Kosher Alerts
July Alerts
- Alert posted on Fri July 16th, 2010
From the Star K
New Harvest Naturals Gluten-Free Bakery (www.newharvestnaturals.com) sold by Abe’s Place Gourmet Delicacies is misrepresenting itself as STAR-K certified. The STAR-K has no affiliation with Abe’s Place Gourmet Delicacy and does not certify any of its products.
Harvest Fresh Sunfield brand Cut Baby Corn in 106 oz. cans (6lbs 10 oz), distributed by Inteco, bear an unauthorized Star-K. Corrective action is being taken.
From the OU
America's Choice Berry Blend--This product mistakenly bears an unauthorized OU symbol. The product is being withdrawn from the marketplace.
Fudgstix Lite Frozen Fudge Bars-- This certified product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Corrective action is being taken.
American Roland's Artichoke Hearts-- A limited quantity of American Roland canned artichokes mistakenly bear an OU symbol. The OU does not certify this product because of bedikas tolayim concerns.
Grandessa Signature's Chocolate Covered Fruit Bars--This certified product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Corrective action is being taken.
Santorini's Stuffed Vine Leaves-- Some cans of Santorini Stuffed Vine Leaves bear an unauthorized OU symbol. Santorinin Stuffed Vine Leaves are not certified by the OU, and the company is removing the OU from this product. If you see this product with an OU, please call the OU at 212-613-8344.
From the OK
Please be advised that Sasoi Yihai (Lianyungang Alcohol Industries Co., Ltd., is no longer certified by the Ok Kosher Certification. Due to market demand they have switched to Tallow based Fatty Acid.
From the COR
Pasta Quistini products are kosher certified only when bearing special COR hologram stickers, which indicate a specific kosher supervised production.
Any Pasta Quistini product which bears a pre-printed COR symbol is not certified kosher. Kindly contact our office at 416.635.9550 if you should find any unauthorized Pasta Quistini product bearing a pre-printed COR symbol on the packaging.
This is to advise that Le Jardin Special Event Centre and Banquet Hall
is no longer a COR certified banquet venue.
We welcome the following establishments which are now under COR certification:
The Kitchen at Grodzinski
1102 Centre Street, Thornhill
905.882.1355
L.A. Basket Creations
416.884.6174
Howie T's Burger Bar - Grand opening July 21, 2010
3028 Bathurst St, Toronto
416.646.2422
From the RCC
Seaweed used as a warp for Sushi can be infested with tiny sea horses. Please be advised that only seaweed with numbered RCC label OR “United Kosher Food” label is supervised by the RCC. The appearance of “RCC” on any other packaging or label is inadvertent or fraudulent.
From the Beth Din of Johannesburg
Please be aware that Woolworths calamari, prawns and possibly other seafoods have erroneously been labeled with a Beth Din kosher logo. These products are not kosher and Woolworths have removed them from their stores.
From the CRC
It has come to our attention that certain frozen yogurt stores under the “Yoz” name are selling product claiming to be certified by the cRc. As best as we can determine, the cRc does not certify the frozen yogurt mix that they are selling and we definitely do not certify any of their stores.
Additionally, the Yoz website lists their frozen yogurt as being certified by the cRc. This is also not true. Attempts are being made to correct the situation.
From BLUE RIBBON KOSHER
Kashrus Administrator - Rabbi Baruch Meir Clein
Rabbinical Advisory Board - Rabbi Boruch Hirschfeld, Rabbi Moshe Tuvia Lieff, Rabbi Aaron Tendler.
2716 Kipling Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55416, (952) 925-3651, Fax (952) 925-3059
Email: blueribbonkosher@yahoo.com
Cascadian Farms sherbet - Cascadian Farms Organic Sherbet, all 4 flavors: Harvest Berry, Orange, Rainbow, and Wild Strawberry, under Blue Ribbon Kosher Supervision and bearing the Blue Ribbon Kosher symbol, contain dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the “D Stam” designation has been inadvertently omitted. The product is being withdrawn from the marketplace. Anyone spotting this product with a Blue Ribbon Kosher claim is urged to contact Blue Ribbon Kosher at 952-925-3651 or at blueribbonkosher@yahoo.com.
From Israel
Update from Badatz Beit Yosef: The following establishments are now certified by the agency.
1. Pizzale Yerushalayim (dairy) – 13 Kanfei Nesherim St., Jerusalem (1-700-50-50-48)
2. Chalat HaBayit Bakery (dairy/parve) 5 Herzl, Beit Shemesh (057-676-6500)
The following establishments are no longer under BBY.
1. Sharkiya Restaurant
2. Chopstick Restaurant
3. Tanur Bakery
Updates from Badatz Beit Yosef: The following businesses are now under the supervision of Badatz Beit
Yosef
1. Aldo Ice Cream (dairy) HaGiva Shopping Center, Givat Shmuel – 03-532-4488
2. Man Ohr Catering (meat) 51 Iris Argamon St, Netanya – 050-828-2113
3. Chanukah Bakery (parve/dairy) 13 David Remez, Ashkelon – 08-675-0701
4. Neuman’s Restaurant (meat) 36 HaCharoshet, Ra’anana – 09-741-2332
5. Eden Bakery (parve) Kiryat Malachi industrial park – 08-858-0317
6. Rothschild Café – W. Industrial Park, Rishon L’Tzion 1-700-55-99-70
7. Shipud Hatikvah Restaurant (meat) Ben-Gurion Airport duty free – 03-9744447 or 050-3998865
8. Mil Dallas Bakery (dairy/parve) desserts, pizza (delivery too) Moshav Achuzim, Lachish district – 08-681-6237
The following businesses are no longer under the BBY supervision.
1. Aperitif, Tel Aviv (not operating)
2. Avi B’Mishor Catering
3. Bar HaGalil Dairy (out of business)
From the Tzfat Rabbinate
Broken (Smashed/Crushed Green Olives) - This item, labeled “broken green olives” is making an appearance in delis in 10kg (22 lbs) containers. It is imported by Chideir V’Chatar Importers and Marketing LTD with a label claiming kashrut supervision from the Rabbanut of Tzfat and Upper Galil.The Tzfat Rabbinate reports the item is a fraud and it never granted kashrut to such a product.
ALERT: Courgette & Edible Flowers
It is becoming increasingly trendy among chefs in higher end hotels to use courgette flowers [which are cut from unripe zucchini] serving it stuffed with an array of cheeses, fish and rice. At times the dish is deep fried or alternatively, baked. In addition, edible flowers are used, grown specially, in many colors,
used frequently as a garnish or to enhance the look of a platter or scattered on a table or served along with pastries. These flowers are infested with a number of insects and are prohibited for use without a meticulous inspection by competent persons.
Aroma Café – Rishon L’Tzion Central Bus Station
An inspection of the premises revealed the menus state “kosher” despite the fact the branch has no kashrut supervision. Appropriate legal measures are being taken against the store.
Slices Champagne Mushrooms (2500gram containers)
The item, barcode 7290004460105, manufactured in Spain, imported by Miki Ohz LTD, claims to be kosher under the supervision of Badatz Beit Yosef and approved for import by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. The Chief Rabbinate’s Import Division stated the item was never submitted for approval and the claim is fraudulent.
Southern Comfort
The only bottles of this product permitted for use in kosher establishments are those bearing the kosher certification from Badatz Beit Yosef and the import permit from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. It bears the code L010311038, the only acceptable code number. From Jerusalem Kosher News – www.jerusalemkoshernews.com -
jerusalemkn@gmail.com”.
June Alerts
- Alert posted on Mon June 21st, 2010
MISLABELED:
There has been a printing error with the labeling of the packaged Coffee Bean Challot which are sold in plastic bags.
The label mistakenly states both "Pareve" and "Kosher LA-D". It is being remedied immediately and the Challot remain Kosher LA - Parve as always. Thank you and Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi Jonathan Benzaquen
From the OK
As of May 1, 2010 due to Kashrus violations Meals on Wheels made by Benicor U.S.A., Brooklyn, NY, are no longer certified as kosher.
A limited number of America’s Choice Cheese Cinnamon and Apple Danishes (4 pack) were labeled OK instead of OK-D. The product is actually dairy.
From the Beth Din of Johannesburg
Production of BellyWashers’ drinks is being moved to a factory in China that is not kosher certified. The company has informed us that packaging for the new production coming from China will not bear the BD logo. Existing stock bearing the BD logo is still kosher certified and may be used.
From the OU
Original Kashkaval Sheep's Cheese (made in Bulgaria) from Corfu Foods Inc., Bensenville, IL. This product is NOT certified by the OU, and bears an unauthorized OU-D. The product is being withdrawn from the market.Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org
New Harvest Naturals Gluten Free Pound Cake from Abe's Place Gourmet Delicacies - Allentown, PA. Products previously certified by the OU are no longer certified by the OU. Products in packages that bear the OU certification symbol were produced under supervision and may be used.
Woeber's Mayo Gourmet - Roasted Chipotle Mayonnaise. This certified product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Packaging has been revised. The dairy content is insignificant, and therefore is botul (nullified).
America's Choice Hot Cocoa (26oz Hot Cocoa UPC 7 54807 29069 9 Date Code 05/04/11 MCA) A limited amount of these canisters inadvertently contain non-kosher marshmallows. Affected product is limited to those products bearing the date code BEST IF USED BY 05/04/11 MCA. Product with the code RCA is correctly labeled. Consumers should contact their Rabbi to determine the status of utensils that have come in contact with the above product. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org
From the CRC
The following revised whiskey alert and answers to some of your frequently asked questions has been sent out on behalf of AKO
Revised Whisky Alert
May 17, 2010
The AKO Executive Committee has reason to believe that there are large liquor companies in the United States which may be owned in whole or part by Jews. We are concerned that such companies may not have arranged for the sale of their chametz (mechiras chametz) during Pesach. These companies primarily manufacture bourbon, cordials, and American whiskey, and also deal in a small amount of Scotch and vodka.
Chametz-containing liquors owned, produced and/or aged by Jewish-owned companies over Pesach are forbidden as chametz she’avar alav haPesach.
Since many liquor products are aged for many years before they are sold to the public, it cannot be assumed that these beverages are acceptable for kosher use even if they are purchased a long time before or after Pesach.
Accordingly, we recommend that Kashrus Agencies and consumers change their policies and only consume those alcoholic beverages which [are free of standard kosher concerns and] are known to (a) be produced by a non-Jewish company or a Jewish-owned company which arranged for the sale of their chametz, (b) not contain any chametz, including not having chametz secondary grains or malted barley (bourbon and cordials are examples of items that may have these forbidden items), and/or (c) were not aged over Pesach (e.g. vodka).
The following are some brands which we believe to be subject to the above concern:
1792 Ridgemont
51 Ice
99 Schnapps
A. Smith Bowman
Absinthe
Ancient Age
Antique Collection
Barton
Blantons
Bowman
Buffalo Trace
California Deluxe
Canadian Host
Canadian Hunter
Canadian LTD
Canadian Supreme
Colonel Lee
Dr McGillicuddy’s
Eagle Rare
Elmer T Lee
Experimental Collection Fireball
Fleishmann’s
George T. Stagg
Hancock’s Presidents Reserve
Herbsaint
Highland Mist
House of Stuart
Imperial
Inver House
James Foxe
Kentucky Gentleman
Kentucky Tavern
Lauder’s
McAfee’s Benchmark
Mix 51
Mr. Boston
Northern Light
Old Charter
Old Thompson
Old Van Winkle
Pappy Van Winkle
Peychaud’s
Regan’s
Rich & Rare
Rock Hill Farms
Royal Canadian
Sazerac Rye
Ten High
Terra Brazilis
Thomas H. Handy
Tom Moore
Tyrconnell
Van Winkle
Very Old Barton
Virginia Gentleman
W L Weller
Consumers who already own one of these liquors are encouraged to ask their personal Rabbi whether returning the bottles to the store is considered to be having hana’ah (benefit) from chametz she’avar alav haPesach. Lastly, we note that this notification does not cover the serious question of the status of whisky (or other chametz) owned on Pesach by a Jewish distributor who does or does not arrange for the sale of his chametz; consumers are once again encouraged to discuss this question with their personal Rabbi.
