December Update
Kashrus Alert
Please be advised that Rawmio Mini Truffle Cake (5oz), manufactured by Windy City Organics, bears an unauthorized EarthKosher symbol. If you see this product for sale, please email kashrusadmin@earthkosher.com noting the location.
Corrective action has been taken.
1750 30th Street #613, Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: (888) 312-3559 •
Email: kashrusadmin@earthkosher.com •
Website:
earthkosher.com
Senior Kashrus Administrator: Rabbi Sholom H. Adler
Chief Executive Officer: Rabbi Yehuda Goldman
From Rabbi Eidlitz – Cheshvon 2025
Kosher Alerts – חשון תשפ"ו
Great Value No Crust Sandwiches Hazelnut Spread with Cocoa
Issue: Missing DAIRY Symbol
This product is certified Kosher DAIRY; however, the packaging mistakenly identifies the product as Pareve.
Note: Peanut Butter & Strawberry and Peanut Butter & Grape Jelly flavors are correctly labeled as Kosher Pareve. Corrective action is being taken.
Kosher Alert – Lidl Vitasia Kimchi
Product: Vitasia Kimchi
Company: Lidl US, LLC
Issue: Unauthorized Use of OK
Vitasia Kimchi, sold by Lidl, bears an unauthorized OK symbol on the lid. This product is not kosher. Corrective actions are being taken.
OU Alert – Pho'nomenal Chips
Product: Jackfruit Chips
Company: Pho'nomenal Chips, Bellevue WA
Issue: Unauthorized OU
The Orthodox Union does not certify Pho'nomenal Jackfruit Chips. Some bags are labeled with an unauthorized OU mark. Corrective actions have been implemented.
OU Alert – Carm's Farm Tomato Sauces
Product: Fra Diavolo Tomato Sauce
Issue: Unauthorized OU
The Orthodox Union does not certify any Carm's Farm products. Some Carm's Farm Fra Diavolo tomato sauce labels bear an unauthorized OU mark. Corrective actions are being implemented.
OU Alert – Zoomi Candy Products
Brand: Zoomi
Product: All Zoomi candy products
Company: SW Wholesale Inc., Bridgeview IL
Issue: Unauthorized OU
The Orthodox Union does not certify any Zoomi candy products. Some of their candy products bear an unauthorized OU mark. Corrective actions are being implemented.
cRc Kashrus Alert – Selah Beverages Corp
Company: Selah Beverages Corp (drinkselah.com)
Issue: No longer certified by cRc
Please be advised that, effective immediately, Selah Beverages Corp is no longer certified as kosher under the Chicago Rabbinical Council. Products produced before 9/26/25 are correctly labeled with the cRc Kosher logo.
STAR-K Alert – SUN Q Cauliflower & Giardiniera
Date: October 24, 2025
Products: SUN Q Cauliflower in Brine and SUN Q Mild Giardiniera
Producer: Quartet USA Inc., Jersey City, NJ
Issue: Unauthorized STAR-K Symbol
These jars, produced in Turkey and imported by Quartet USA Inc., bear an unauthorized STAR-K symbol. Corrective action is being taken.
Pas Yisroel during Aseres Yimei Teshuva
אלול — Guidance for Aseres Yimei Teshuva: Pas Akum, Pas Yisroel, and Rosh Hashana
By Rabbi Eliezer Eidlitz
- During Aseres Yimei Teshuva, the minhag is to be especially careful to eat Pas Yisroel.
- Halachic bread categories: Pas Yisroel, Pas Akum, and Pas Palter (bakery bread); Pas Palter is generally allowed year-round when equal-quality Pas Yisroel is unavailable, but many refrain during these days.
- Extensive lists of brands with Pas Yisroel certification (Kof-K, OU, STAR-K) are included below—always verify on the label.
- Rosh Hashana Simanim: symbolic foods and the timing/order of brachos and Yehi Ratzon.
Pas Akum & the Minhag of Pas Yisroel
During the Aseres Yimei Teshuva, there is a longstanding tradition—based on the Tur and Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim, Siman 603) from the Yerushalmi—to be especially careful with consuming Pas Yisroel when bread (etc.) contains wheat, barley, rye, spelt, or oats. The custom is to eat exclusively Pas Yisroel during this period, reflecting heightened stringency and mindfulness.
To understand this minhag, consider the background: with cooked food by a non-Jew (Bishul Akum), it is not permitted unless a Jew participates in the cooking—an enactment to remain cordial yet avoid overly close relationships. Originally, Chazal wished to apply a similar distinction to bread (Avodah Zarah opening). Since bread is a staple (about 80% of the world consumes bread; the average American eats over 64 pounds per year), Chazal sought a solution and distinguished between categories:
- Pas Yisroel — Bread baked or finished by a Jew (many allow even in a non–Shomer Shabbos Jew’s home).
- Pas Akum — Bread baked by a non-Jew in a private home, which may foster closeness (concern of intermarriage).
- Pas Palter — Bakery bread (commercial/anonymous baker), which does not engender a close relationship.
Most of the year, if equal-quality Pas Yisroel is not available, one may consume Pas Palter from a company or bakery. However, during Aseres Yemei Teshuva we demonstrate our desire to keep Pas Yisroel year-round by going out of our way to eat only Pas Yisroel. Many are also careful on Shabbos and Yom Tov.
Pas Yisroel Rolls & Breads: Certified Brands & Products
Kof-K
The following are certified as Pas Yisroel—note the exceptions and label requirements indicated:
- Anthony & Sons: All products except Pullman style breads (bag or wax paper).
- Automatic Rolls of Baltimore: All except English Muffins.
- Automatic Rolls of NJ: All except English Muffins.
- Bake Rite Rolls: All except English Muffins.
- Bread Alone: Only breads and rolls; pastries/sweet goods are not certified by Kof-K.
- Canada Bread: Certified only when lot code includes letters PY.
- Crispy Bagel: All products.
- Food For Life: All except pita (“Prophet Pockets”) and flake cereals.
- Gabillas Food Products: All products.
- H&S Bakery: All except English Muffins.
- Hauswald's: All products.
- JJ Cassones: Only breads and rolls; pastries/sweet goods are not Kof-K; bagels are kosher but not Pas Yisroel.
- Kerry Ingredient Co.: Select items; contact Kof-K.
- Mid Atlantic Baking: All products.
- Nanas Cookie Co.: All products.
- Oberlander Bakery: All products.
- Orthodox Bakery: All products.
- Schmidt Baking: All except English Muffins.
- Scottos: All products.
- Streits: All products.
- Tofutti Brands: All products.
- Tristate Buns: Certified only when letters TSB appear in the lot code.
OU Pas Yisroel List
Always check labels for details (Pas Yisroel/Yoshon) and symbols. Sample entries include:
- Loacker: All products are Pas Yisroel.
- Abadi Bakery: All items.
- Acme [Albertson’s] (FSE): Milltown, NJ & Narberth, PA fresh baked products.
- Aladdin Bakers: Bagels, pizza bagels, rolls, breads, pitas, baguettes, wraps, breadsticks (with Pas Yisroel sticker).
- Amnon’s Kosher Pizza: Frozen pizza (cholov yisroel).
- Angel’s Bakery: All products (bearing OU).
- Barry’s Bakery: Café/French Twists (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Barth: Crackers.
- Barton’s: Chocolate covered matza.
- Blinzi: Calzones, pizzas, bagels, bread sticks, pretzels.
- Bloom’s: All cookies.
- Bloom’s/Temptatatious: All cookies.
- Boundbrook Shoprite (FSE): All in-house prepared foods are Pas Yisroel and Yoshon.
- Brian’s All Natural: Calzones.
- Brickfire Bakery: Plain sliced mini bagels.
- Burnt Offerings – Las Vegas (FSE): All products.
- Burry Foodservice: NY-style boiled bagels (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Busco Bagels: All bagels.
- Carr’s: Crackers produced in Carlisle, UK.
- Ceor: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Chef’s Wonder: Bread crumbs and matzo meal.
- Chow & Ciao: All products.
- Continental Pastry: Cakes and cookies.
- Coppenrath: Assorted baked goods (with lot-specific letter).
- Dagim: All products.
- Daily Pita: All pita bread.
- Dame Blanche: Chocolate/Vanilla biscuits.
- David Elliot: Breaded chicken.
- David’s Cookies: All pareve products.
- David’s Gluten Free: All products.
- Delacre: Cookies.
- DIJAS: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Diplomat Catering (FSE): All products.
- Dream Pretzels: Pressels/Pretzel chips.
- East Brunswick Shoprite (FSE): All in-house prepared foods Pas Yisroel & Yoshon.
- East Windsor Shoprite (FSE): Same as above.
- Einat: Breadcrumbs, croutons.
- Elite: Biscuits.
- Elsa’s Story: Cookies, crackers, pastries (not cholov yisroel).
- Falafel Tanami (FSE): All products.
- Fat Badger Bakery: Assorted baked goods (lot letter or label states Pas Yisroel).
