabbonim of Greater Detroit. Only Kordas’ / Metropolitan products that bear the K-COR symbol are certified.

MORE MULTIPLE SUPPLIERS EXAMPLES AT ALDI: The following products currently have a mixture on the shelf of some labels with an OU and some without, due to different suppliers. Always check each individual item carefully.

  • BURMAN’S TOMATO KETCHUP
  • EARTHLY GRAINS LONG GRAIN & WILD RICE MIX – ROASTED VEGETABLE & CHICKEN FLAVORED

KELLOGG’S CLUB CRACKERS – CORRECTION: Kellogg’s Club MINIS Crackers with OK-D, in both Original and Parmesan Garlic varieties, contain actual dairy ingredients, as listed on the box. Only regular size [not Minis] Kellogg’s Club Crackers with  OK-D, in Original, Multigrain and Reduced Fat varieties, are currently DE [Dairy Equipment], but this status is subject to change and should be rechecked with the OK office every few months. Kellogg’s Club Crisps Baked Snacks with OK-D contain dairy ingredients.

COCA-COLA OREO ZERO SUGAR Limited Edition soda, to be introduced in September, is Kosher and pareve and will bear an OU engraved into the can lid.  

COCA-COLA OREO ZERO SUGAR FCB Slurpee syrup, to be introduced later in September, is Kosher and pareve (no symbol required). The label on the syrup box in the back of the 7-Eleven store should be checked to verify the brand and flavor, unless the particular store has local store level Kashrus certification of its Slurpee machine(s).

JELLY BELLY CANDIES: Due to a change at one of its factories, all Jelly Belly products sold outside of North America, and some limited production items (mostly seasonal items) in North America, will soon appear in packaging without an OU symbol. Check each item.

HALE & HEARTY SOUPS are no longer Kosher certified. The OU symbol on remaining containers is supposed to be blacked out with a marker. Consumers who see product in the market with the OU not blacked out should please take a picture and email kosherq@ou.org, noting the location.

GALIL canned and jarred CHICKPEAS with Lot code BB May/06/2027 have been found to be infested and should not be used.

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS CONTAIN DAIRY INGREDIENTS and are certified Kosher Dairy. Some labels mistakenly do not bear the D designation:

  • KETTLE brand SPICY PIMENTO CHEESE FLAVORED POTATO CHIPS [Kof-K Dairy] – mistakenly says Pareve.
  • LIBERTY ORCHARDS CHOCOLATE-DIPPED FRUIT DELIGHTS [Kof-K Dairy] – mistakenly says DE.

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS BEAR UNAUTHORIZED KASHRUS MARKING on some labels:

  • BENHAIM WINERY VIN HORS SERIES LA CUVEE DU PATRON 2003 wine marked ‘תאריך מילוי 02/2023’ – unauthorized OK.
  • MAVERICKS brand CHEDDAR SANDWICH CRACKERS and PEANUT BUTTER SANDWICH CRACKERS – unauthorized OU.
  • ACTUAL VEGGIES brand EGGPLANT CHICKPEA VEGGIE BALLS and SOUTHWESTERN BLACK BEAN VEGGIE BALLS – unauthorized EarthKosher symbol.                 

PRODUCT RECALLS 

YUMMY ICES have been recalled because they may contain traces of milk and pose a risk to individuals with milk allergies or severe sensitivities. According to the certifying agencies, this is not a Kashrus concern, and the products are considered pareve. Details are available at https://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/general/2302902/recall-alert-yummy-foods-pulls-swirly-ices-line-due-to-potential-milk-contamination.html 

FOX’S U-BET brand VANILLA FLAVORED SYRUP and SUGAR-FREE CHOCOLATE FLAVORED SYRUP have been recalled due to a risk of foodborne illness. Details are available at https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2024/08/vanilla-and-chocolate-syrup-recalled-after-consumer-complaints-of-bloated-bottles/ .

CVS and HEB brands of INFANT PREMIUM FORMULA WITH IRON have been recalled due to elevated levels of Vitamin D. Details are available at https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/perrigo-issues-voluntary-recall-one-batch-premium-infant-formula-iron-milk-based-powder-due-elevated#recall-photos  or 800-538-9543.

KASHRUS NOTICE 5/17/24 – Aldi’s Little Salad Bar salads, Dole and Walmart’s Marketside Shredded Lettuce, Kroger Salads

On By

LITTLE SALAD BAR brand of Garden Salad and Shredded Lettuce sold at Aldi stores in the Detroit area no longer bears the OK symbol and is not Kosher certified, due to a change in suppliers, and is not recommended. In other areas these may still bear certification; check each bag.