For updated information or questions regarding this notification, please email AKO at liquor@akokosher.org.
Whisky Alert Questions and Answers
May 17, 2010
On May 6th AKO released an alert regarding whisky which has led to a considerable number of questions from consumers. This document will address the most common of those questions.
The alert was on AKO stationery and quoted the “AKO Executive Committee”. Pardon my ignorance, but who are these people?
AKO has been the umbrella group for national and community hashgachos in North America and beyond for the past 25 years. It currently has approximately 80 members and the Executive Committee is comprised of the administrators of the larger of those hashgachos including (alphabetically) cRc (Chicago), CRC/Hisachdus (Brooklyn), COR, Heart-K, Kof-K, MK, OK, OU, and Star-K.
2. I checked your list and think that it is missing some brands owned by the same companies, or you list brands that I think are owned by others. Are you sure your information is accurate?
We spent much time doing our due diligence in investigating the multiple layers of the companies involved, but of course it is always possible that we missed a few. If you have a specific example, please bring it to our attention and we’ll do our best to check into it.
Please note that our list does not include items which are merely distributed by the companies in question nor does it include any items (e.g. brandy, liqueurs) which we have always recommended as requiring a hashgachah.
3. The alert lists many brands. Is everything produced by these companies not recommended?
Not at all. As noted in the alert, some products are produced from 100% non-chametz or are not aged, and do not pose a concern of chametz she’avar alav haPesach.
It is worth noting that although Bourbon must legally contain at least 50% corn-based alcohol, it commonly contains chametz as (a) a secondary grain-source which may be 20-40% of the product, (b) malted barley used to breakdown the starches into fermentable sugar, and/or (c) backset from chametz fermentations. The simple understanding is that the presence of any of these forms of chametz would be enough to render the Bourbon chametz she’avar alav haPesach (see Mishnah Berurah 442:27 & 447:105), but people with specific questions are encouraged to consult with their local Rabbi for direction.
4. The alert states a number of facts such as that a Jew owns these companies and never performed mechiras chometz, however the language implies there was a safek (halachic doubt)?
The somewhat ambiguous language came from the legal department but the AKO Executive Committee and at least 8 Poskim associated with national hashgachos had numerous discussions before releasing this alert, and were convinced that there is no safek.
5. Are there not numerous halachic reasons to permit whisky owned by a Jewish company over Pesach?
The aforementioned group of Administrators and Poskim considered many possible reasons to be lenient including the owner’s possible mumar status,that whisky is produced via distillation (zei’ah), and a possible corporate structure of ownership. This group unanimously decided to publicize the alert, as none of the aforementioned reasons justified allowing a Jew to purchase these alcoholic beverages.
6. What if I already own a bottle of one of the listed liquors? Do I have to throw it out like other chametz she’avar alav haPesach?
Although all of the aforementioned Poskim recommended that a Jew not purchase these beverages in the future, some of them were willing to consider reasons to be lenient in specific situations for people who own considerable amounts of the affected whisky and/or would like to return unopened bottles to the store where they bought it. People with these types of questions are encouraged to consult with their local Rabbi who will direct them. [AKO is considering preparing some halachic literature for Rabbis to assist them in dealing with the complexities of the aforementioned shailos.]
However, it may be helpful for consumers to know that we believe that these companies were not always Jewish owned. Accordingly:
Any products listed on the original alert which were purchased by a consumer before Pesach 1992/5752 (and then sold via a personal mechiras chametz for the subsequent Pesach holidays), are recommended.
Any products listed on the following list which were purchased by a consumer before Pesach 2009/5769 (and then sold via a personal mechiras chametz for the subsequent Pesach holidays), are recommended:
1792 Ridgemont
99 Schnapps
Barton
Canadian Host
Canadian LTD
Canadian Supreme
Colonel Lee
Fleischmann’s
HighlandMist
House of Stuart
Imperial
Inver House
KentuckyGentleman
KentuckyTavern
Lauder’s
Mr. Boston
Northern Light
Old Thompson
Ten High
Tom Moore
Very Old Barton
For updated information or questions regarding this notification, please email AKO at liquor@akokosher.org.
From the Vaad Hakashrus of Northern California
The following restaurants are reliably certified by the Vaad Hakashrus of Northern California in the San Francisco Bay area:
AMBA
6464 Moraga Ave. Montclair Village, Oakland, CA (510) 339-8000
Gourmet fast food. Israeli falafel and dairy restaurant.
Kosher catering always available.
THE KITCHEN TABLE RESTAURANT
142 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA (650) 390-9388
Reservations thru Opentable.com
Upscale Glatt Kosher Restaurant featuring Artisanal Kosher Cuisine;
All bread Pas Yisrael; Shabbat take-out and corporate catering available
GRAND BAKERY
3264 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA (510) 465-1110
Full-service bakery; small café; kosher catering always
IZZY'S BROOKLYN BAGELS
477 California Ave Palo Alto, CA , 94306 (650) 329-0700
KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS: (only at the following locations)
(not Cholov Yisroel)
East Bay
32450 Dyer Union City , CA (510) 471-7924
S. Francisco & Peninsula
1575 Sullivan Daly City , CA (650) 985-5612
2146 Leghorn Street , Mountain View , CA (650) 254-1231
OAKLAND KOSHER FOODS
3419 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA (510) 839-0177
Full-service meat market and deli; kosher catering always
SABRA GRILL
419 Grant Ave . (near Bush), S. Francisco, CA 94108 (415) 982-3656 website
Meat restaurant, kosher catering always
TEL AVIV KOSHER MARKET
2495 Irving St. S. Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 661-7588
Full-service meat market and deli; kosher catering always
UPDATES FROM ISRAEL:
One may view the report online with accompanying photos which may be seen in the original Hebrew document posted after the English translation. - Chief Rabbinate of Israel, Kashrut Fraud Division
7 Sivan 5770 May 20, 2010
Table of Contents
Café V’Tavlinin (Coffee and Spices)
‘U’ Distributing
Chofit Hotel – Matte Asher Council
Kaftorei Chocolade (Chocolate Buttons)
Yarok Reshet Machsanei Mazon
Roladin LTD
Burger Bar – Carmiel
Hady Earl Grey Tea
Chevel Modi’in Rabbinate Notification
Non Kosher Ice Cream
JKN NOTE:
Café V’Tavlinin (Coffee and Spices)
32 Eitz Chaim Street – Shuk Machane Yehuda (Jerusalem), The store sells items in bags displaying the Badatz Beit Yosef logo.
In essence, the store does not have any kashrut supervision at all. (Item 1, photo on left side of Hebrew original)
‘U’ Distributing
Food items being distributed outside of Israel, primarily in France by the ‘U’ Company, which is using the OU kashrut insignia illegally as one can see on the firm’s website (http://www.magasins-u.com/ portailu/ national/supermarche- hypermarche-u). As a result, one may purchase such items with the belief they enjoy a legitimate hechsher when in essence, they may not be kosher.
The OU has called upon the Chief Rabbinate to assist in getting the word out, that it bears no responsibility for these items. Rabbonim are urged to pass the message along to congregants. (Item 2 in original Hebrew document. Photo on left side).
Chofit Hotel – Matte Asher Council
The Chofit Hotel in the Matter Asher Council district has lost its kashrut supervision. As such, the local rabbinate advises it bears no responsibility for the kashrut of the above-mentioned location.
Kaftorei Chocolade (Chocolate Buttons)
These chocolate buttons are selling in Israel, barcode 8697422650962, manufactured by Aris Gida, Turkey, import certificate 148.
They are marked kosher under Rabbi Yaakov Westheim, Manchester, Badatz Igud HaRabbonim – special chalav yisrael run, chalav yisrael from the time of milking, with approval of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. The folks at Igud HaRabbonim report the claim is bogus and the agency does not certify the product. (Item 4 in the original Hebrew document – photo on left side.
Yarok Reshet Machsanei Mazon
An inspection of this minimarket located at 61 Krinitzi Street in Ramat Gan reveals the store advertises as kosher but it does not have supervision from the Ramat Gan Rabbinate. It is noteworthy to add this company operates a number of stores and shoppers must validate a kosher certificate prior to shopping. (Number 5 in the original Hebrew document – photo on right side)
Roladin LTD
Following a number of complaints regarding the firm in question, which is located in the Park HaSharon in the Lev HaSharon Regional Council, under the supervision of the regional rabbinate, Rabbi Kubani Shlita. Items are marked ‘parve’ when in essence they are dairy. Other items were marked “kosher for Passover without Kitniot’ and also stating “for those who eat Kitniot only”.
Therefore mashgichim are urged to exhibit vigilance and to ensure products and labeling are in sync. (Item 6 in the original Hebrew
document – photo right side)
Burger Bar – Carmiel
A Burger bar located at 92 KKL Street in Carmiel, at the pedestrian mall (midrachov), is displaying a kosher sign but it lacks any kashrut from the local rabbinate as required by law. (Item 7 in the original Hebrew document – photo on the left side)
Hady Earl Grey Tea
Of late, a brand of Earl Grey tea from Sri Lanka, marketed under the “Hady” label is being sold in southern areas claiming kashrut
supervision from Badatz Hadar Kashrut, Rabbi Broida Shlita. Badatz officials’ and Rabbi Brodia report the kashrut claim is bogus
and the agency does not certify the tea. (Item 8 in the original Hebrew document – photo on the left side)
Chevel Modi’in Rabbinate Notification
The Chevel Modi’in Rabbinate requests the following notification be passed on to readers. This firm supplies food to many places, with kitchens operating in the jurisdiction displaying photocopied kosher certificate for “Mitbach Ha’em” (Mom’s Kitchen). The rabbinate states it does not grant kashrut to the company. Firms advertising that are not under the Rabbinate’s supervision
include:
1. Chevel Modi’in Industrial Zone – Osem main warehouse
2. I.M.U. – Chevel Modi’in Industrial Zone
3. Egged parking lot – Achisemach
4. Strauss – Airport Village
5. Amit – Airport Village
6. Diplomat – Airport Village
7. Machtashim – Airport Village
8. Pelephone – Airport Village
9. L.H.D. – Airport Village
10. Neviot – Airport Village
11. Pundak HaMachane – Moshav Beit Nechemia
In addition, the kosher certification was revoked from HaMakom Shel Ezra Grill House – Airport City, due to kashrut violations.
Non Kosher Ice Cream
With summer approaching, one must be aware of ice creams being sold that may not be kosher, or some selling ice cream and displaying a photocopies kosher certificate (which is not valid). Stores must have valid kosher certificates from the appropriate local Rabbinate, an original document, not a photocopy. Such businesses might be using chalav akum, or chalav akum powder. There may also be frozen fruits that present orla questions or possibly infested with insects. There may also be wafers that lack a hechsher. The public is urged to insist on seeing a valid kosher certificate and not to buy ice cream in a store that does not display a valid local rabbinate certificate.