- Fischer Brothers & Leslie (FSE): Challah/rolls; chicken nuggets; fried breast meat.
- Fourre Sandwich: Chocolate/Lemon/Strawberry/Vanilla biscuits.
- Fresh (Amazon Brand): Bagels.
- Friedman’s: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Gafnit: Challah and bread.
- Gefen: Crackers; cookies; whole-wheat bread crumbs (yoshon); matzoh (yoshon); ice cream cones.
- Gelbstein’s Bakery: All products.
- Glatt Kosher Wholesalers/Bingo: All products.
- Golden Fluff: Pretzels; cookies; animal crackers (also yoshon).
- Grandpa’s “Old Southern” Coffee Cake: All baked items.
- Grandpa’s International Bakery: Breads.
- Green Ribbon: Cookies.
- Guiltless Gourmet: Wraps.
- Hadar: Assorted biscuits.
- Haddar: All products.
- Hamotzi: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Heaven Food: All products.
- Holiday Brand: Chocolate covered matza.
- Horowitz Margartetn: Matzah products.
- Howie and Sally’s: Biscotti.
- J & P: Pita bread.
- Jack Bates: All products.
- Jake’s Bakes: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Jason: Breadcrumbs.
- Jeff Nathan: Panko bread crumbs.
- Jerusalem Sweets: Baklava, Bazrazek, Gariba, Haressa, Mamoul, Nabulse (bearing Pas Yisroel on label).
- Jewel-Osco [Albertson’s] (FSE): Bread and kosher cakes (Evanston & Highland Park, IL).
- Just Bagels: All bagels (bearing OU).
- Katz’s Gluten Free: Oat challah rolls.
- Kedem: Cookies; cereal bars; tea biscuits (also yoshon); crackers (also yoshon).
- Kem Kem: Crackers.
- Kemach Food Products: Pas Yisroel & Yoshon when indicated.
- KJ Poultry: Breaded chicken nuggets.
- Kola Farangi (FSE): All products.
- Koopmans Foodcoatings: Breadcrumbs only.
- Kosherific: Fish stick.
- L’Esti Desserts: Cakes and pastries.
- La Gondola (FSE): All products.
- La Marguerite & Co.: All products.
- Lachmi: All products.
- Lago Group SPA: In Israel with lot-specific LOC & special label.
- Lakewood Kollel: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Lang’s: Breads, rolls, and bagels.
- Laromme: All pareve products.
- Laurieri: In Israel with lot-specific LOC & special label.
- Maadanot: Bourekas, malawah, pizza squares.
- Macabee: Pizza Bagel (cholov yisroel).
- Maison Valero: All products.
- Manischewitz Co.: Tam tams (yoshon); Italian coating crumbs (yoshon); cake mixes; all matzah products (yoshon).
- Mansura: When on the label.
- Marlboro Shoprite (FSE): All in-house prepared foods are Pas Yisroel & Yoshon.
- Masbia: All products.
- Matzot Carmel: Matzah.
- McVities: In Israel with lot-specific LOC or when written on label.
- Meal Mart: All products.
- Meat Cafe (FSE): All products.
- Mendelson’s Pizza: Pizza (cholov yisroel) and breads.
- Miami Onion Rolls: All products.
- Milk ‘N Honey (FSE): All products.
- Mishpacha: All products.
- Mother’s: Matzah products.
- Mountain Fruit: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Mrs. Adler’s: Matzah products.
- Mrs. Pure’s Gold Label: Coconut Crisp Cookies (bearing Pas Yisroel).
- Natural Coffee: Coffee cakes.
- Natural Ovens: White wheat bread; keto friendly bread.
- Navaz Catering (FSE): All products.
- Neptune Shoprite (FSE): All in-house prepared foods Pas Yisroel & Yoshon.
- Neri’s: Breads & bagels.
- NES Catering (FSE): All products.
- NY Brooklyn Bread: All products.
- Of Tov: Chicken breast nuggets.
- Only Oats: Cookies.
- Orion: Plain/cinnamon raisin par-baked “Hot Stuff” bagels.
- Osem: All products.
- Ostreicher’s: All products.
- Pat’s (FSE): All products.
- Patis Bakery: Wholesale/retail—all products (yoshon; cholov yisroel).
- PF Bakeries: Pita; pita chips; challahs.
- Pita Express: Pita bread.
- Prime Events by Mindel (FSE): All products.
- Quality Food Industries: Croutons.
- Raft Foods: Croutons.
- Ralph’s Grocery – Sherman Oaks (FSE): All fresh products from the Kosher bakery.
- Ralph’s Grocery – LA – South La Brea (FSE): Same.
- Reisman Bros. Bakery: Cakes, cookies, rugalach.
- Riviera: All products.
- Rokeach: Hamentashen (Pareve & Pas Yisroel only); cookies; soup nuts.
- Royal Bakery House: Bread (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- S. Rosen: Multi-grain; 9-grain; sourdough; county white; Hawaiian rolls.
- Sadaf: Wafers.
- Saffron Culinary East Rockaway (FSE): All products.
- Shapiro’s: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
- Shefa Foods: All products.
- Shibolim: Biscotti and cracker sticks.
- ShopRite of Aberdeen (FSE): All in-house prepared foods Pas Yisroel & Yoshon.
- ShopRite of Lawrenceville (FSE): Same.
- Short Cake: Friesengold biscuits.
- Smashhouse (FSE): All products.
- Smilowitz: Pas Yisroel rolls, cookies, cakes, breads.
- Snyders of Hanover Israeli Products Only: All pretzels imported to Israel.
- Tabernacle (FSE): All products.
- Table d’Hôte: All rolls and baguettes.
- The Korner (FSE): All products.
- Tierra Sur (FSE): All products.
- Tovli: Blintzes, pizza, knishes (frozen packaged).
- Trader Joe’s: Challah; chocolate babka; mango babka; pumpkin spice babka; half-moon cookies; raspberry rugelach.
- Trastevere Restaurant (FSE): All products.
- Universal Foods: Breadcrumbs.
- Vicenzi: In Israel with lot-specific LOC and special label.
- Voortman Cookies: Sugar-free cookies in Israel with lot-specific LOC.
- Wednesday: All products.
- Wein’s: All products.
- Yumi’s: All products (when label states Pas Yisroel).
For specific product certification, always check labels for Pas Yisroel, Yoshon, or other kosher designations as noted.
STAR-K Pas Yisroel List
- Accents: All except saltine crackers.
- Ateres Elka: All except hot dog buns.
- Candy Store: All products.
- Caramel’s Pizza: All products.
- Cocoaccinos/Pie 18: All except saltine crackers.
- Croustille Bakery: All products.
- A David Chu’s China Bistro: Inquire in store.
- Delightfully Sweet: Upon request, all products.
- Goldberg’s Kosher Bagels: All except saltine crackers.
- Ikonic Confections: All products.
- Knish Shop: All products.
- Kosher Bite/KB Szechuan: Upon request; all except crackers.
- Mama Leah’s Gourmet Pizza: All except saltine crackers.
- Mangal Food Truck: All products.
- Market Maven: All products (Bakery, Fish, Sushi & Takeout).
- Milk and Honey Bistro: Pizza, pasta, blintzes, and soups are Yoshon; others upon request.
- O’Fishel Caterers: Challah, rolls, cholent; inquire for others.
- Pariser’s Bakery: All products.
- Playa Bowls: Granola and oatmeal are not Yoshon; not considered pas items.
- Pretty Sweet Confections: All products.
- Pride of the Farm (Cookie Dough Ice Cream): All products.
- Rosendorff’s: All products; check label for status.
- Royal Restaurant: Upon request; inquire about specific items.
- Serengeti: All except some breads and saltine crackers.
- Seven Mile Market: Items made in Dairy, Deli, and Fish departments—including sushi—are all Pas Yisroel.
- Sion’s Bakery: All products.
- Sweet and Good Catering: Upon request, all products.
- Taam Thai: All except some desserts.
- The Club: All products.
- Yesh: All products.
- Yossi’s Lafa Milia: All products.
Rosh Hashana Simanim: Customs & Halachic Details
The Gemaras in Horios and Kerisus (6a) highlight the significance of symbolism on Rosh Hashana. Abaye teaches סימנא מילתא היא; we set out Simanim (symbolic foods) to express our desire for a good year granted by Hashem.
Traditional Simanim include gourd, fenugreek, leek, beets, dates, and the head of an animal or fish. Rashi explains these are chosen because they grow quickly and are sweet—symbolizing a year of growth and sweetness. According to the Gra, Rashi means the fruits are either quick-growing or sweet—both desired blessings.
The Tur notes that the names of these foods allude to good things—for example, Rubia (fenugreek) suggesting an increase in merits (Yirbu Zechuyosainu) and Tamri (dates) hinting at the end of adversaries (Yitamu Sonosainu). Some poskim add that any food whose name can be read as a positive omen may serve as a valid Siman.