DOLE and MARKETSIDE [Walmart] brands of Shredded Lettuce currently do not bear the OK symbol on many bags, in particular those dated 7-31, 8-1 and 8-2. We have ascertained that these bags are not certified Kosher and are not recommended. Check each bag.

KROGER SALADS: Kroger brand salads in the Detroit area do not bear a recommended certification.

KASHRUS NOTICE 5/17/24

On By

OASIS MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE BULGAR WHEAT is no longer Star-K certified, and no longer bears the
Star-K symbol. Some packages were mistakenly sold recently at The Grove.

[Note: Oasis Mediterranean Cuisine Taboule Salad is also no longer Star-K certified, as reported last year.]

K-COR: 2024-5-14 KosherGram

On By

2024-5-14 KosherGram PDF

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

  • MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA POINT BREAK PUNCH Limited Edition
  • MOUNTAIN DEW BAJA LAGUNA LEMONADE Limited Edition
  • CANADA DRY “FRUIT SPLASH” CHERRY GINGER ALE – regular and Zero Sugar

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

  • COCA-COLA SPICED – regular and Zero Sugar
  • SPRITE CHILL CHERRY LIME Limited Edition – regular and Zero Sugar

New FRUITWORKS “PEACH GINGER LEMONADE” FREEZE FCB Slurpee syrup is Kosher and pareve (no symbol required). The label on the syrup box in the back of the store must be checked to verify the brand and flavor. 

KATZ GLUTEN FREE OAT BREAD and OAT ROLLS mistakenly state that the bracha is ‘Shehakol’. The correct bracha for these products is ‘Hamotzi’.

DUNKIN’ CHOCOLATE CHUNK COOKIES: Certifiers of Kosher DUNKIN’ DONUTS STORES should be aware that the “KD” on the label of these cookies is a non-Orthodox certification.

The following products are not certified Kosher, but bear unauthorized Kashrus marking on some labels:

  • FLORA ALFREDO SAUCE – unauthorized OK symbol.
  • TONGMASTER SEASONINGS SAUSAGE CASINGS – unauthorized OK symbol.
  • EDIBLE COLLAGEN CASINGS – unauthorized Vaad HaKashrus Belz USA certificate.
  • NATURE NATE’S POPPED SORGHUM (all varieties) – unauthorized OU symbol displayed online. [If you find actual packages in the store with an OU, please send details to kosherq@ou.org ]
  • IL PALAZZO PROSECCO SPARKLING WINE – unauthorized OU symbol on the seal. [If you find this product, please send details to kosherq@ou.org ]
  • OMAHA STEAKS SALT & PEPPER SEASONING – unauthorized OU symbol.
  • MR. NUT DRIED MULBERRY – unauthorized Star-K symbol.

PRODUCT RECALLS and WARNINGS 

MARTINELLI’S GOLD MEDAL APPLE JUICE in one liter bottles with a Best By date of 09MAR2026 or 10MAR2026 on the front of the bottle (above the label) has been recalled due to elevated arsenic levels. Details are available at https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2024/05/martinellis-gold-medal-apple-juice-recalled-over-elevated-arsenic-levels/ or 800-662-1868.

HELADOS MEXICO ICE CREAM MINIS VARIETY PACK with a Best By date of 10/11/2025 has been recalled due to potential Salmonella contamination in the Mango bars. Details are available at https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tropicale-foods-recalls-helados-mexico-mini-cream-variety-pack-because-possible-health-risk  or 909-563-3090.

TIDE, GAIN, ACE and ARIEL brands of LIQUID LAUNDRY DETERGENT PODS have been recalled due to defective packaging that poses risk of serious injury. Details are available at https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Procter-Gamble-Recalls-8-2-Million-Defective-Bags-of-Tide-Gain-Ace-and-Ariel-Laundry-Detergent-Packets-Distributed-in-US-Due-to-Risk-of-Serious-Injury or 833-347-5764.

ROLLER BALL CANDY TYPE PRODUCTS: The candy’s rolling ball can dislodge and become trapped in a child’s throat, posing a fatal choking risk. See https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2024/CPSC-Warns-Consumers-to-Immediately-Stop-Purchasing-and-Using-All-Roller-Ball-Candy-Type-Products-Due-to-Choking-Hazard-One-Death-Reported

WATER BEADS are a danger to young children & can be deadly if swallowed. See CPSC warning at https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Toys-Crafts-Water-Beads/Water-Beads-A-Danger-to-Young-Children-Can-Be-Deadly-if-Swallowed?utm_campaign=&utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=20240319