The following advertise as kosher illegally or kashrut has been revoked:
REHOVOT
Min Haaretz Bakery – 8 Peretz Street – the store advertises as kosher mehadrin but does not have supervision from the local rabbinate.
TEL AVIV
Florentine Pizza – 31 Abarbenel Street – advertises as kosher but does not have a certificate from the Tel Aviv Rabbinate.
Ugot Da La Peh – 1 Even Givirol Street – advertises as kosher but does not have local rabbinate supervision as required by law.
Peninah HaSharma – 4 Mikve Yisrael Street - advertises as kosher but does not have local rabbinate supervision as required by law.
Bilbulei HaBeitzim Restaurant – 117 Allenby St, corner of Ben-Yehuda. advertises as kosher but does not have local rabbinate supervision.
JERUSALEM
Nichoach HaCafe – Har Hotzvim – the Jerusalem Rabbinate has reinstated the kosher supervision.
JKN NOTE:
As one finds in this update as well as previous updates, many times the enforcement division bulletins write “advertises as kosher but does not have local rabbinate supervision as required by law”.
I receive many emails regarding this so please, permit me to explain again.
The kosher law of the State of Israel, 1983, compels a business wishing to advertise as kosher to have a valid supervision from a
local rabbinate, which in essence is an arm of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, which is the only agency empowered under the law to grant supervision.
At times, one may display a kosher supervision without having a local rabbinate, resulting in the eatery or factory being listed in Kashrut Enforcement Division Updates, since the agency is responsible for upholding the law.
For most consumers, it is wise to adhere to the warnings and distance oneself from such places unless one is well versed and knows which private agencies are legitimate or which are bogus. Some of the ‘unauthorized’ agencies simply sell a sign that has no mashgiach or kosher certifying agency standing behind it. When the term “unauthorized” agency is used, it may be making reference to one of the bogus firms operating for profit, duping the public, but at times, it may also refer to a legitimate non-governmental agency.
If one cannot be certain, one would be wise to exhibit caution and seek out an eatery displaying a certificate from a familiar agency. There are too many bogus agencies operating, presenting impressive signs to the public, but in reality, do not provide kashrut!
Usually, or perhaps in most cases, the legitimate agencies will not grant kosher supervision unless a business has first received local rabbinate supervision, since such agencies do not wish to operate outside the law.
Therefore, if one sees a kosher certificate and it is not aside a local rabbinate certificate, in many cases the agency in question is
not legitimate and the kashrut of the establishment is in question.
The reverse however is not true, and seeing an unfamiliar ‘mehadrin’ sign aside a local rabbinate certificate does not guarantee the
legitimacy of the store’s kashrut regarding its mehadrin claim.
THE LINK TO THE ORIGINAL HEBREW DOCUMENT
http://www. jerusalemkoshernews.com/wp- content/uploads/5-21-10.pdf
------------------------------ ------------------------------ ------------------------
Rabbi Yaakov Sabag
Chief of Kashrut Division
Rabbi Rafi Yochai
Chief of National Kashrut Fraud Prevention
Dolce Plus Gummy Candies
These gummy (gumdrop) type candies imported from Spain claim to be kosher mehadrin under the supervision of Badatz Rambam, France. In reality, the Badatz agency does not certify the candies and the Chief Rabbinate of Israel has not authorized importing them. They are to be removed from store shelves immediately.
http://jerusalemkoshernews.com
www.jerusalemkoshernews.com - jerusalemkn@gmail.com”.
New Zealand bans kosher slaughter
May 28, 2010
SYDNEY, Australia (JTA) – New Zealand has banned shechita, the kosher slaughter of animals.
The country’s new animal welfare code, which took effect last Friday, mandates that all animals for commercial consumption be stunned prior to slaughter to ensure that they are treated “humanely and in accordance with good practice and scientific knowledge.”
The regulation has shocked the Jewish community.
“This decision by the New Zealand government, one which has a Jewish prime minister, is outrageous,” said Rabbi Moshe Gutnick, acting president of the Organization of Rabbis of Australasia. “We will be doing everything possible to get this decision reversed.”
Gutnick, who travels frequently to New Zealand to oversee shechita, added that “One of the last countries I would have expected to bring in this blatantly discriminatory action would have been New Zealand.”
David Zwartz, the chairman of the Wellington Jewish Council, agreed.
“I am sure there will objections made that this action is an infringement of the right of Jews to observe their religion,” he said.
Agriculture Minister David Carter rejected a recommendation that shechita be exempt from the new code.
The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee did recommend a dispensation for kosher slaughter in 2001, but the new code does not allow any exemptions.
Among other countries that have banned shechita are Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
May - Shavuot 2010/5770
- Alert posted on Tue May 18th, 2010
From the OU
CORRECTION: PACE SALSA WITHOUT THE O/U OR HALF MOON K ON THE LABEL REMAINS KOSHER CERTIFIED BY THE O/U
Citavo's French Vanilla Artificially Flavored Ice Coffee is marked with a regular OU (no 'D') although it is a dairy product. The item has been discontinued.
From the OK
Annie’s Euro American Bakery Longwood, FL, is distributing bakery products bearing an unauthorized OK symbol on the label. This company and all their products are NOT certified by OK Kosher Certification. Corrective measures are being taken.
Berripop Frozen Yogurt Stores may have signs posted indicating that their stores are certified by OK Kosher Certification. OK Kosher Certification does not certify these stores or their products. Corrective measures are being taken.
Meals on Wheels made by Benicor U.S.A., Brooklyn, NY, is no longer certified by OK Kosher Certification.
Jelly Belly Candies have been displayed in dispensers with the OK kosher sign on them. OK Kosher Certification does not certify these candies. They are certified by the OU.
From the COR
MexiCasa Nachos & Cheese Sauce Tortilla Chips
was inadvertently labeled as kosher with a COR 722 Dairy. This product is not kosher. Corrective measures have been taken.
The following products were inadvertently labeled with COR 398. These products are not under COR supervision. Corrective measures have been taken.
Nativa:
Blackberry Jam Organic
Blueberry Jam Organic
Morello Cherry Jam Organic
Raspberry Jam Organic
Strawberry Jam Organic
Presidents Choice:
Apricot Fruit Spread Organics
Blueberry Fruit Spread Organics
Raspberry Fruit Spread Organics
Strawberry Fruit Spread Organics
Woolworths:
Apricot Jam Organic
Cherry & Berry Jam Organic
Peach & Passion Fruit Jam Organic
Strawberry Jam Organic
Corrective measures have been taken.
The following products made by Crofters Food Ltd were inadvertently labeled with a COR symbol. These products are not COR certified. Corrective measures have been taken.
Crofters:
Apricot Organic Premium Spread
Black Currant Organic Premium Spread
Blood Orange Organic Premium Spread
Blueberry Preserve (Bake Stable)
Cherry Preserve (Bake Stable)
Four Fruit Organic Premium Spread
Lemon Ginger Flavour Preparation Organic Fruit Base For Yogurt
Mango Organic Premium Spread
Mango-Apricot Organic Fruit Base For Yogurt
Morello Cherry Organic Kefir & Yogurt Drink Base
Morello Cherry Organic Premium Spread
Peach Organic Fruit Base For Yogurt
Peach Organic Kefir & Yogurt Drink Base
Peach Passion Organic Premium Spread
Raspberry Organic Fruit Base For Yogurt
Raspberry Organic Kefir & Yogurt Drink Base
Raspberry Organic Premium Spread
Strawberry Organic Fruit Base for Ice Cream
Strawberry Organic Fruit Base For Yogurt, Strawberry Organic Kefir & Yogurt Drink Base
Strawberry Organic Premium Spread
Vanilla Organic Fruit Base For Yogurt
Wild Blackberry Organic Premium Spread
Wild Blueberry Organic Premium Spread
The following products made by Wolfe Honey Company were inadvertently labeled with a COR symbol. These products are not kosher.
Amazing Dads Organic BBQ Sauce Honey Lemon Raspberry
Amazing Dads Organic BBQ Sauce Honey Garlic
New restaurant certification. We are pleased to announce now under COR certification.
Mivgash Restaurant
398 Steeles Avenue West
Thornhill 905.370.0880
New restaurant certification. We are pleased to announce now under COR certification. This establishment is now under new ownership.
PIZZA CAFÉ
3774 Bathurst Street, Toronto
416.633.5678
From the CRC
Whisky Alert - The following alert has been sent out on behalf of the Association of Kashrus Organizations (AKO)
May 2010
The AKO Executive Committee has reason to believe that there are large liquor companies in the United States which may be owned in whole or part by Jews. We are concerned that such companies may not have arranged for the sale of their chametz (mechiras chametz) during Pesach. These companies primarily manufacture bourbon, cordials, and American whiskey, and also deal in a small amount of Scotch and vodka. Chametz-containing liquors owned, produced and/or aged by Jewish-owned companies over Pesach are forbidden as chametz she’avar alav haPesach. Since many liquor products are aged for many years before they are sold to the public, it cannot be assumed that these beverages are acceptable for kosher use even if they are purchased a long time before or after Pesach.
Accordingly, we recommend that Kashrus Agencies and consumers change their policies and only consume those alcoholic beverages which [are free of standard kosher concerns and] are known to (a) be produced by a non-Jewish company or a Jewish-owned company which arranged for the sale of theirchametz, (b) not contain any chametz, including not having chametz secondary grains or malted barley (bourbon and cordials are examples of items that may have these forbidden items), and/or (c) were not aged over Pesach (e.g. vodka).
The following are some brands which we believe to be subject to the above concern:
1792 Ridgemont
51 Ice
99 Schnapps
A. Smith Bowman
Absinthe
Ancient Age
Antique Collection
Barton
Blantons
Bowman
Buffalo Trace
Canadian Host
Canadian Hunter
Canadian LTD
Canadian Supreme
Colonel Lee
Dr McGillicuddy’s
Eagle Rare
Elmer T Lee
Experimental Collection
Fireball
Fleishmann’s
Hancock’s Presidents Reserve
Herbsaint
Highland Mist
House of Stuart
Imperial
Inver House
James Foxe
Kentucky Gentleman
Kentucky Tavern
Lauder’s
McAfee’s Benchmark
Mix 51
Mr. Boston
Northern Light
Old Charter
Old Thompson
Old Van Winkle
Pappy Van Winkle
Peychaud’s
Regan’s
Rich & Rare
Rock Hill Farms
Royal Canadian
Sazerac Rye
Ten High
Terra Brazilis
Tom Moore
Tyrconnell
Van Winkle
Very Old Barton
Virginia Gentleman
W L Weller
Consumers who already own one of these liquors are encouraged to ask their personal Rabbi whether returning the bottles to the store is considered to be having hana’ah (benefit) from chametz she’avar alav haPesach. Lastly, we note that this notification does not cover the serious question of the status of whisky (or other chametz) owned on Pesach by a Jewish distributor who does or does not arrange for the sale of his chametz; consumers are once again encouraged to discuss this question with their personal Rabbi.
For updated information or questions regarding this notification, please email AKO at liquor@akokosher.org.
Israel
25 Iyar 5770 May 9, 2010
Updated list of Eateries With Beit Yosef Supervision. Following is a listing of eateries in a number of cities around Israel with kashrut supervision from Beit Yosef.