Timing & Practice of Simanim
- Maharil: Eat Simanim immediately after Kiddush; make Borei Pri Ha’etz on the apple.
- Magen Avraham, Taz, Mishnah Berurah: Recite the brachos after Hamotzi.
- Elya Rabbah, Sha’arei Teshuva, Mateh Ephraim, Ben Ish Chai, Kaf HaChaim: Observe Simanim on both nights of Rosh Hashana.
- Magen Avraham, Taz, Elya Rabbah, Mishnah Berurah: First make the bracha on the fruit, eat a portion, then recite Yehi Ratzon. Elya Rabbah notes that b’diavad, reciting Yehi Ratzon is not a hefsek.
כתיבה וחתימה טובה
Kosher Food Additives
Ingredients & Additives — What “Natural Flavoring” May Be Hiding
Many ingredients are hidden by manufacturers through legal loopholes. “Natural flavoring” may simply mean a product tastes like the original source. “Artificial flavoring” often means it is not the way HKBH made it—hence, artificial. Grape juice used for flavoring or sweetening is often hidden inside a label’s “natural flavors.”
(Continued from last week)
- “Natural flavors” can conceal animal-, dairy-, or grape-derived ingredients.
- Some additives are kosher and pareve (sometimes needing supervision), while others are not kosher.
- Always check ingredient sources and look for reliable kosher supervision on processed foods.
INGREDIENTS & ADDITIVES (many listed simply as “Natural Flavoring”)
- Acetic Acid — Source: plant juices, milk, oil, petroleum, sometimes muscles; final product of many aerobic fermentations. Status: when from petroleum, kosher, pareve (with supervision).
- Agar Agar — Source: seaweed. Use: substitute for gelatin (in creams and confectionery). Status: kosher, pareve.
- Albumin — Sources: blood (serum albumin), milk (dairy), eggs. Use: coagulant and stiffener in baked goods. Status: requires supervision.
- Alginate — Source: seaweed. Forms: calcium alginate, alginic acid, sodium alginate, propylene glycol alginate. Uses: thickener/stabilizer in pastry, jelly, ice cream, cheese, candy, yogurt, canned frosting, whipped cream, beer. Status: kosher, pareve.
- Alginic Acid — See: alginate.
- Alpha Amylase — Source: hog pancreas. Use: in flour (breaks down starches) and in medications. Status: not kosher.
- Alum (Aluminum Sulfate) — Source: earth; also called cake alum/patent alum. Use: clarifying oils and fats. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Ambergris — Source: whale intestine. Use: flavoring; also in perfume. Status: not kosher.
- Anise — Source: fruit of an herb (parsley family). Use: flavoring foods and beverages. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Argol — Source: sediment in wine casks during fermentation/storage. Use: manufacture of tartaric acid and malt vinegar. See also: cream of tartar; tartaric acid.
- Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) — Source: synthetic or corn. Use: nutrient. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Ascorbate Palmitate — Source: synthetic and palm oil. Use: preservative. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Benzoic Acid — Source: synthetic. Use: preservative. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) — Source: synthetic. Use: antioxidant in cereals, stabilizers, shortenings, potato flakes/granules. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision when in corn oil).
- BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) — Source: synthetic. Use: antioxidant in beverages, desserts, cereals, glazed fruits, dry drink mixes, potato flakes/granules. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision when in corn oil).
- Calcium Alginate — See: alginate.
- Calcium Carbonate — Source: limestone. Use: tooth powders; reduces wine acidity. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Calcium Chloride — Source: synthetic. Use: canned goods; preservative in cottage/cheddar cheeses. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Calcium Disodium (EDTA) — Source: synthetic. Use: flavor retention in canned soda/white potatoes; preservative in dressings, egg products, margarine, potato salad, lima beans, mushrooms, pecan pie filling, spreads. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Calcium Propionate — Source: synthetic. Use: preservative. Status: kosher; supervision preferred.
- Calcium Stearate — Source: compound of calcium and stearic acid (see Stearic Acid). Use: anti-caking in some spices (esp. garlic/onion salt); widely in tablets. Status: requires kosher supervision.
- Calcium Sorbate — Source: synthetic. Use: preservative. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Calcium Sterol Lactylate — Source: milk or soybeans. Use: instant mashed potatoes. Status: requires kosher supervision.
- Calcium Stearoyl Lactylate — Source: reaction of stearic acid and lactic acid. Use: dough conditioner; whipping agent; conditioner in dehydrated potatoes. Status: requires kosher supervision.
- Caprylic Acid — Sources: palm oil, coconut oil. Use: preservative and flavoring. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
- Carbon Black — Source: synthetic. Use: black coloring in confectionery. Status: requires kosher supervision.
- Carmine / Red 4 (Cochineal) — Source: insect (coccus cacti). Use: red coloring in apple sauce, fruit cocktail, jams, confections, baked goods, meats, spices. Status: not kosher.
- Carrageenan — Sources: seaweed and fresh moss. Use: emulsifier/stabilizer/thickener; substitute for gelatin. Status: kosher, pareve (no supervision).
From The KSA: Small Cannoli Shells
Alert: Small Cannoli Shells from Supremo Italiano are dairy, not Parve as listed.
You Are What You Eat – A Consumer’s Perspective
“You Are What You Eat” — But Do You Really Know What’s Inside?
“You are what you eat.” This may be fine if you know exactly what you’re eating and all the ingredients are straightforward. For the kosher consumer, however, the situation is very different. Many people would be surprised if they knew what they were really eating.
Hidden Ingredients in Food
Most mystery ingredients fall under the category of food additives. Long ago, the FDA established laws allowing certain amounts of contaminants in government-approved foods.
- Frozen broccoli: Legally permitted to contain up to 60 aphids, thrips, or mites.
- Shellac (resinous glaze): A shiny coating derived from the female lac insect, commonly used on candies and other foods.
These examples show how little the public often knows about the source and origin of many additives. Reb Moshe Feinstein wrote a Teshuva (responsum) about ways some additives might be made acceptable.
Colorings and Flavorings
- Carmine (Red Dye 4, cochineal): Derived from crushed cochineal bugs; still used in products like fruit cocktails to keep cherries red. Some companies have pledged to stop using it.
- “Natural flavorings” can mask non-kosher origins:
- Ambergris — derived from sperm whales; used in perfumes, cocktails, and medicines.
- Civet absolute — from civet cat scent glands; appears in frozen dairy desserts, baked goods, candies, puddings, and gelatins.
These additives are technically “natural,” but they are not kosher.
What Might Be in a Simple Breakfast?
A breakfast of coffee, tomato juice, cereal, and toast could legally include:
- Tomato juice: Up to 10 fly eggs per 100 grams.
- Cereal: Up to 9 mg of rodent excreta and 50 insect fragments per 50 grams.
- Non-dairy creamer: May contain casein, a milk-derived product.
- “Natural or artificial flavorings”: Could come from hundreds of sources — animal, vegetable, or synthetic.
Health Risks and Allergies
For some, hidden ingredients are not just unpleasant — they can be life-threatening.
- Non-dairy creamers and dessert toppings often list casein (milk-derived).
- Hydrolyzed vegetable protein in tuna is sometimes derived from whey (dairy).
A person with severe dairy allergies could unknowingly consume these products and suffer a dangerous reaction.
The Role of Proper Supervision
The best safeguard is kosher supervision (Hechsherim). Before certifying a product, agencies check ingredients, sources, and equipment:
- If a product contains dairy derivatives, labels carry a “D”.
- If produced on dairy machinery, labels may say “DE” (Dairy Equipment).
Real-world example: A seemingly harmless can of tuna once threatened the life of a 3-year-old who was highly allergic to dairy. The parents didn’t realize the tuna contained a dairy-based ingredient. Recognizing the small letter “D” could have prevented the near-tragedy.
A Model for Full Disclosure
Today, many recognize that kosher supervision often provides more reliable disclosure than standard labeling. As ingredients grow more complex, the FDA and manufacturers could learn from the kosher supervisory system, which verifies every ingredient and its source — and the equipment used.
Bottom line: Ingredient lists aren’t enough. Learning kosher symbols — and how to interpret them — helps consumers make safer, healthier choices.
From The O/K: Tokin” Jew High Honey
Tokin’ Jew High, Honey products bear an unauthorized O/K on the packaging. This company and their products are NOT O/K certified. O/K Kosher does not currently certify any recreational THC products.
From The O/U: Skittles
Status of Kosher certification of Skittles:
At this point, some Skittles are certified kosher pareve, even when not bearing the O/U symbol, while others are not.
To determine if you have a certified product, please look at the ink-jetted codes printed on the package.
1.) If the production code contains “YRV” in it or it contains “WAC” and has a best-buy date of June 2026 or later, then those products are certified kosher by the O/U. Eventually, the O/U symbol will appear on all packaging.
From The COR of Greater Detroit: Newly Supervised – MrBeast Feastibles Chocolate
MrBeast Feastibles Chocolates recently received an O/U dairy certification. This product is only Kosher when bearing the O/UD symbol on the packaging. Stores are now carrying a mixture of products with the O/UD and without. Check each package.
From The COR of Greater Detroit: Kronos Pita
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.
From the COR of Greater Detroit: Trader Joe’s Organic French Rolls and French Baguettes
Trader Joe’s Organic French Rolls and French Baguettes that bear the MK (Montreal) symbol are both Pas Yisroel.
From The O/U: Idahoan Original Mashed Potatoes
Idahoan Original Mashed Potatoes does not bear an O/U symbol on new boxes due to a printing error. This product is still certified as O/U pareve.
From The Kof-K: Crepini Egg Wraps
Due to operational changes, new production of Crepini Egg Wraps is no longer Kof-K certified and will no longer bear the Kof-K symbol Product currently in stores with the Kof-K symbol was produced before this change and is certified Kosher and will bear a lot code of 300630 or lower.
From The O/U: Base Culture Breads
Base Culture Breads are no longer certified as O/U Kosher. Images on some websites (Amazon and Whole Foods) mistakenly still show the O/U symbol on this product.
From The O/U: Beech-Nut Baby Foods
Beech-Nut Baby Foods are no longer O/U certified and no longer bear the O/U symbol. Older jars that still bear the O/U symbol should be considered Kosher.
From The COR of Greater Detroit: Dave’s Sweet Tooth Toffee
Dave’s Sweet Tooth Toffee is no longer certified by the K-COR/Vaad Harabbonim and is not acceptable even when bearing the Council’s K-COR symbol, due to Kashrus violations.
From The COR of Greater Detroit: New Slurpee Syrups
The following new Slurpee syrups are Kosher and pareve, with 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 that store has store level Kashrus certification on its Slurpee machines…
Mountain Dew Infinite Swirl FCB
Fanta Zero Sugar Delicious Hibiscus & Berry FCB
From The COR of Greater Detroit: Vernors and Mountain Dew Flavors
Vernors Boston Cooler and Mountain Dew Infinite Swirl are under recommended Kosher supervision with no symbol required.
Scooters on Shabbos
Scooters/Bikes on Shabbos, Travel Notes & Alerts
Community Halacha Notes
SCOOTERS/BIKES ON SHABBOS
אֶת־שַׁבְּתֹתַי תִּשְׁמֹרוּ וּמִקְדָּשִׁי תִּירָאוּ (ויקרא י״ט:ל׳)
Selected sources on bikes and scooters on Shabbos:
- אבן עזרא: Shabbos Kodesh is a time to strengthen our closeness to הקב״ה.
- Kaf HaChayim (403:8): Concerns include possible carrying and going beyond the תחום without realizing, since the bike/scooter won’t stand without continual motion; and if it breaks (e.g., the chain falls), one may come to fix it—similar to the concern with musical instruments.
- Shulchan Aruch (או״ח סי׳ שכ״ג): Categorizes this as עוֹבְדָה דְּחוֹל.
- R. Moshe Stern: Distinguishes between הִגִּיעַ לְחִינוּךְ or not; scooters/bikes should not be used once a child recognizes that it is Shabbos.
- R. Ovadia Yosef: While some cite Ben Ish Chai as allowing riding in limited cases, most אחרונים do not allow it (חזון עובדיה, שבת ח״ד, עמ׳ 40).
- R. Yaakov Kamenetsky, R. Moshe Feinstein (טִלְטוּלֵי שַׁבָּת), שמירת שבת כהלכתה (ט״ז:י״ח), R. Ovadia Yosef (חזון עובדיה ח״ד עמ׳ 40), ציץ אליעזר (ז:ל׳): Permit tricycles for children below the age of חִינוּךְ, since it is not a standard mode of transportation and thus not עוֹבְדָה דְּחוֹל; but they do not permit vehicles used for transportation for older children.
לְפִיכָךְ אָסוּר לָאָדָם לְהַלֵּךְ בְּחֲפָצָיו בְּשַׁבָּת, וַאֲפִלּוּ לְדַבֵּר בָּהֶם.
אִם־תָּשִׁיב מִשַּׁבָּת רַגְלֶךָ עֲשׂוֹת חֲפָצֶיךָ בְּיוֹם קָדְשִׁי, וְקָרָאתָ לַשַּׁבָּת עֹנֶג, לִקְדוֹשׁ ה׳ מְכֻבָּד; וְכִבַּדְתּוֹ מֵעֲשׂוֹת דְּרָכֶיךָ, מִמְּצֹא חֶפְצְךָ וְדַבֵּר דָּבָר. (ישעיהו נ״ח:י״ג)
From this pasuk in Yeshayahu we learn that our walking, speech, eating, and even clothing on Shabbos should reflect the kedushah of Shabbos Kodesh.
Miscellaneous
- Airline meals should be received sealed/unopened. Many airports—especially in the tri-state area—offer kosher options at concessions.
- Milk and eggs from small farms/roadside stands can be problematic: eggs may be fertilized and contain blood spots; milk may be חֲלֵב עַכּוּ״ם (non-supervised), which R. Moshe’s teshuva does not permit.
- Fruits from farms/stands often have significant insect concerns and require careful checking.
- When flying from Ben Gurion or elsewhere, do not assume a familiar brand is the same formula; a product may be certified in one country but not in another. Many items (e.g., Hershey products) at Ben Gurion are not kosher.
- If fishing with non-kosher bait, remove the head before cooking. If filleted on a deep-sea boat, ensure the knife is used only for that species, is clean, and that you receive the fish you provided.
GOING ON VACATION
Vacation can and should be a נוֹפֵשׁ—time to rejuvenate—ח״ו not the opposite.
In Sefer Devarim (14:18, פָּרָשַׁת רְאֵה) the Torah singles out the pig as emblematic of non-kosher. The Yiddish idiom “Chazer Fissel” warns that some things may appear kosher while not meeting Torah standards. Whatever we do and wherever we go, we should ensure the setting meets the standards we’ve set for ourselves.
ALERTS
OU Kosher Alert — Hyson Puff Pastry Dough Sheets
- Brand: Hyson
- Product: Puff Pastry Dough Sheets
- Company: Lea Food Inc., Elk Grove Village, IL
- Issue: Unauthorized OU mark. The Orthodox Union does not certify this product. Corrective actions are being implemented.
OU Kosher Alert — Ice Cream Trucks
The Orthodox Union does not certify any ice cream trucks. Some display an unauthorized OU mark—for example, “Joe’s Ice Cream Truck” in the Teaneck area reportedly had a large unauthorized OU. No ice cream trucks are OU-certified.
OU Kosher Advisory — Ghost Hawk Brewing Company
The OU previously certified Ghost Hawk Brewing Company (Clifton, NJ) on canned beers only. The OU no longer certifies Ghost Hawk Brewing Company. Its retail establishment was never certified. An incorrect listing on the OU’s restaurant list has been corrected.
From The O/U: Too Good Gourmet Ghirardelli Confetti White Chocolate Chip Crisp Cookies
The O/U certifies Ghirardelli Confetti White Chocolate Chip Crisp Cookies an an O/UD (dairy) product. This product contains dairy as indicated in the ingredients and allergens panel. Some labels were printed with a plain O/U mark, without the “D: designation.
From The O/U: Aivital
The O/U does not certify any Aivital product, including their electroyte powders. Some products bear an unauthorized O/U mark.
From The O/U: Arizona Whipped Pineapple Orange Fruit Juice Cocktail
The O/U certifies AriZona Whipped Orange Pineapple Fruit Juice Cocktail as an O/UD (dairy) product. This product contains dairy as indicated in the ingredients and allergens statements. Some cans are labeled with a plain O/U mark without the “D” designation.
From The O/U: Niuke Foods
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
The O/U does not certify any Niuke Foods products (vegetarian mayo and other condiments). Some products are labeled with an unauthorized O/U mark.
From The cRc: Favorite Day Decorating Icing
Please be advised that certain varieties of Favorite Day Decorating Icing, sold on Target.com, display the cRc Kosher logo on the product image, but they are not currently certified by cRc.
From The O/U: The Only Bean
The O/U certifies several varieties of the Only Bean Crunchy Roasted Edamame Beans snacks, except for the Wasabi Soy Sauce variety that is not certified. A variety of the Only Beans snacks are sold together in a box that bears an O/U mark on the outside of the box. Only the products that have an O/U mark on the individual packaging are certified kosher by the O/U. The Wasabi Soybean variety is not certified and does not have an O/U mark on the individual package.
From The O/U: Best Yet creamy Ranch Dressing
The O/U certifies Best Yet Creamy Ranch Dressing as an O/UD (dairy) product. This product contains dairy ingredients as indicated in the ingredients and allergens statements. Some labels were printed with a plain O/U mark, without the “D” (dairy) designation.