The information furnished on May 4, 2010. As always, one must check any place for a valid kosher certificate before being seated or ordering.
ASHDOD
1. Zohara Café in City Hall Building
2. Kasa Dal Peppe (pizza) – City Hall Square
3. Medres Pizza – 5/6 Rosevitsky Street
4. Aluf HaShwarma – 121 Menachem Begin Blvd
5. Thermiso Restaurant (dairy/fish) – 2 HaNevi’im Street
6. Joey’s Restaurant (meat) – 3 HaBanim Street
7. LaShipud (meat) 155 Menachem Begin Blvd
8. Zohara (dairy/fish) 2 Herzl Street
9. Napoli Pizza – 2 HaAtzma’ut Street
ASHKELON
1. Toast Ta’im (pizza, dairy, fish) – 97 HaNasi Street
2. Shnitzliya (meat) – 34 Eli HaCohen Street
3. Pizza (pizza, dairy, fish) 1 Eli HaCohen Street
4. Pizza Pitzuach (pizza, dairy, fish) 101/5 Yerushalayim Blvd
BEERSHEVA
1. Pizza Bakery (pizza, pastries – dairy & parve) 48 HaShalom Street
BEIT SHEMESH
1. Leonardo Pizza Patzatz (dairy, fish) – 19 Derech Rabin
2. HaShuman (meat, falafel) – 21 Yigal Alon
3. Café Café (dairy,fish) Paz gas station at city entrance
BNEI BRAK
1. Steak Sandwich (fast food- meat) 121 Jabotinsky Street
2. Lev HaPizza (dairy, fish, pizza) 20 HaChalutzim
3. Hollywood Pizza (dairy, fish, pizza) 111 Jabotinsky
4. Pizzele (dairy, fish, pizza) 12 Jabotinsky
5. Burger Ranch (meat) 138 Jabotinsky Street
6. Burger Ranch (meat) Coca Cola Junction
7. Me’Taamei Teiman (meat) 20 Jabotinsky Street
HERZLIYA
1. Carmelis Bagels (parve) 6 Shenker Street
HOLON
1. Casta Del Pepper (pizza, dairy) 21 HaOrgim Street
2. Pizza Kimat Chinam (pizza, fish) 8 Dov Houz Street
3. Alef Alef Felafel (parve) 67 Chenkin Street
4. Jenana Felafel (parve) 81 Dov Houz Street
5. Lenor Mevorach Felafel (parve) 48 Eilat Street
6. Ratzon Felafel (parve) 41 Dov Houz Street
7. Pinat HaZela (meat) 168 Yerushalayim Blvd
HAIFA
1. Domino Pizza (dairy) 61 Jabotinsky Street, Kiryat Motzkin
2. Felafel HaBayit (meat fast food) 60 Derech Ben Tzvi, Kiryat Chaim
TIVERIA
1. Pizza Bereishit (dairy) 5 Alchadiff Street
2. Merkaz HaPizza (dairy, fish) 36 Alchadiff Street
3. Pizzarina (dairy, fish) 14 Neiberg Street
4. Weizman Pizza (dairy, fish) 30 HaGalil Street
5. Shipudei HaAgam (fast food meat) HaYarkon
6. Pizzerla (dairy,fish) 10 Shimon Dahan (+ HaNevi’im Mall temporarily)
JERUSALEM
1. Shemenet HaNevi’im (dairy, fish) 70 HaNevi’im Street
2. Shlomie Burekas (dairy) 44 Agrippas Street
3. Coffee Shai Mehadrin (dairy) Hadassah College Beit HaKerem Campus
4. Burger Ranch (meat) Malcha Mall food court
5. Tzion HaKatan (meat) 15 Kanfei Nesharim Street
6. Marvad HaKisamim (meat) 15 King George Street
7. Bar Bis (meat) 18 Yad HaCharutzim Street
8. HaShamen Grill (meat) 3 Luntz Street
9. HaShamen Grill (meat) Malcha Mall food court
10. Pinati (meat) Malcha Mall food court
11. Pinati (meat) 66 Kanfei Nesharim Street
12. Pinati (meat) 22 Yad Charutzim Street
13. Ahavat HaYam (dairy, fish) Sderot Ben-Tzvi gas station
14. Dolce Latte (dairy, fish) 45 Jaffa Street, 2 Luntz Street
15. Café Café (dairy, fish) Center One
KFAR SABA
1. Boutique HaBatzek (dairy, fish, parve) 42 Weitzman Street
2. Pizza Patzatz (dairy) 42 Weitzman Street
3. Pizza Kings 43 Weitzman (dairy)
4. Eitan Falafel (parve) 60 Weitzman Street
LOD
1. Bichat Shlomo (meat) 1 Nasi Blvd.
AKKO
1. Taboon Pizza (dairy, fish) 30 Ben-Ami Street
2. Almondo Pizza (meat) 34 Effroni Street
PETACH TIKVAH
1. Pizza Patzatz (dairy) 29 Tzfat Street
2. Pizza Hut Mehadrin (dairy, fish) 1 Rishon L’Tzion
3. Eli Falafel (parve) 12 Moholiver Street
4. 4-Teamim Falafel (parve) 4 Bentzion Galis Street
5. Burger Ranch (meat) 72 Jabotinsky Street
6. Salsa in the Park (meat) 94 Pe’er Arazim
7. Coffee Inn (dairy) Canion Avnet shopping center
8. Café Café (dairy, fish) 16 Moshe Dayan Street
9. Café Hillel Mehadrin (dairy, fish) Chaim Ozer, corner of Wolfson St.
KATZRIN
1. Pizza Patzatz (dairy, fish) Golan Heights
KIRYAT ATA
1. Yogurt Bar’i (dairy) 9 Zevulun Street
2. Pizza (dairy) 2 Chenkin Street
3. Pizza Kimat Chinam (dairy) 23 HaAtzma’ut Street
4. HaPina Restaurant (meat) 7 Zevulun Street
RISHON L’TZION
1. Pina Shel David (meat) 22 Yerushalayim Blvd
2. Pizza Kimat Chinam (dairy) 119 Rothschild
3. Falafel (parve) 48 Yerushalayim Blvd
4. El Gaucho Mehadrin (meat) 40 HaMaccabim
5. Café Café (dairy, fish) 17 Sakarov Street
RA’ANANA
1. Taboon HaMangal (meat) 18 Malacha
2. Taboon HaMangal (meat) 74 Achuza Street
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Jerusalem Kosher News – www.jerusalemkoshernews.com - jerusalemkn@gmail.com”.
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May Alerts
- Alert posted on Tue May 11th, 2010
From the Star K
Although Safeway Supermarkets is a non-Jewish corporation, the Eastern Seaboard Safeway stores order 80% of their groceries from C & S, a Jewish distributor. These products will arrive in stores by April 18th. Chometz which was purchased immediately after Pesach may be used. However, for three weeks starting from April 18th through May 9th, 2010, chometz products such as cereals and pasta should not be purchased from Safeway.
From the RCC
Smart & Final's "First Street" Label HOMESTYLE POTATO SALAD is confirmed Dairy Non-Chlolov Yisrael.
From the OK
Please be advised that Kontos Ktaifi Pastry Dough is certified kosher, pareve. This product was accidentally mislabeled as dairy. Labeling is being corrected.
From the CRC
Effective April 23, 2010, Stoller Trucking, located in Gridley Illinois, is no longer certified by the cRc.
From the OU
Pace Salsa is no longer kosher.
Olympus Authentic Greek Kefalotyri (cheese) bears an unauthorized OU symbol. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or email kashalerts@ou.org
Key Food I.Q.F. Broccoli Spears bears an unauthorized Half Moon K symbol and is being withdrawn from the marketplace. Corrective action is being taken.
From the COR
This is to advise that Chocolate Signatures Inc -- COR 669- is no longer under COR certification.
Certification has been terminated due to kashrus violations. Any product manufactured from March 29, 2010 and after, should not be used even when bearing a COR symbol.
Dairy Without “D” Designation
Value Red's Non-Dairy Creamer - This certified product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Corrective action is being taken.
From the RCC
Please note that Hamisada restaurant is no longer certified by the RCC in spite of the appearance of the RCC logo on their sign, menu or business cards. In our assessment the establishment must have a Mashgiach and they have not been able to maintain one.
THE FOLLOWING RESTAURANT IS NOT KOSHER:
NEW OU Kosher DVD
"Whats Wrong with this Chicken?" Featuring Rav Yisroel Belsky with Rabbis Nosson Goldberg and Chaim Loike. All one needs to know about the kashrus, anatomy, and physiology of chickens. $10 per copy
Previously released OU Kosher DVDS- "Kosher Kidz , Kosher Fish" , "Kosher Birds" , "Kosher Meat", and "Insect Free - Checking Vegetables" - ALL 6 DVDs @ $40.00
ORDER from Sarane@ou.org
From the Star K - NEWS FROM ISRAEL:
According to El Al’s Rav Hayut, even the duty free at Ben-Gurion International Airport which sold its chametz continued selling chametz during Pesach, transgressing the sale.
The rav points out however that El Al’s chametz was sold in strictest adherence to halacha, sold to a non-Jew by Rav Wosner, and it was under lock and key, stored away during yomtov in compliance with halacha. He recommends buying duty free items on board El Al flights to avoid problems
Treif Meat Delivery Intercepted in Israel Inspectors have succeeded in confiscating 700 kilograms (1,540 LBS) of illegal meat originating in PA (Palestinian Authority) autonomous areas, on its way to the Israeli marketplace.
A truck carrying the tainted treif meat was stopped at Charish unction, with health inspectors reporting it originated in the PA village of Barta’a.
Once again, B’chasdei Hashem treif and diseased meat was prevented from infiltrating the marketplace. The same occurs with illegal eggs from PA areas and at times, vegetables with unacceptably high levels of Echoli, the result of irrigation in sewage water.
It has been learned the meat was sent to the PA by Argentina and Brazil as a humanitarian gesture for PA residents. It was stolen and making its way to the Israeli marketplace under the guise of a kosher eatable product
One may view the report online with accompanying photos which may be
seen in the original Hebrew document posted after the English
translation.
http://www. jerusalemkoshernews.com/wp- content/uploads/04-28-10.pdf
Chief Rabbinate of Israel
Kashrut Enforcement Division
Kashrut Alert – 19
13 Iyar 5770
April 27, 2010
The Rabbinate has removed its hechsher from Meshek Kroiter insect-free greens after laboratory inspection revealed infestation in the company’s cauliflower and broccoli.
As such, stores and events under Rabbanut supervision may not use the product. (Photo on the right side of item 1 in the original Hebrew document.
****
A surprise inspection of the Alei HaEmek Company revealed that the ompany revealed produce was being sealed in wrappers attesting to “mehadrin” kashrut and an “insect-free” product.
A probe conducted by inspectors with Rabbi Moshe Suissa Shlita, the chief rabbi of the Emek-Chefer region, revealed that the Rabbinate does not grant a hechsher to the company’s products marketed under the names “Alei Mehudar” and “Alei Alei” to permit certifying them as insect-free.
As such, stores and events under Rabbanut supervision may not use the product. (Photo on the left side of item 2 in the original Hebrew original).
****
An inspection of the Yevulei HaNegev Company revealed that despite having lost its kosher certification, it continues to wrap greens in packaging claiming to have kashrut supervision from the Netivot Rabbinate and Rabbi David Karei Shlita of Moshav Zamrat.
The severity of the company’s actions led to a meeting of the appropriate officials in the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, which has now instructed kashrut agencies to refrain from granting certification to this firm.
As such, stores and events under Rabbanut supervision may not use the product.
****
An inspection of the Café 10 Company located at 6 HaSadna Street in Petach Tikvah revealed the firm exhibited a fraudulent kosher certificate in the name of the Petach Tikvah Rabbinate. The company must not be permitted to supply food for functions certified by the
Rabbinate.
****
Mivchar Mamtakei Pralines – 10 miniatures select Belgian chocolate pralines – (barcode 5411281420800) by the DucDo Company, displays a kosher claim for “Passover 5770, for those who use powdered non-chalav
Yisrael milk powder, under the supervision of Rabbi Aryeh Ralbag, USA with approval of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel).
A probe revealed the product does not have approval of the Chief Rabbinate and it should be removed from store shelves (Item 5 on the right side in the original Hebrew document).
****
The Chief Rabbinate National Kashrut Division reports removing the kosher certification of the Shemem HaKfar olive oil (barcode 7290008431019). In actuality, the product is manufactured without kashrut supervision and now bears an unauthorized kosher claim on the product label. (Item 6 on the left side in the original Hebrew
document).
In addition, the kashrut certification was revoked from the Merkaz HaPitzuchim in Sachnin. This company produces seeds and dried fruits and coffee, but the Chief Rabbinate does not grant kosher supervision and therefore assumes no responsibility.
****
Oil being sold under the ‘Teva’ label (barcode 7290008199155) bears a label claiming “kosher l’mehadrin’. The Chief Rabbinate Kashrut Enforcement Division stated that this oil and any other oils produced
by Mr. Moshe Carmel is not certified and there are concerns regarding its kashrut.
This is due to the fact that he is a repeat offender, apprehended on numerous occasions making false kashrut claims. (Item 7 on the right side in the original Hebrew document).
****
Papagena Vanilla Sticks with 64% Cocoa – (9002859033629) and a chocolate covered biscuit filled with cocoa cream and nuts (barcode
9002859032646) claim to kosher under the supervision of Badatz Rambam – baked by Jews and containing non-chalav yisrael milk powder.
A probe of the products reveal they are not approved by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel for import, and there are genuine concerns regarding the kashrut integrity of the items, originating in Austria.
After Rabbinate officials received information from the Taago Company pertaining to the makeup of the products coming out of Austria, it was learned that they are not kosher.
Therefore, the items mentioned should immediately be removed from store shelves. Legal action is being taken against the importer, Kuf.
Aleph. LTD, 7 Taas Street, Kfar Saba. (Item 8 on the left side in the original Hebrew document).
****
Chocolate and vanilla flavored petti beurre biscuits packaged under the ‘Ma’afe HaTeva’ (Natural Bakery) name (barcode 7290008723121),
sold in the Kim’at Chinam stores around the country, do not indicate which agency has certified the products as kosher. Without specifying the source of the kosher certification, one may not use the items mentioned and they should immediately be removed from store shelves.
(Photo 9 on the right side in the original Hebrew document).
****
Establishments operating illegally & revocation of kosher supervision:
BEERSHEVA Ad A’lot HaShachar Catering - the local rabbinate is no longer responsible for the kashrut as the company moved to the Palmachim area.
Ta’amim Mul Nof Catering - the local rabbinate is no longer responsible for the kashrut as the company moved to the Palmachim area.
BEIT SHEMESH
Glitt Butcher Shop owned by Assi Cohen (5 Derech Yitzchak Rabin) – kosher certification was removed due to kashrut violations.
HERZLIYA
Mifgash HaSteak Restaurant owned by Rami Frischman (7 Shenker St) – kosher certification was removed due to chilul shabbat.
ZEVULUN
Kilufi HaTazfon Company located in Kfar Bialik (Kfar Chassidim) – kosher certification was removed due to kashrut violations.
HOLON
HaPina HaLohetet Restaurant located at 43 Dov Hauz Street – kosher certification was removed due to kashrut violations.
Café Bar Romi located at 25 Kugel Blvd. – kosher certification was removed due to kashrut violations.
Atliz – 102 Sokolov Street – claims to be kosher but lacks supervision from the local Rabbinate.
Tzimeret HaYerakot -47 Sokolov Street (Tzimeret Building) – the store receipts claim ‘under the supervision of the Rabbinate’ but this claim is false and he does not have a legal kosher certification.
Distributer supplying ice cream stores located at 25 HaMerkava St – he claims his products are kosher but opens on shabbat and does not have legal kosher supervision.
TIVERIA
Refalu Restaurant – Pedestrian Mall – kosher certification was removed due to kashrut violations.
YAVNE
Sushi Bar in the Dor Alon gas station – claims to be kosher but lacks any supervision.
JERUSALEM
Nichoach HaCafe located in the Har Chotzvim High Tech Park – kosher certification was removed by the Jerusalem Rabbinate.
CARMIEL
Burger Bar located on the pedestrian mall at 92 KKL St. – kosher certification was removed due to kashrut violations.
MAALE ADUMIM
Teiman Catering in Mishur Adumim is not under the Maale Adumim Rabbinate.
Pastry of Deli section (uncertain) in the Rami Levy supermarket branch is not under the supervision of the Maale Adumim Rabbinate.
Yainot Beitan bakery section located on Tzemach HaSadeh St. is not under the supervision of the Maale Adumim Rabbinate.
RA’ANANA
Ma’afiyat HaKfar bakery located at 2 Eliezer Yaffa Street advertises as kosher but does not have kashrut supervision from the local rabbinate.
TEL AVIV
Misada Shel Pam Restaurant at 103 Herzl St advertises as kosher but does not have Rabbanut supervision.
Shimshiri Restaurant at 99 Nachlat Binyamin St advertises in ‘kosher mehadrin’ but only has regular non-mehadrin supervision.
****
LAG B’OMER
To avoid chilul shabbat (shabbat desecration) on motzei shabbat Lag B’Omer, the Chief Rabbinate calls on people to have their traditional bonfires on Sunday, not motzei shabbat (Saturday night).
****
Rabbi Yaakov Sabag
Chief of Kashrut Division
Rabbi Rafi Yochai
Chief of National Kashrut Fraud Prevention
www.jerusalemkoshernews.com - jerusalemkn@gmail.com”.
New OU Products
- Alert posted on Tue November 17th, 2009
NEW O/U PRODUCTS:
Brand--Honeydrop
Apples and Honey-Honey Infused Beverage, OU
Blood Oranges and Honey-Honey Infused Beverages, O
Blueberries and Honey-Honey Infused Beverages, OU
Chamomile, Tea and Honey-Honey Infused Beverage, OU
Brand—BOT
Berry BOT Fortified Water, OU,
Grape BOT Fortified Water, OU,
Lemon BOT Fortified Water, OU,
Orange BOT Fortified Water, OU
Brand--Tully’s Coffee from Green Mountain Coffee Roasters
Breakfast Blend Coffee, OU
Colombia Coffee, OU
Espresso Roast Coffee, OU
French Roast Coffee, OU
Holiday Coffee, OU
Kenya Coffee, OU
Madison Blend Coffee, OU
Spinelli Blend Coffee, OU
Brand—Gourme from Gourme Cikolata San Ve Tic. Sti-Istanbul, Turkey
Dark Chocolate (Cholov Yisroel) OU-D Symbol Required, OU
Milk Chocolate (Cholov Yisroel) OU-D Symbol Required, OU
White Chocolate (Cholov Yisroel) OU-D Symbol Required, OU
Brand-- Empire Iced Tea from Hansens’s Beverage Co.
Lemon Iced Tea, OU
Mango Iced Tea, OU
Raspberry Iced Tea, OU
Sweet Tea Iced Tea, OU
Brand –Peace Tea from Hansens’s Beverage Co.
Green Tea, OU
Imported Ceylon Tea, OU
Razzleberry Tea, OU
Sweet Lemon Tea, OU
Brand-- Function from MD Drinks
Alternative Energy Strawberry Guava, OU
Light Weight Acai Pomegranate, OU
Light Weight Pink Grapefruit, OU
Vacation Pacific Coconut, OU
Poland Spring Nature’s Blend from Nestle Waters North America
Lemon Spring Water & Real Juice, OU
Pomegranate Spring Water And Real Juice, OU
Raspberry Spring Water & Real Juice, OU
Strawberry Spring Water & Real Juice, OU
Brand –Peter Herring from Peter Herring Ab, Sweden
Cherry Liquer, OU
Coffee Liqueur, OU
Brand—Plaza Sweets from Plaza Sweets, Inc.
Almond Jewel Cookies, OU-D
Banana Bread, OU-D
Brazilian Bar, OU-D
Carrot Cake, OU-D
Chocolate Brownies All, OU-D
Chocolate Dynamite Cake Individual, OU-D
Coconut Key Lime Bar, OU-D
Golden Pecan Tart 7/10, OU-D
Linzer Bar, OU-D
Pear Tart Individual, OU-D
Triple Chocolate Brownies, OU-D
November Alerts
- Alert posted on Tue November 17th, 2009
From the OU:
De Franco’s Espresso Secrets Bears an unauthorized OU. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Product Union at 212.613.8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org
Bazzini Assorted Swedish Fish This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol and is being withdrawn from the marketplace. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org
Instant Oatmeal Fruit & Cream Variety Pack under the following brands; Richfood, Jewel, Shaw’s, Flavorite, Shop ‘N Save, Acme, Cub, and Albertsons. This Supervalu product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised.
FROM THE O/K:Please be advised that as of November 10, 2009 OK KOSHER CERTIFICATION has revoked our certification of Ouri’s Superior Catering Brooklyn, NY and Ouri’s Sports Kosher Catering Bronx, NY Contact OK Kosher Certification at 718-756-7500 , info@ok.org
Please be advised that due to a corporate decision by ConAgra Foods, Inc., Andy Capp’s Fries are no longer certified kosher. The OK-D symbol has been removed from Andy Capp’s labels.
Any Andy Capp’s products still on the market with labels bearing the OK-D symbol were produced under OK-D supervision and are kosher.
From the Star-K:
Electrolux & Frigidaire Freezers with Sabbath Mode
Electrolux & Frigidaire freezers with Sabbath Mode features are not
certified by Star-K. We urge consumers whenever purchasing new
appliances to either check our website http://www.star-k.org/cons-appl.htm
or call our office at 410-484-4110 .
VITALITY CELLWISE a Melaleuca CellWise Nutritional Supplement, is no longer certified by the Star-K.
FROM KOSHERSTARBUCKS.COM: Due to a new product being market tested, we no longer recommend any Frappuccino beverages in the following areas. Dallas, TX · Austin, TX · Atlanta, GA We hope to have more information soon.
Safeway stores in the U.S., including the Dominick’s Stores in Chicago area, sell a full line of products under the “Eating Right Kids” brand, including a line of flavored vitamin enhanced waters. The shrink over-wrap of the Fruit Punch flavor mistakenly bears an OU as this particular flavor is not kosher due to the grape juice content. All other flavors of the flavored vitamin enhanced waters under the “Eating Right Kids” brand are kosher when bearing an OU on the label.