Tevilas Kailim
TEVILAS KAILIM
- It is a Mitzvah learned from במדבר (31:23) and elaborated on in the Gemorah Avoda Zara (75b) that after Milchemes Midyan we were given the Mitzvah to be טובל the Kailim made from gold, silver, copper, iron, tin, lead, and all types of metal. Glass is in the same category as metal. Wood, plastic, and earthenware do not require Tevilah. China is only toiveled without a bracha, as with Teflon-coated pans.
- Rashba (Yevamos 47b) compares tevilas kailim to giyur — converting the kailim from non-Jewish use to Jewish use. This is also found in the Yerushalmi (Avoda Zara 5:16).
- Aruch HaShulchan (Y.D. 120:25), Iggros Moshe (Y.D. 2:46), and Yechaveh Daas consider it a mitzvah d’oraisa for the owner to be tovel kailim. Eating on possibly non-toveled kailim is an issur d’rabbanan.
- Tevilas kailim is only for “klei shulchan” — utensils that directly touch food. Examples that do not require tevila (per Rabbi Heineman): blech, can opener, coffee grinder, corkscrew, dish rack, flour sifter, hot plate, immersion heater, knife sharpener, food thermometer, oven racks, plastic or wood utensils, rolling pin, silicone bakeware, sink rack, trivet, warming tray.
- If you borrow kailim from a non-Jew, no tevila is needed (Shulchan Aruch, Rema – Y.D. 120:16). For example, vacation home glasses or hotel utensils. If no mikvah is available (e.g., Erev Shabbos), one can sell/give the utensil to a non-Jew and borrow it back. Alternatively, one may be mafkir it in front of three people.
- Iggros Moshe and others: only make a bracha when certain that tevila is required — not in cases of safek.
- The kli must be immersed all at once, without haste, and without stickers, labels, or residue.
- Reused bottles/cans (Iggros Moshe Y.D. 2:40) do not require tevila unless intended for reuse. Drinking from a glass soda bottle the first time is permitted.
- Disposable aluminum (used once or twice) does not require tevila. For long-term use, tevila without a bracha is required (Iggros Moshe). Reb Shlomo Zalman Auerbach says even disposables should be toiveled with a bracha.
- Chelkas Yaakov (Y.D. 41–43): electrical appliances connected to the wall (like ovens) do not require tevila. Most poskim disagree. Iggros Moshe says to toivel only the part that touches food.
- Iggros Moshe (Y.D. 1:57) permits not toivel a toaster if it will be ruined by tevila. Shevet HaLevi and Rivevos Ephraim disagree. If toiveled, let it dry thoroughly. This does not work for electronics with chips/displays.
- Ba’er Heitev (YD 120): a person may toivel for someone else without their knowledge, and a bracha may be said if it can be assumed the owner consents.
- One generally may not eat/drink from a Jew’s non-toiveled kailim. However, the food remains kosher and may be transferred to a toiveled dish. If cooked in a non-toiveled pan and served on a toiveled plate, most poskim allow eating it (Rema YD 120, Iggros Moshe YD 2:41). Reb Elyashiv is strict. Reb Moshe is lenient bediavad, especially when the utensil is not essential (e.g., plate vs. soup bowl). Reb Shlomo Zalman permitted it for kiruv purposes.
- The posuk requires “mai niddah” — water that is kosher for a niddah mikvah. Natural lakes, wells, and the ocean are usually kosher.
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Summer Halachos Part 3
During the summer many people travel. One often confronts some of the following שאלות:
KASHRUS IN A HOTEL OR RENTAL HOUSE
- Metal, glass etc. utensils that normally require Tevila can be used without Tevila if owned by a non-Jew. Typically glasses in hotels and rental houses can be used without Tevila unless the house is known to be owned by a Jew. Reb Moshe says that even in the Tri State area the רוב consists of non Jews.
- Cold, non-kosher, silverware owned by a non-Jew can be used for cold food that is not sharp, i.e. a cold non-kosher spoon for kosher cold cereal, when plastic or kosher utensils are not available.
- For Shabbos we need to check if the property is enclosed in order to carry. At hotels this often is not the case for outside grounds. Inside the room and building one can carry.
- Buying cut up fruit in a supermarket or airport is fine as long it does not contain anything that needs to be checked for insect infestation and is without added flavoring.
- Unflavored tea or coffee are fine in Kiosks, convenience stores, gas stations, etc. Closed containers such as salt and sugar in a closed pourer that does not allow for anything to fall in, are fine in a rental house (if the owner allows their use) but not open containers. When kosher coffee stores are not available one can drink coffee from a venue that preferably does not serve food. This of course is unflavored only unless as with Starbucks one can see the flavoring and it’s certification. Otherwise, their כלים are possibly washed with non kosher utensils. Starbucks is best from a drive thru or kiosk, but acceptable from the large stores if there is no good alternative. The same is true with coffee from restaurants. Starbucks flavors come from a bottle with clear indication of kashrus that one can verify on the spot. The KD on the back of the Frappuccino bottles is the reliable Hechscher of Rabbi Charlap. It is חלב סטם.
- It is difficult to kasher a BBQ and better to use a disposable or portable one. If one does need to be kashered, it must be cleaned well with something like Easy Off and turned on for an hour to high. The grates that we put the food on directly need further kashering by placing burning coals on them until they go out (ליבון חמור). Great care must be used not to cause a fire or bend the metal rack. Often it is more practical to buy and Tovel a new rack.
- A self-clean oven can be turned on and used after the cycle ends. A non-self-clean oven should be inspected to make sure it is clean, wait 24 hours from last use, turn on for an hour to high and use. The stove tops can be used as follows: if electric, turn on till red (usually about 3 minutes) and it is kashered. Gas should be turned on for 15 minutes with metal over it to reflect the heat down. A disposable aluminum pot works well for this.
- Countertops are fine to use, but very hot pots should be put on a towel etc. and not directly on the countertop.
- Cold cereal in a hotel continental breakfast often is kosher, but one needs to determine what is represented as a kosher brand.
- A waffle maker, popcorn popper, and other cooking utensils need to be considered non-kosher even if at the moment they are using kosher oil and other ingredients. Without Hashgacha one cannot tell if the כלים are kosher. Statements from the staff are not acceptable unless they are שומר שבת.
אַ גוטן זומער
WE WISH EVERYONE A WONDERFUL RELAXING AND חופש של נופש SUMMER. REJUVINATING
It is important to bear in mind that all Poskim agree that the Mitzvah of Talmud Torah is every day, including vacation days and is the source of our greatest protection. As Chazal say:
(יא דברים י"רש וכן :ג"י ברכות ירושלמי) אעזבך יומים תעזבני יום אם
And the first Mishna in פאה tells us:
"כלם כנגד תורה תלמוד"
Of all the unique Mitzvos that we can perform during the summer, we have a special opportunity to perfect our commitment to daily learning and ק"ש ותפילה בזמנה.
Summer Halachos Part 2
HALACHOS FOR THE SUMMER (5785) - Part 2
by Rabbi Eidlitz
The summer provides unique opportunities for growth in our avodas HaShem. During the summer we often can utilize Halacha in ways that do not present themselves during the year. Following are some guidelines that may help us to successfully navigate the challenges and opportunities of the summer months.
ISSUR OF SAKANAH (DANGEROUS SITUATIONS)
ושמרתם מאד לנפשתיכם (דברים ד) וחיו בהם
חמירה סכנת מאיסורה (חולין ט)
Gemara Shabbos 129b, Yevamos 12: Even things that may only pose a possible danger are treated seriously in Halacha.
אם דשו בו רבים מותר – If something is commonly accepted as normal behavior, it is permitted under the concept of שומר פתאים ה' (Tehillim 116:6) – "Hashem protects the simple".
Chazal and the Poskim teach that we are more stringent when it comes to potential danger than we are for other prohibitions (חמירה סכנתא מאיסורה). Yet, the Gemara explains that if a certain behavior carries risk but is common and accepted, it may be permitted due to our reliance on Hashem’s protection.
Examples commonly considered Assur due to uncommon danger:
- Bungee jumping
- Parachuting for fun (Reb Shlomo Zalman Auerbach zt”l)
- Smoking cigarettes
- Smoking marijuana
- Big game hunting
- Base jumping
- Car travel without a seatbelt or in dangerous areas
- Any activity that is clearly risky or defies common sense and Halacha
Examples generally not considered a Sakana with proper precautions:
- Car travel (with seatbelts)
- Skiing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Eating and drinking most types of food
- Donating blood
- Playing sports
- Thrill rides in amusement parks
- River rafting
Sources and Commentary:
- Harav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach zt”l: He did not wear a seatbelt when it was not yet mandated by law, since most people at that time did not wear them. He considered this to fall under the category of דשו בו רבים — behavior that is common and therefore permitted under the principle of שומר פתאים ה' (Hashem protects the simple). However, once it became legally required and most people began to wear seatbelts, he was careful to do so as well. He explained that we are permitted to engage in normal activities such as eating meat, sugar, and drinking coffee in moderation, relying on Hashem’s protection. Nonetheless, he ruled that parachuting purely for recreation would be Assur (forbidden), since it constitutes an unnecessary and unreasonable risk.