Shatnez was discovered in Richard Harris (China) Men’s wool pants, currently sold in Jewish stores in Lakewood. It had a blue linen scrap behind the clip. Lakewood Shatnez Laboratory · 661 7th Street · Lakewood, NJ · 08701 · (732) 364-7056
From New Square Rabbinical Kashrus Council: nsqkosher@thejnet.com
Please be advised that milk products being marketed under the new label BEST SQUARE is not under the supervision of our Beis Din and we take no responsibility for the Kashruth of any products being marketed under the above mentioned label name. BEST SQUARE is not under the supervision
of our Beis Din and we take no responsibility for the Kashruth of any
products being marketed under the above mentioned label
FROM THE RCC:
Please be advised that effective immediately, Classic Raphy's catering is no longer certified by the RCC.
Following bakeries are certified Yashan and Pas Yisrael for the current Chodosh season:
Classic Le Palais
Renaissance
Schwartz
Unique
Following non-retail bakeries are Pas Yisrael:
Ara-Z Lavash
Glendale Fine Bakery – Only Barbary
International Pita
FROM KOLA: (Rabbi Benzaquen)
Effective immediately, Classic Raphy’s catering is certified by KOLA – Rabbi Benzaquen
Mocha Restaurant, a dairy restaurant on Ventura Blvd. is now certified by KOLA
VAAD OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA:
The Kitchen Table- First artisnal kosher gourmet restaurant in the Bay Area. Award winning meats, vegetarian dishes and hand-crafted desserts. Mashgiach temidi, glatt kosher, meticulous kashrus standards adhered to. Beautiful indoor, outdoor dining, take-out available. At 142 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA, 94041, 6503909388. See their website at thekitchentablerestaurant.com
East Bay
New Restaurant, Amba- 6464 Moraga Avenue, Montclair, CA 94611, Middle-Eastern Parve and Cholov Yisroel Dairy menu, moderately priced in a gourmet setting
Updates
Good To Go is a new O/U dairy restaurant in Valley Village,CA.
Located at 12417 Burbank Blvd. 818 808-8333 .
Mocha Restaurant, a dairy restaurant in Van Nuys,next door to Bocca Restaurant, a meat restaurant, are not connected to one another and hasa different hashgacha. It is reliably certified by KOLA—Rabbi Benzaquen
NEWS FROM ISRAEL: Recommended restaurants
Badatz Rav Rubin
1. Achuzat Jerusalem Hall (meat/Center)
2. Eli’s Restaurant (meat/near Mir Yeshiva)
3. Barbeque B’Shefa (meat/Schunat Belz)
4. Basarim (meat/Tiberias) **
5. Bonkers Bagels (dairy/Old City)
6. Burger Deli (meat/Schunat Belz)
7. Burgers Bar (meat/Geula)
8. Burgers Bar (meat/Givat Shaul)
9. Burgers Bar (meat/Old City)
10. Chafetz Chaim (meat/center)
11. Chafetz Chaim (meat/Givat Shaul)
12. Chafetz Chaim Guest House (meat/Kibbutz Chafetz Chaim)**
13. Coffee Bagel (dairy/Old City)
14. Dr. Toast (dairy/Shmuel HaNavi)
15. Gadya Dairy (dairy/Even Sapir)
16. Glidaland (dairy/Beit Shemesh)**
17. Green Good Food (dairy/Rechavia)
18. Grill Burger (meat/Beit Shemesh)**
19. Grill Burger (meat/Har Nof)
20. HaMushonim Steakhouse (meat/Har Nof)
21. Har Nof Bagels (dairy/Har Nof)
22. HaSaviah Restaurant (meat/Shmuel HaNavi)
23. Heimishe Kitchen (meat/Givat Shaul)
24. Holy Bagel (baked goods/Talpiot)
25. Icing Bagels (dairy/Shmuel HaNavi)
26. LaKaza (meat/ Geula)
27. Lucky (meat/Givat Shaul)
28. Miznon HaPisha (meat/Bayit Vegan)
29. Modi (meat/Har Nof)
30. Myers Catering (meat/Moshav Ora)
31. Nina’s Café (dairy/Ramat Eshkol)
32. Off the Square (dairy – center)
33. Palace Hall (Talpiot)
34. Pizza, Bar Ilan (dairy/Bar Ilan)
35. Pizza, Dr. (dairy/Bar Ilan)
36. Pizza, HaMerkaz (dairy/Petach Tikvah) **
37. Pizza, Jerusalem 2 (dairy/Har Nof)
38. Pizza, Mamash Chinam (dairy/Shmuel HaNavi)
39. Pizza, Oh My Gosh (dairy/Har Nof)
40. Pizza, Rimini (dairy/Ramat Eshkol)
41. Pizza, Royal (dairy/N’vei Yaakov)
42. Refael Falafel (meat/Ramot 3)
43. Royal Catering (meat/Elad)**
44. Sam Bagels (daily/ Ramat Eshkol)
45. Sam Bagels (dairy/Geula)
46. Sam Bagels factory (baked goods/Gilo)
47. Savata U’Bracha Restaurant (meat/ near Mir)
48. Shaulzon Fish (Har Nof)
49. Tehillim Tafshilim (meat/Ramat Eshkol)
50. Tz’nani Shwarma (meat/Geula)
51. Tzchipupu (meat/Jerusalem center)
52. Uptown Burger (meat/Har Nof)
53. Yad Avraham Steakhouse (meat/Ramot 4)
54. Yummies (meat/Shmuel HaNavi)
55. Yankele Super Ohf (meat/Har Nof)
56. Yeshiva Karlin (meat/Geula)
57. Yiddishe Essen Restaurant (meat/Ramat Gan)**
**Signifies location outside of Jerusalem
Eateries no longer appearing include:
1. Boogie (Ramat Eshkol)
2. HaShikma Burger (Har Nof)
3. Miznon HaRova (Old City)
4. Mr. Shwarma (Har Nof)
5. Refael Pizza (Ramot 3)
6. Shake Fruits (Mir)
7. Solomon Catering (Center)
8. Toast and Pizi (Rechavia
Following is list of OU-Israel supervised restaurants and hotels in Israel, all being in Jerusalem. The list was prepared for JKN on Thursday, November 5, 2009.
As always, when you enter a restaurant or make a hotel reservation, double check that the kashrut you are seeking is still applicable.
Hotels and Guest-Houses
Bayit Vegan Guest House
8 Hapisga Street
02-641-6402
Ramada Jerusalem Hotel
Ruppin Bridge at Herzl Blvd.
02 659-9999
Jerusalem Plaza Hotel
47 King George Street
02-629-8659
Restaurants and Cafes
Agas VeTapuach (dairy)
Building 6, Kikar Safra
02-623-0280
Pituyim Café (dairy)
5 Rachel Imeinu Street
02-566-2899
Pituyim Café (dairy)
9 King Solomon Street (Mamilla)
02-500-4006
Papagaio
3 Yad Charutzim Street (meat)
02-674-5745
Red Heifer (meat and fish)
38 King George Street
02-624-0504
Taiku (meat and fish)
31 Emek Refaim Street
02-566-5262
Velka Café
5 Ibn Shaprut Street (dairy)
02-566-5755
BADATZ BAIT YOSEF:
JERUSALEM
1. Aldo Ice Cream 40 Jaffa Street (dairy)
2. Aldo Ice Cream Central Bus Station (dairy)
3. Lalush Bakery 34 Agrippas Street (dairy)
4. Frenchi Bakery 110 Derech Beit Lechem (dairy/parve)
5. Marzipan Bakery 44 Machane Yehuda (dairy/parve)
6. Marzipan Bakery factory 8 HaYuzma Street, Atarot Industrial Park
(dairy/parve)
7. Hillel Café 33 Pierre Koenig Street (dairy)
8. Bisto Toast and Sandwiches 70 HaNavi’im Street (parve/dairy-fish)
9. Si HaGrill Restaurant 100 Shmuel HaNavi Street (meat)
10. Soninu Pizza 52 Agrippas Street (dairy)
11. Dolce Latte 2 Luntz Street (dairy)
12. Burger Ranch Malcha Mall (meat)
13. Tzion HaKatan Grill 15 Kanfei Nesharim (meat)
14. Marvad HaKisamim 58 King George (Heichal Shlomo)(meat)
15. HaShamen Grill Malcha (meat)
16. HaShamen Grill 3 Luntz Street (meat)
17. Pinati Humos 66 Kanfei Nesharim (meat)
18. Pinati Humos 22 Yad Harutzim (meat)
19. Café Café Center 1 (dairy fish)
20. Café Café Pisgat Ze’ev Shopping Center (dairy fish)
21. Hillel Café 1 Ramat Beit HaKerem (dairy-fish)
22. Hillel Café Hadassah Ein Kerem Mall (dairy fish)
23. Hillel Café 54 Emek Refaim Street (dairy fish)
24. Café 6 Uruguay Street (dairy-parve)
25. Marzipan Bakery 5 Rachel Imeinu Street (parve-dairy)
TIVERIA
1. Yossi’s Bakery HaGalil (parve/dairy)
2. Bakery 26 HaBanim (parve/dairy)
3. Elite Bakery 22 HaEmakim (parve/dairy)
4. HaDerech Bakery 2 Weizman (parve/dairy)
5. Pizza and Pizza 2 Neuberg (dairy/fish)
6. Bereshit Pizza 5 Alchadiff (dairy/fish)
7. Merkaz HaPizza 36 Alchadiff (dairy/fish)
8. Weizman Pizza 30 HaGalil (dairy/fish)
9. HaAgam Shipudim HaYarkon (meat)
10. Pizzarela Restaurant and Pizza 10 Shimon DaHan (dairy/fish)
11. Arna Restaurant and Pizza 20 HaBanim (dairy/fish)
BNEI BRAK
1. Lev HaPizza 75 HaMaccabim (dairy/fish)
2. Hollywood Pizza 111 Jabotinsky (dairy/fish)
3. Pizzahaliya 12 Jabotinsky (dairy-fish)
4. Chalutzim Falafel 20 Chalutzim (parve)
5. Burger Ranch 138 Jabotinsky (meat)
6. Burger Ranch Gas station @ Coca Cola Jct (meat)
BEIT SHEMESH
1. Falafel and Meats 1 Reuven (Merkaz Shenfeld) (meat)
2. HaShamen 21 Yigal Alon (meat)
RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS – OTHER RECOMMENDED HASHGACHOS
Village Green
Vegetarian Food– 33 Jaffa Street – 02-625-3065
Under the supervision of Badatz Machzikei Hadas – Belz
www.village-green.co.il
The Village Green is all ‘bishul yisrael’ for both Ashkenazim and Sephardim. All dairy products are
‘chalav yisrael’ mehadrin. All fruits and vegetables are of course shmitah l’chumra,
Café Rimon –Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Dulcia Latte –Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Pizza Sabbaru–Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Buzpe Bakery –Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Course Al Ha’Aish Dairy–Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Course Al Ha’Aish – meat –Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Kourisin’Ne”Eman Bakery’Home Pizza –Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Sambooki’Tai Noodles Chineese –Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Angel – Yerushalayim Mehadrin
Halaz – Paz gas station – R” Machpud
Berman Bakery – Aida Charaidis
Abadi Bakery – Aida Charaidis
Ma’Adane Chen – Badatz Aida Charaidis
Larry’s Pizza – Aida Charaidis
Muskat – Machzikai Hadas Belz
Tzion Hakatan – Bais Yoseph
Drori Burger – Bais Yoseph
Ben Ami Coffee – Badatz Bais Yosef
Korisin (Meat)
Malcha Mall
679-1088
Rabbanut Mehadrin
Noya – Meat (downtown)
3 Shlomtzion HaMalka Street
625-7311
Rabbanut mehadrin
Ahavat Haiam (Fish)
Paz Gas Station Ben-Zvi Avenue, Opposite Saker Garden
623-6767
Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin
Café Ne’eman (Dairy)
Malcha Mall
679-1515
Rabbanut mehadrin
Corus Restaurant (Dairy)
43 Yirmiyahu Street (Center 1)
538-3507
Rabbanut Mehadrin
Dagim Bechatzer (Fish)
31 Jaffe Street (Feinberg Courtyard)
622-2524
Rabbanut Mehadrin
Holy Bagel (Dairy)
220 Jaffe Street (near Central Bus Station)
538-5806
Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin
Keyara (Meat)
8 Ramban Street (Windmill)
566-3271
Jerusalem Rabbinate – Agudat Yisrael Mehadrin
Muscat (Dairy/Fish)
24 Kanfei Nesharim (Givat Shaul)
652-4414
Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin
Pera e Mela (Meat)
Pears & Apples
6 Safra Square (Jerusalem City Hall complex)
623-0280
Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin – OU
RYU (Meat)
25 Emek Refaim (German Colony)
561-1344
Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin
Sheyan (Meat)
8 Ramban Street (Windmill)
561-2007
Badatz Agudat Yisrael mehadrin
Village Green (Vegetarian)
33 Jaffe Street (downtown)
625-3065
Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin - Belze Machzikei Hadas Mehadrin
Response to Criticism of OU in Israel
September 04, 2009
Recently, an investigative journalist posted an article that appeared on a number of blogs, which was critical of OU supervision of hotels and restaurants in Israel. Within a few days, the OU arranged for me to visit Israel and determine if the criticism was valid.
I spent one week in Israel and visited these OU locations multiple times, both with the OU representative responsible for oversight, and on my own, at different times of day and night. The conclusions of my investigations are as follows:
While the investigator accurately reported what he saw and heard, the report did not capture the entire picture, as there were other pieces of relevant information that the journalist did not reflect in his article, perhaps because of a lack of awareness on his part. One of the strong criticisms of the article was that the OU rubber stamps the existing rabbanut supervision at these locations with no oversight of its own. This is not the case.
The Jerusalem Plaza is supervised by Rabbi Eliezer Mendelson, who works on behalf of the OU, and has made various enhancements to the supervision in the past year. The article quoted a source who said that Rabbi Mendelson “is not really in charge of kashrut.” This is not true, as Rabbi Mendelson was appointed by the owner to be the Rav of the hotel, and in conjunction with this he serves as the OU representative.
The report notes that Rabbi Turetzky is the supervisor at Jerusalem Gate Hotel on behalf of the Jerusalem Rabbinate, but that there is no OU presence. It is true that Rabbi Turetzky is in the employment of the Jerusalem Rabbinate, but he is also an employee of the OU. As such, he is at the hotel in a dual capacity.
The report does not touch on the Ramada, which is under Rabbanut Mehadrin, as well as the OU. The OU has reviewed the hotel and has verified that the mashgichim are of excellent caliber and the kashrut system is well controlled.
During my visit, I met with Rabbi Shmuel Burnstein, who heads the division of supervision of the Rabbanut Mehadrin hotels. I reviewed the kashrut in all OU hotels and found it to be tightly controlled by a team of very competent mashgichim.
The OU supervises four dairy restaurants in Yerushalayim. In each of the restaurants only Jews cook in the kitchen, which obviates the concern of bishul akum. There is a very strong system of yotzei vinichnas (spot inspections) with a mashgiach coming regularly throughout the day and night. In each of these restaurants, the OU arranged for mashgichim and the OU insisted that all ingredients meet Mehadrin standards. In addition, Rabbi Turetzky spot-checks to ensure that everything is in order. The OU is comfortable with this situation.
The OU supervises three meat restaurants where the OU arranged for mashgichim to be present. The OU has a strong presence in these establishments and is not blindly rubber stamping the supervision.
The article reported on other irregularities as well. For example, the journalist waited in the morning for the mashgiach at Pappagio, a meat restaurant, for 40 minutes, but the mashgiach did not arrive. In the interim, the restaurant was in operation. I confirmed with the mashgiach that he was not present, but what was not reported was that the mashgiach was ill that morning and could not arrive because of a severe back problem. Though the mashgiach arrived late that particular day, this is not standard operating procedure at the restaurant. One cannot prevent such emergencies from occurring.
The question is how to respond when the mashgiach is late because of an emergency: Should the restaurant open or not? This depends on the individual facility, and the mashgiach felt that he had sufficient control and knowledge of the facility to not warrant shutting down the store until his arrival, particularly since the management anticipated his presence shortly and they did not know when he would arrive. The grill (where most of the cooking occurs) was not in operation before the mashgiach arrived, and only prep work was occurring in the kitchen. In addition, the chefs are Jewish and there was no concern of bishul akum. When the mashgiach did arrive, he was able to confirm that everything was in order.
The journalist reported that he visited Taiku three times and never saw the mashgiach. The arrangement in Taiku is that a shomer shabbos chef, who does all the cooking, is present at all times. In addition, a mashgiach is present at least eight hours a day during the busiest time of operation. It is common practice to rely on shomer shabbos employees (we refer to them as “working mashgichim”) in certified restaurants.
The report also claimed that dairy liquor was used in a meat establishment. I asked the journalist for the name of the liquor and he said it was Southern Comfort. To our knowledge, this is not dairy. It is true that in America the OU does not allow Southern Comfort because it lacks supervision, but in Israel it is commonly used. Nonetheless, the point of consistency is valid and we are reviewing this situation.
I met with the reporter in Israel and he expressed to me that there was a lack of transparency in the standards and procedures in Israel. This, in part, created some of the confusion. This is a valid point which we hope to correct in the future by publicizing the OU standards in food establishments in Israel.
The reporter also expressed frustration that he was not permitted entry into the kitchens without the presence of our supervisor. This creates the impression that we are seeking to hide information. I explained that this is not the case, and it is common practice to have a supervisor present during a review to ensure that misunderstandings do not occur. We are happy to escort people through the kitchen and explain the basis of our supervision.
I was glad that I came to Israel to review these establishments. It is always possible to improve and enhance supervision. In general, the kashrut of the OU restaurants and hotels in Israel was good, but I did find some areas where I felt improvement can be made. I hope to implement these changes in the near future.
Rabbi Yaakov Luban
Executive Rabbinic Coordinator
Orthodox Union Kashrut Division
Israel Alerts
Moshiko Grape Soft Drink
Barcode 7290011977795, produced under the Taaman Company name, is
marked “kosher under the Shomron Rabbinate”. This claim is fraudulent.
The product has no kashrut supervision.
Boston Avraham LTD
Located in Moshav Adirim, the company has been marketing in both
Israel and abroad, products marked under the OK kashrut supervision
and kosher for Passover. The OK reports no such client. The Nahariya
Rabbinate confirms the company enjoys regular basic kashrut
certification only
Pergo Pizza – 9 Sibin St. in Kiryat Matlin – PT Rabbinate revoked
certification.
JERUSALEM
Shulchan Yerakot Stall in the Shuk on Eitz Chaim St (Outside)
Shulchan Yerakot Farcho in N’vei Yaakov Shopping Center
Pitzuchim Mizrachi Vegetables – 160 Moshe Dayan Blvd
Pitzchei Spatz – Patt Jct.
The four above-mentioned businesses do not have Jerusalem Rabbinate
supervision but claim to be kosher and display unauthorized
certificates.
Achi Tov Restaurant – 48 HaNevi’im St.
Kubbabar Restaurant – 68 HaNevi’im St.
Mitbach Shoshana – 35 Derech Beit Lechem
The above three do not have Jerusalem Rabbinate supervision and claim
to be kosher.
Eden Pickle Products – Karen Baked Products – Pomegranate Seeds
The Givat Ada – Binyamina Rabbinate announced it has revoked the
kashrut from the Bayit Shel Eden pickle products. The local rabbinate
also sites that baked products under the name Karen with its hechsher
are fraudulent. The local rabbinate also states that Pomegranate seeds
product manufactured by the Simone family is also bearing an
unauthorized kosher claim.
Miri Pizza
Located on the main road near the Yavniel Council now has the mehadrin
supervision of the Badatz Beit Yosef. The pizza is ‘hamotzi’ and the
establishment is dairy
Alert
- Alert posted on Sun November 15th, 2009
FROM THE RCC:
New Restaurant - Mocca. The owners of Bocca Restaurant in the Valley are expanding and opening a new dairy cafe called Mocca. It will be located near Bocca and will feature an array of (mostly Yoshon) baked goods and dairy cafe style items. This cafe is set to open in the near future and will have a menu in the low to mid price range. Mocca and Bocca are located on Ventura Blvd in Encino.
Warner Center Marriott upgraded their kashrus by purchasing all new silverware dedicated for kosher. This hidur is very significant and came on the heels of a meeting with the General Manager and many senior hotel staff to discuss RCC policy and how we can best work together. The hotel reaffirmed its commitment to kosher in words and now in action.
Yoshon - We have alerted our vendors to pre-purchase their flour needs to insure that they can remain Yoshon through next Pesach. We will update the community with a final list of who will participate this year.
Article from Kosher Today - Ralph’s Grocery Brings New Meaning to “the Kosher Section” in San Diego by Ellie Appleson, Features Editor…It is a “kosher section” that even many large supermarkets that cater to kosher consumers in big cities do not offer. After three years of research and planning, Ralph’s Supermarket implemented their plans to offer kosher in a way that the Jewish community could only have dreamed of. As one of Kroger Company’s establishments, Ralph’s has been upgrading its kosher sections in many of its stores. “Our objective was to create a complete, kosher grocery within one of our supermarkets,” explains Steve Mione, Senior Director Service Deli and one of the instrumental planners of Ralph’s new venture. Complete with a kosher bakery, fresh meat cutting room, sushi, rotisserie and grill, Ralph’s did just that. In their beautifully renovated La Jolla site, Ralph’s staff put endless amounts of effort into educating themselves on the laws of kashrus and even created a kosher kitchen that Mashgiach Rabbi Zack Plotzker says “could not have been put together more effectively.” In order to ensure their kashrus was up to par for all of their clientele, Ralph’s partnered with both the Rabbinical Council of California as well as the Vaad Harrabonim of San Diego, in addition to having a mashgiach on the premises at all times.
After a great deal of effort the RCC is happy to announce that lettuce bearing the RCC logo can now be used without any sort of washing or checking. It has been found to have zero insects in the bags.
Mendel's Meat Restaurant (formerly Mendy's) located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, is no longer certified by the Vaad HaKashruth of Buffalo (BVK).
FROM THE KAJ:
Certain products from “Alei Katif” grown in California, have been found to be infested with a type of infestation that rinsing and washing the product will not help. Consequently, we advise the public to refrain from using the mentioned brand from California until further notice. P.S. “Alei Katif” products grown in E. Israel are not affected by this notice, and may be used as per the instructions on the bag.
FROM THE cRc:
Certain packages of Jewel brand Dixie Cup Ice Cream contain a cRc logo on the outer bag and a “Shield K” on the lids of the individual cups. The lids with the “Shield K” were used inadvertently. This product is indeed under the strict certification of the cRc and is dairy - cholov stam when bearing the cRc logo on the bag or the individual cups.