- Rav Chaim Kanievsky zt”l: He emphasized that there is an actual obligation from the Torah to protect one's health. He cited the possuk from Devarim (4:9), "רק השמר לך ושמור נפשך מאוד" — “Only guard yourself and greatly guard your soul.” According to Rav Chaim, this verse establishes a chiyuv (obligation) to watch over one’s physical well-being, and taking unnecessary risks violates that duty.
- HaRav Eliezer Waldenberg zt”l – Tzitz Eliezer (11:14): He explained that many activities which technically carry some risk — such as driving on the freeway or going on rollercoasters — are nonetheless permitted because they are common and accepted parts of daily life. These fall under the protection of the principle שומר פתאים ה', meaning Hashem protects those who engage in ordinary, socially normative behavior. He clarified, though, that this only applies when the risk is relatively small and distant.
- Reb Chaim Ozer Grodzinski ztz”l: He added an important limitation to the principle of שומר פתאים ה'. According to him, it only applies when the risk is distant, infrequent, and generally considered minimal. He stated that one cannot use this principle to justify behavior when the danger is more serious or immediate. For example, even when swimming — which is a common activity — one must ensure that the conditions are safe and that it does not pose a serious risk at that moment.
Summer Halachos Part 1
HALACHOS FOR THE SUMMER (5785) Part 1
by Rabbi Eidlitz
The summer provides unique opportunities for growth in our avodas HaShem. During the summer we often can utilize Halacha in ways that do not present themselves during the year. Following are some guidelines that may help us to successfully navigate the challenges and opportunities of the summer months.
Contents:
- Tefilas Haderech
- Birkas Hagomel
- Sakanah
- Kashrus in Hotels and Rental Houses
- Tevilas Kailim
- The Three Weeks
- Tisha B’Av
- Scooters on Shabbos
TEFILAS HADERECH and HAGOMEL
- Gemara Brachos 29b – Eliyahu Hanavi told Reb Yehudah:
כל היוצא לדרך צריך להתפלל תפלת הדרך. מאי תפלת הדרך? יהי רצון מלפניך ד' אלקי שתוליכני לשלום ותצעידני לשלום ותצילני מכף כל אויב ואורב בדרך, ותשלח ברכה במעשי ידי, ותתנני לחן לחסד ולרחמים בעיניך ובעיני כל רואי, ברוך אתה ד שומע תפלה. אמר אביי: לעולם לישתף אינש נפשיה בהדי צבורא
The Gemorah teaches that while we always need Hashem’s protection, it is needed even more during travel and thus warrants a special Tefilah.
Rashi and the Rashba (Brachos 29b) understand from the Gemara that Tefilas Haderech can only be said up to 1 Parsa from town (a bit under 3 miles) since we are asking permission to travel from one community to another. The Rosh (Brachos 4:18), Behag, and Mechaber (O.C. 110:7) say that we start saying it only after a Parsa and up to 1 Parsa of ending the journey since one still needs Hashem’s extra protection. The trip is considered to have started 70 Amos (120 feet) after the last house of the town, which is defined in Halacha as “leaving town”. Mishna Berura (Orach Chaim 110:29) says it should be said within 3 miles of “leaving town”.
- Taz: We can say Tefilas Haderech at home as soon as we start the trip. The MB (O.C. 110) says to follow the Mogen Avrohom and wait until we leave town. The Steipler would say it upon entering a highway.
- Rivavos Ephraim (6:109): When traveling on a ship, say Tefilas Haderech as soon as it leaves the dock; on a plane, as soon as it is moving. Rav Ruderman (Mipi Hashmuah) says to wait until the plane is on the runway and taking off.
- Reb Yaakov Kamenetzky paskens to say Tefilas Haderech whether or not we are nervous about the trip.
- Yabia Omer (1:13): Any mode of travel of 72 minutes or more away from a town requires saying Tefilas Haderech.
- Mishna Berura (O.C. 110:28): Lechatchila we make it a Bracha Ha’Smucha Lechaverta (connected to another bracha) by first saying a bracha on something else.
- Gemara Brachos (30a): Rav Shaises – may recite Tefilas Haderech while walking. Rav Chisda – only standing. On a plane or in a car, sit, since standing makes concentration hard. Mishna Berura (110:22): Say it in whatever position gives better kavanah.
- Piskei Teshuvos (110:3): Preferably each person should say it themselves, but one can be Motzei others. However, a Koton cannot be Motzei a Gadol.
- MB (110:26): Typically say Tefilas Haderech once a day, which covers until sleeping in a bed. If sleeping in a seat (on plane, car, etc.), it can cover the next day too.
BIRKAS HAGOMEL
Gemara Brachos (54b): A person who traveled through an ocean or desert, was released from jail, or healed from serious illness and is no longer in danger says the Bracha:
הגומל לחייבים טובות שגמלני כל טוב
This bracha is also said when flying over an ocean, such as to Eretz Yisroel. It is said at the conclusion of the trip, not during a stopover.
Reb Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (Halichos Shlomo, Hilchos Tefillah 23:5) and Reb Moshe Feinstein (Igros Moshe, O.C. 2:59) pasken that a person should say Birkas Hagomel after any flight. However, the Tzitz Eliezer (11:14) says that the Minhag is to say the beracha only when flying over an ocean.
Mishna Berura (219:6): Say it in a Minyan, with the one saying the bracha counted among the ten.
Rivavos Ephraim (1:156): It should be said standing, and is usually recited after getting an Aliyah, as stated in Mishna Berura (219:2).
From The O/U: Kospix Chilean Seabass
The O/U certifies Spice Chain Pizza Seasoning, a foodservice product, as an O/UD (dairy) product. This product contains dairy, as indicate in the ingredients statement. Some labels were labeled with a plain O/U mark, without the “D” designation.
From The O/U: Some Honey Hot
The O/U does not certify Some Honey Hot honey. Some labels have an unauthorized O/U mark.
From The cRc: McCormick Tartar Sauce
Please be advised that McCormick Tartar Sauce is sold on many online stores, including Amazon and Walmart, with the cRc Kosher logo appearing on the image, but it is not currently certified by cRc Kosher.
פרשת נשא – KosherQuest Updates
פרשת נשא
Brand
Beech-Nut
Product
All Beech-Nut Baby Food items
Company
Beech-Nut
Issue
The Orthodox Union is no longer certifying Beech-Nut baby foods. The products with an OU Symbol are certified, and the products without the OU Symbol are no longer certified. The marketplace may have both certified and non-certified products side by side. Consumers should look for the OU Symbol.
OU Kosher Advisory Kohana Espresso
Brand
Kohana
Product
Double Espresso – various flavors
Company
Westrock Coffee Co.
Issue
Missing OU D- Dairy designation The Orthodox Union certifies Kohana Double Espresso as an OU D – Dairy product. This product contains dairy, as indicated in the ingredients and allergens statements. Some labels bear an OU mark without the D – Dairy designation. Corrective actions are being implemented.
OK Kosher
Kosher Advisory – The Milky Way
Restaurant: The Milky Way (9108 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035)
Please be advised that as of May 22, 2025, The Milky Way (9108 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035) is no longer certified by OK Kosher Certification.
(note: it is now reliably certified by the Rabbinical Council of California the – RCC)
Dorot Carrots from Eretz Yisroel found at Shoprite and other locations are reliably certified. Trumos & Maasros have been taken.
Product: Cubix Edibles
Issue: Unauthorized Use of OK
Various products containing THC sold under the brand ‘Cubix’ bear an unauthorized OK trademark.
These products are not certified by OK Kosher Certification.
OK Kosher does not currently certify any recreational THC products.
Corrective actions are being taken.
Shavuos Tidbit – Eating Meat After Dairy
SHAVUOS (eating meat after dairy)
There is a מנהג to eat a dairy meal on שבועות. Some follow the Minhag of the Steipler to eat a dairy meal at night. Others prefer to have an early dairy meal during the morning, Bentch,take a break to have הסך הדעת and then wash again and have a meat meal. This is due to concerns that ושמחת בחגך may require a meat meal. There are many reasons given for eating dairy on שבועות: Reb Moshe understood from the רמ”א that having a milk meal followed by a meat meal requires separate Challas. This reminds us of the שתי הלחם. Until מתן תורה milk was אסור as Eiver Min Hachai. The Steipler would eat the dairy meal at night. The גמרא in חולין says that we can eat meat after a dairy meal. In ירה דעה the need for קינוח והדחה after eating dairy is added, washing well one’s mouth in between.to clean it.
The רמב”ם Paskens that we must wait 6 hours between meat to milk.רש”י says that this is due to lingering taste of the meat. The רמב”ם says the wait is due to strings of meat that may be caught in ones teeth. Most Poskim agree (ש”ע ,(טור לחם משנה פרי מגדים בן איש חי ו. In YD 89 the רמה ומחבר agree that after hard or pungent cheese we need to wait for the same as we do between meat and milk. The שך says that cheese is considered hard after aging for about 6 months. Rav Aharon Kotler ztl defined hard cheese as having to be grated and not sliced. The יד יהודה (YYK 89:30) says that if the hard cheese was melted one no longer needs to wait before eating meat.
In most cases one must wait after eating hard cheese that was aged 6 months or more before eating meat the same amount of time that they wait after eating meat before eating dairy. For most of the world that is 6 hours. The following list compiled by the o/u shows which types of cheese are generally aged long enough to be called a hard cheese:
- Appenzeller (Swiss-made): Classic: 3-4 months; Surchoix: 4-6 months*; Extra: over 6 months*
- Asiago: Fresh (Asiago/Asiago Pressato: 3-6 weeks); Asiago d´Allevo/Mezzano: 3-8 months*; Asiago d´Allevo/Vecchio: 9-18 months*; Asiago d´Allevo/Stravecchio: over 18 months*
- Caciocavallo: fresh variety: 2 months; semi-aged variety: up to 6 months*; aged variety: well beyond six months*
- Caciotta Alpina: up to 1 year*
- Dry Monterey Jack: 7-10 months*
- Cheddar, Medium, Sharp and Aged: close to 6 months, and up to 7 years (!)*
- Chevre (Goat Cheese): usually aged for two weeks or less; however, if label says “aged” or states a specific cheese variety, may be aged much longer
- Emmental (Swiss Cheese-Switzerland): 6-14 months*
- Feta (goat or sheep milk): brined 3-6 months
- Fiore Sardo: 4-8 months*
- Fontina: 1-8 months*
- Gruyere: 5 months – 12 months
- Havarti (Regular): 3 months; however, Aged Havarti: 1 year*
- Kashkaval: 3-6 months*
- Marble Cheese: 4-6 months*
- Monchego: Monchego Fresco: 2 weeks; Mochego Curado: 3-6 months*; Monchego Viejo: 1 year*
- Montasio: fresh variety: 2 months; semi-aged variety: 5-9 months*; aged variety: 10 months*
- Monterey Jack (in American market): 2 months (although foreign market Monterey Jack can be aged 6 months to 1 year*); see also Dry Monterey Jack, above
- Parmesan: 10-24 months or more*
- Pecorino Sardo: 8 months*
- Pecorino Romano: 6-8 months*
- Pepper Jack: Same as Monterey Jack (above)
- Piccante Provolone: 6-12 months*
- Provola dei Nebrodi: at least 6 months*
- Provolone: see Dolce Provolone and Piccante Provolone
- Reggianito: 6 months*
- Speedy Piccante: at least 9 months*
- Stravecchio: 1-3 years*
- Swiss – American-made, Baby Swiss and Lacey Swiss: 3-4 months; see Emmental, above, for Swiss made in Switzerland
Note: the following are not hard cheese: American cheese, Brie, Caciocayallo(fresh), Camembert, Mild Chedder, Chevre/goat cheese, Colby, Edam, Emmental Classic, Feta (goat or cow) Golden jack, Gouda, Halloumi, Kashkaval, Montaggio, Monterey Jack (American market), Mozzarella, Muenster, Pepper Jack (American market) Queso Quesadilla, Swiss (American made).
131 Country Club Drive Lakewood, NJ 08701
Kashrus inquiries: (818)262-5351cheese
From The O/K: The Milky Way Restaurant in Los Angeles
Please be advised that as of May 22, 2025, the Milky Way Restaurant at 9108 W. Pico Blvd. in Los Angeles is no longer certified Kosher by the O/K supervision.
The restaurant’s new hashgacha, as of May 22, 2025,, is RCC (Rabbinical Council of California).
From The cRc: Superior Nut Co. in Los Angeles
Please be advised that some packages of the following products sold by Superior Nut Co. in Los Angeles have been incorrectly stickered as cRc Pareve: Sereno Mix, High Energy Trail Mix w/M&M Roasted
The correct designation is “dairy”, as indicated by the cRc logo printed on the bag.
From The O/U: Kedem Light Grape Juice
Kedem Lite Grape Juice has become indispensable for many seeking to lower sugar intake while partaking in such Mitzvos as Kiddush and the Arba Kosos. The secret to low-sugar grape juice is to use lower sugar grapes. Kedem Light Grape Juice uses early harvest Concord grapes which are picked at about 11-13 Brix (end harvest concord grapes will reach 18 Brix). Some have questioned whether these grapes are “boser” *unripe grapes).
The beracha on boser is “Ha’odama (not Ha’Eitz) and Sharei Teshuva writes that the beracha on juicwe made from boser grapes is Shehakol (not Ha’Gafen). However, the grapes in question are full sized and purple. They look the same as other ripened Concord grapes and taste less sweet and more tart than regular grapes. The MIshna Berurah writes that once grapes have the appearance of ripened grapes, they are no longer boser. Furthermore, the Levush writes that boser refers to grapes that cannot be made into wine. This does not apply to thee grapes, since they CAN be made into a wine, albeit with lower alcohol level (about a 506%. To lower the sugar more, Kedem Light Grape Juice is also diluted with about 33% water. Therefore, the beracha on Light Grape Juice is borei Pri Ha’Gafen. It is not recommended to add additional water to Lite Grape Juice.
From The O/U: Hanufa Pistachio with Kunafa
The O/U does not certify Hanufa Dubai Chocolate, Chokunafa or Kuche products. The O/U mark on any product with those brands is unauthorized.
From The Star-K: Jasmine Gourmet Roasted Eggplants
Jars of Jasmine Gourmet Roasted Eggplants, produced in Greece and distributed by A To Z of Brooklyn, bear an unauthorized Star-K symbol.
From The O/U: Wish Bone Dressing
Wish Bone no Sugar Added Ranch Dressing is an O/UD (dairy) product, as indicated on the ingredients and allergens statements. Some labels bear an O/U mark without the “D” (dairy) designation. .
From The O/U: J. Charles Mallows
The O/U does not certify J. Charles Mallows (or any other J. Charles product). Some Mallows bear an unauthorized O/U mark.
From The O/U: Beech-Nut Baby Food
The O/U has announced that it is no longer providing Kosher certification for Beech-Nut brand baby food products. This change is effective immediately. While some Beech-Nut products currently in stores may still display the O/U symbol and are certified Kosher, any products without the symbol are no longer under O/U supervision.
From the KLBD: Heinz Saucy Sauce
Heinz Saucy Sauce, previously under the KLBD hashgacha, is no longer approved.
From The O/U: Spicy Ranch Chipoys
The O/U certifies Spicy Ranch Chipoys as an O/UD (dairy) product. Some labels have a plain O/U mark without the “D” designation.
From The O/U: Wish Bone No Sugar Ranch Dressing
Wish Bone No Sugar Added Ranch Dressing contains dairy, as indicated in the ingredients and allergens statements. Some labels bear an O/U mark without the “D” (dairy designations).
From The O/U: J. Charles Mallows
The O/U does not certify J. Charles Mallows (and any other J. Charles products). Some Mallows bear an unauthorized O/u mark.
From The O/K: Sabra Hummus (Canada)
Due to a packaging error, a limited amount of Sabra Hummus Classic (10 oz.), sold in Canada, (Exp 3/17/25 and 3/18/25) is missing the O/K symbol. This product is certified Kosher pareve by O/K and Rabbi Weissmandl.
From The O/K: Jook Nicotine Pouches
Jook brand nicotine pouches bear an unauthorized O/K certification mark. O/K does not certify this company or their products.
From The Star-K: Jasmine Gourmet Roasted Eggplant
Jars of Jasmine Gourmet Roasted Eggplants, produced in Greece and distributed by A To Z of Brooklyn, bear an unauthorized Star-K symbol.
From The O/U: Heavenly Organics Honey Products
Heavenly Organics Honey Products have an unauthorized O/U symbol.
From The COR of Greater Detroit: First Street Marinara Sauce With Romano Cheese
First Street Marinara Sauce with Romano Cheese has an unauthorized O/U symbol on the label.
From The O/U: I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Products
I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Salted Spread Sticks, a new version, contains Sweet Cream Buttermilk as stated on the label and bears an O/UD (dairy). I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter “Original” 45% Vegetable Oil Spread is also dairy and bears an O/UD. Other varieties, including Light, Vegan, Original 40% Vegetable Oil Spray and Garlic Spray are pareve and bear a plain O/U.
From The COR of Greater Detroit: Trader Joe’s Instant Boba Kit
Trader Joe’s INstant Boba Kit no longer bears an O/U symbol and is not O/U certified.
From The COR: Dip A Chip
Dip-A-Chip French Onion, Jalapeno & Delli Dill Dips are missing the “dairy” designation. This product is certified Kosher and dairy.
From The COR of greater Detroit: New Sodas
The following new sodas are Kosher/pareve and bear an O/U 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 and Kosher/pareve and require no symbol.
Pepsi Wild Cherry & Cream (regular and zero sugar)
Dr. Pepper Blackberry (regular and zero sugar)
From The COR of greater Detroit: Pomegranates from Israel
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 case they came in for the country of origin. Pomegranates from most countries list the country name on the sticker and those that do not are very likely from Israel.
From The cRc: Glick’s Chocolate Conettos
Please note that some dairy Glick’s Milk Chocolate Conettos were mistakenly packed in Dark Chocolate Conettos packaging, erroneously indicating that they are pareve, when in fact, they are dairy.
This run (lot # 02092024) has since been recalled by the manufacturer but still appears on some store shelves.
From The COR of Greater Detroit: AM Fresh North America Grapefruit at Costco
AM Fresh North America Grapefruit, sold at Costco, is a product of Israel as stated on the plastic bag closures and require taking of Terumos and Maasros.
From The Kof K: Great Value Taco Shells
Great Value Taco Shells, sold at Walmart, no longer bear the Kof-K symbol and are not certified. Online pictures of this product may still show the Kof-K symbol.
From The O/K: Jook Nicotine Pouches
Jook brand nicotine pouches bear an unauthorized O/K certification mark. O/K Kosher does not certify this company or their products.
From The O/U: Member’s Selection Creamy Ranch Dressing
The O/U certifies Member’s Selection as an O/UD (dairy) product. This product contains dairy as indicated in the ingredients list. Some labels were printed with a plain “O/U”, without the “D” (dairy) designation. This product is sold mostly in Latin America.
From The Star-K: Oncu Salata Sosu Dressing
Bottles of Oncu brand Salata Sosu salad dressing, manufactured in Turkey by Acemoglu Gida, were found in a Kosher grocery store in London bearing an unauthorized Star-K symbol.
From The COR: Bake Station Rye Bread
Bake Station Bakery Rye Bread sold after January 27 2005 is not Yoshon until further notice.
From The COR of Detroit: Zeman’s Rye Bread
Zeman’s Rye Bread, sold from Friday January 24 through Monday, January 27 may not be Yoshon. Beginning Tuesday, January 28, it will again be Yoshon.
All other Zeman’s products are Yoshon except for the following, that are NOT Yoshon…
All Whole Wheat products
All Oatmeal products (cookies, honey-Oat bread, challah and rolls)
All French/Puff Pastry items (Apple Turnover, Cherry Turnover, Pretzels, French Cream Horn, Napoleons)
From The O/U: Bustan NY Restaurant
The O/U does not certify Bustan NY, a NYC restaurant. Bustan’s use of the O/U mark on some Bustan menus is unauthorized. Bustan statements that may indicate that meats served in Bustan comply with O/U kosher certification standards for restaurants are also unauthorized by the O/U.
From The O/U: Bonne Maman Creme Avellana y Cacao
The O/U certifies Bon Maman Crema de Avellana y Cacao (Hazelnut and Cocoa Cream) as an O/UD (dairy) product. An importer in Mexico labeled this product with a Spanish label and a plain O/U mark (without the “D” designation).
From The O/U: Happy Day Whey Protein
The O/U does not certify Happy Day Whey Protein. Some bags bear an unauthorized O/U mark.
From The O/K: Nuda Tequila
The following Nuda Tequila products bear an unauthorized O/K on all product labels. O/K Kosher certification does not certify this company or any of their products…
Nuda Tequila Silver
Nuda Tequila Anejo
Nuda Tequila Extra Anejo
Nuda Tequila Reposado
Nuda Royal Premium Extra Anejo
From The O/K: Cousin Johnny’s Meatballs
Cousin Johnny’s Meatballs in Beef Ragu, sold in Australia, bear an unauthorized O/K. The O/K kashrus organization does not certify this company or any of their products.
From The O/U Casa De Cocoa Dark and Milk Chocolate Covered Almonds
The O/U certified Casa de Cocoa Chocolate Covered Almonds as an O/UD (dairy) product. Some packaging bears an O/U mark without the “D” (dairy) designation.
From The O/U: Rold Gold Auntie Anne’s Pretzel Twists
The O/’U certifies Rold Gold Auntie Anne’s Cinnamon Sugar Flavored Pretzel Twists as an O/UD (dairy) product. This product contains dairy ingredients as indicated in the ingredients and allergen statements. Some packaging bears a plain O/U without the “D” (dairy) designation.
From The O/U: Terra Vita Oils
The O/U does not certify any Terra Vita oil products. Some Terra Vita oils are labeled with an unauthorized O/U.
From The O/U: Osmo Chicken & Herbs Salt
The O/U does not certify Osmo Chicken & Herbs Salt. Some labels bear an unauthorized O/U mark.
From The O/U: Malka Cucina Italiano, Playa Del Carmen (Cancun)
The O/U does not certify any Malka Restaurants. Some menus of Malka Cucina Italiano in Playa Del Carmen (Cancun), Mexico features an unauthorized O/U mark.
From The Star-K: Cucina Viva Frozen Artichoke Hearts
4 pound packages of frozen Cucina Viva Quartered Artichoke Hearts, produced in Turkey and distributed by European Imports (a Sysco Co.), bear an unauthorized Star-K symbol.
Star-K does not certify artichoke hearts due to insect infestation.
From The KLBD: Ella’s Kitchen Snacks
Ella’s Kitchen 7+ Crumble Apple & Cinnamon and 7 + Rice Pudding Mango & Raspberry are no longer certified Kosher under KLBD supervision.
From The KLBD: Love Corn
Love, Corn Snacks, under KLBD supervision, has a new flavor – Sweet & Salty.
From The KLBD: Honey
Due to an industry-wide honey shortage, companies ae supplementing regular honey with Honeydew (also referred to as Forest Honey or Pine Honey).
While regular honey is produced by bees collecting nectar from flowers, Honeydew honey is made by bees collecting a sweet substance secreted by aphids (tiny insects that live on tree branches). The Kashrus status of such honey is subject to Halachic debate.
Because of this concern, KLBD recommends that honey should only be purchased with a reliable Hashgacha.
From The cRc: Nulu Bourbon Whiskey
Some bottlers of Nulu Bourbon Whiskey, produced by PCS Distilling Co., have been found bearing a sticker with the cRc logo. Nulu Bourbon Whiskey is NOT certified by cRc and the kosher status is unknown.
From The Kof-K: Durham Pecan Gummy Bears
Various Gummy Bears produced by Durham Pecan Co., being sold at Food Lion locations, bears an unauthorized Kof-K. These items are not Kosher. Flavors include Summer Freedom Bears, Summer Freedom Rings and Sherbet Gummi Ice Pop.
From The COR of greater Detroit: Sunny Fresh Light & Fluffy ESL (Liquid Eggs)
Sunny Fresh Light & Fluffy ESL (Liquid Egg) contains dairy ingredients and is certified O/UD (dairy). Some labels mistakenly do not bear the “D” designation.
From The COR of greater Detroit: Ricola Throat Drops
The following varieties of Ricola Throat Drops, when sold in bags or boxes, are recommended by the cRc (Chicago Rabbinical Council)…
Original (Natural) Herb
Honey Herb
Lemon Mint
Lemon Mint (Sugar Free)
These items are recommended only when sold in bags or boxes with no marking required. They are not recommended when sold in stick-packs.
From The COR of greater Detroit: Popsicles
Popsicle brand Orange, Cherry and Grape Ice Pops currently in stores have a mixture of some packages made in the U.S. that bear a Kof-K DE (dairy equipment) and some made in Italy that have no hechsher. This product was also found in some local Kosher stores. Check each package carefully for a hashgacha.
From the COR of greater Detroit: Idahoan “Original Mashed Potatoes”
Idahoan “Original mashed Potatoes” does not bear an O/U symbol on new boxes due to a printing error. This product continues to be certified O/U pareve.
From the COR of greater Detroit: Bell Peppers from Israel
Red, yellow and orange bell peppers from Israel will soon begin appearing in U.S. supermarkets and require taking of Terumos and Maaseros. Consumers should carefully check the fine print on the package or the sticker on individual peppers sold loose for the country of origin. Often the same brand has some peppers from Israel and some from other locations worldwide. Each individual package or pepper should be checked. Details of taking Maaser can be found on the Star-K website.
From The O/K: Golda Gourmet Foods
Golda brand Gourmet Foods have produced various pastry products that bear an unauthorized O/K. O/K Kosher does not certify this company or any of their products.
From The O/U: Sunny Fresh Light and Fluffy ESL (Liquid Eggs)
The O/U certifies Light and Fluffy ESL (Liquid Eggs) O/UD (dairy) products. The products contain dairy as indicated in the ingredients and allergens statements. Some packaging was printed with an O/U symbol, without the D (dairy) designation.
From The O/U: Plant Junkie Restaurant
The O/U does not certify Plant Junkie, a restaurant located in lower Manhattan. Some marketing materials were sent out stating that they obtained Kosher certification, and the O/U mark is on that marketing material. The use of the O/U mark is unauthorized.