7-11 HAS INTRODUCED NEW Slurpee flavors: Liquid Artillery, Mango Passion Transformer, and Terminator Salvation – all are kosher
The new sparkling teas from Lipton, Blackberry and Strawberry Kiwi bearing a plain “k” on the label are recommended.
Kellogg’s Raisin Bran Crunch cereal contains o/u certified gelatin and is recommended.
Spudniks Potato Chips are no longer certified by the COR. This product should not be used even when bearing the COR on the package.
Presidents Choice Organics Bean Medley Canned Beans bears an unauthorized COR. Any bean product bearing the COR 386 is unauthorized.
FROM THE STAR-K:
Yoshon - Below are the LAST packing dates when one can assume the following items are Yoshon without any special designation: Oats - July 26, 2009. Wheat (flour) and Barley - August 7, 2009; Malt - October 15, 2009. All items after the above packing dates must bear a Yoshon marking that is backed by an approved kosher certifying agency. Please note that this year, General Mills has decided to discontinue their Yoshon program which they used in previous years. Instead, all vendors who wish to offer Yoshon using GM brand flour must purchase all of their flour prior to the above date. Our local distributor, BakeMark, has agreed to store all of the Yoshon flour needed for their Baltimore/Washington area kosher customers. Only those items that have the Yoshon term printed on the product is acceptable
The 2009-2010 Star-K Approved OTC Medicine List - now available online at our website, www.star-k.org.
On July 21, 2009 the STAR-K sent out a notice regarding OAKLEAF CATERING GROUP, dba HOFFMAN & COMPANY and LEWIS CATERERS, 5805 Oakleaf Drive, Baltimore, MD. This notice is to inform the public that in fact STAR-K is continuing its certification of OAKLEAF CATERING GROUP, dba HOFFMAN & COMPANY and LEWIS CATERERS.
Effective immediately, EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS #489, Riverdale, NY is no longer Star-K certified.
NEW FROM THE KOF-K:
Newly certified companies; 5TH AVENUE CHOCOLATEIRE, LTD LONG ISLAND 718-361-6427 ARNABAL INTL, INC. Irvine 949-861-8820
Please note that ROCKLAND BAKERY 94 DEMAREST MILL ROAD, NANUET, NY: RP BAKING LLC DBA PECHTERS AND TRI-STATE BAKING 840 Jersey Street. Harrison, NJ are no longer under KOF-K KOSHER SUPERVISION
WHITING FILLETS AND SALMON FILLETS sold under the brand name of WHOLEY FISH are no longer under KOF-K Kosher Certification.
The FIRST STREET BRAND PIES listed below were mistakenly labeled KOF-K without the status designation. The products were made on Dairy Equipment and future labeling will be corrected. 8\" LATTICE TOP CHERRY/PEACH/APPLE/MERINGUE PIE
Effective immediately the following TASTI-D-LITE STORES are no longer certified by the KOF-K. 1115 LEXINGTON AVE. NYC, NY 10021; 1654 THIRD AVE, NYC, NY 10028; 222 EAST 86 STREET, NYC, NY 10028
WOODSEY WILDLIFE OATMEAL ANIMAL COOKIES
WOODSEY WILDLIFE VANILLA ANIMAL COOKIES
were mislabeled with a plain KOF-K. The products are KOF-K DAIRY.
Corrective measures are being taken.
FROM THE O/U:
Eastsun IQF Broccoli and IQF Cauliflower: These products bear an unauthorized OU symbol and fraudulently appeared on a letter of certification.
Philly Stix Swirl Stix: Product bears a “DE” OU Pareve designation. The product is actually Pareve. The manufacturer included the “DE” OU designation because of concerns about dairy allergens which may be present in the plant. At this time, the does not have a “DE” designation.
Wise Bravos Nacho Cheese Tortilla: Product has been reformulated from non-kosher to kosher, and will now bear an OU D symbol. Product without the OU D symbol is not kosher. A limited amount of product has been released with stickers stating "NOW KOSHER OU D”
Country Road Bulgarian Sheep's Milk Cheese: This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol. Consumers spotting this product as well as any other products similar to this one are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8148.
Ein Kerem Cabernet Merlot Syrah (bar code 7290003541430): This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8148.
Naturally Delicious Café –Forest Hills, NY: The menu for Naturally Delicious Café bears an OU symbol. This establishment is not certified by the Orthodox Union. Corrective action is being taken.
William Sonoma Cocktail Combo: The OU symbol has been inadvertently placed on this product. The product is not authorized to bear the OU symbol. Corrective action is being taken.
Veronica Bianca from American Food & Beverage Inc. – East Brunswick, NJ: All products with the Brand name Veronica Bianca which bear an OU symbol are unauthorized. Consumers spotting these products are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kasheralerts@ou.org.
Herr’s Kansas City Prime Steak Flavor Potato Chips: The ingredient panel on the above mentioned product inadvertently lists beef extract. The OU-D designation on the product is valid.
FROM THE O/K:
Snapple bottles in a case of 24 are O/K certified only with the Hechscher on the bottles. Some of the bottles in the carton are not certified, despite the O/K on the outside container.
Royal Candy Company of Brooklyn, NY has been distributing tootsie roll midgies, vanilla caramels, and other soft candies with an unauthorized )K symbol. Only hard candies are certified by OK Kosher Certification. Corrective measures are being taken.
FROM THE KSA:
KSA does not certify Open Window Bakery and they were never certified by the KSA.
All ElWest products are no longer certified.
UPDATES FROM ISRAEL:
One may view the report online with accompanying photos which may be seen in the original documents posted under the translation
http://www.jerusalemkoshernews.com/2009/07/chief-rabbinate-kashrut-alert-021-2009/
Chief Rabbinate of Israel
Fraud Division
Kashrut Alert - 021
July 21, 2009
29 Tammuz 5769
Merlo Wine Alert
Ein Kerem Merlo Sira wine 2006 (barcode 7290003541430) states it is mehadrin min ha’mehadrin under the supervision of Rabbi Dov Lior Shlita and the OU USA, kosher of Passover. An inspection reveals the wine is a fraud and it does not have any kosher supervision.
Shmitah Alert
Chief Rabbinate inspectors have learned some farmers are selling goods with forged bills of lading claiming the produce is “kedushat shvi’it – Otzar beit din” while in actuality, there is no kashrut supervision at all, not on matters pertaining to tevel, orla or shmitah. This bogus forms have legitimate-looking stamps and may easily fool a non
discerning eye.
The Rabbinate points out that shmitah has all but expired on most items and therefore, buyers should be aware that laws of trumot and ma’asrot are applicable once again and one must always remain alert to the matter of orla (fruits of the first three years).
Raisin Alert
The Jerusalem Rabbinate has learned that raisins sold under the name Tali’s Raisins, from Moshav Lachish, marked as kosher mehadrin under the supervision of the Jerusalem Rabbinate are bogus. The factory states the mehadrin stamp was affixed accidentally.
Alei HaSharon Bug Free Greens
The Zichron Yaakov and Jerusalem Rabbinates report the supervision has been revoked from the Alei HaSharon Company producing bug-free greens. It appears the company fails to comply with the protocol set forth by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel for growing bug-free greens.
Cotton Candy Alert
Strawberry flavored cotton candy (barcode 7640103867013) manufactured in Indonesia is being marketed as kosher under the supervision of Rabbi Yaakov Hochberg of Canada. The Chief Rabbinate has not approved the item.
Label Clarification Alert
In reference to the Gidron Company labeling, it has been decided in cooperation with the kosher certifying agency to stop the practice of using labels that state “kosher dairy/parve”, leaving the final determining process until a carton is sealed. These cartons are distributed nationwide, including some stores that are now kosher. Some stores lack supervision and there may be no separation or proper adherence to halacha regarding the separation of parve and dairy. The company has committed to halting the current practice. New guidelines demand that each carton specify the local rabbinate giving
certification and exactly which items are dairy/parve on each item. The cartons will also continue to state under the Holon Rabbinate in accordance to law.
Rechovot Kashrut Alert
The kosher supervision was removed from the Zohara Restaurant (2 Bilu Street) by the Rechovot Rabbinate.
Netanya Kashrut Alert
Two different businesses under the same owner have been displaying bogus kashrut certificates from the Netanya Rabbinate, using a quality photocopy that is difficult to distinguish from the real thing. This refers to Bistro Bar (2 Milinski Street) and Mifgash HaPa’amonim (50 Herzl Street). The matter has been handed over to Israel Police.
Moshiko Shwarma – Ben-Yehuda Mall, Jerusalem
The store now has both Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin and OU Israel. The mashgiach timidi (there 8 hours a day, in the kitchen) is from the
Jerusalem Rabbinate. The Jerusalem Rabbinate mashgiach supervisor also visits daily. The OU mashgiach told me he relies primarily on the Jerusalem Rabbinate folks and visits from time-to-time. Meats are Jerusalem Rabbinate/ Agudat Yisrael hechsher
One may view the report online with accompanying photos which may be seen in the original documents posted under the translation
http://www.jerusalemkoshernews.com/2009/08/chief-rabbinate-kashrut-alert-022-2009/#more-873
August 5, 2009
Boris’ Bakery Nabbed…Kashrut inspectors who arrived without prior notification at Boris’ Bakery (123 Livinsky Street, Tel Aviv), found labels for other products, “Borris’ specialties” and “Tuvlia’s specialties”, both claiming kashrut supervision from the Tel Aviv-Jaffa Rabbinate. It has been learned the items do not have any kosher supervision whatsoever.
Yarok BaMidbar Mehadrin Company
According to Rabbi Shmuel Shukrin Shlita, head of the Eshkol Regional Council Rabbinate, products from the above mentioned company sold as insect-free marked with his regional council’s supervision are bogus.
Making things worse, there is a suspicion that some of the contents of the firm’s products are not even kosher. One should avoid the items
Omega 3 Food Supplement
The above mentioned food supplement manufactured by R.P. Shrar LTD, Germany, imported by Super Medic Light LTD, Haifa, does not have any kosher certification despite the label stating under the supervision of Rabbi M. Levinger, Basil, Switzerland. It was also not authorized for import by the Chief Rabbinate as stated. There are genuine fears regarding the source of the fish oil used in the product.
Shwarma Alert
Acting on a complaint, it was learned that a new branch of Beit HaShwarma was opened at 62 Herzl Street in Lod [in the former Bank Hapoalim]. The store advertises kosher under the local rabbinate, with two mashgichim. In actuality, the store has no supervision at all.
Kashrut Removed from Catering Firm
The Gilboa Region Rabbinate has revoked its kashrut certification from the caterer operating under the name Timun Ta’am Chavaya Pinuk, under the management of Yaron Cohen, Kibbutz Tel Yosef. The rabbinate no longer accepts responsibility for the firm’s kashrut and therefore, it is prohibited for use to conduct weddings.
Olive Oil Alert
Health inspectors who conducted standard tests on bottles of olive oil learned some are not what they claim to be, containing other additives in addition to the claimed 100% olive oil.
This includes:
100% Katit Olive Oil (4 liter containers), manufacture date 8/2008,
Jerusalem
100% Katit Olive Oil (630cc), manufacture date 9/2008, Jerusalem
100% Katit Olive Oil (4 liter containers), distributed by TAAM
Zayit LTD, manufacture date 8/2009.
They contain other oils in addition to olive oil. Buyer beware.
Fish Alert
Importer Pe’er Meats & Fowl LTD has imported Zahavon (Coalfish /Saithe) fish covered in ice (80% fish) manufactured in China. It is labeled kosher parve, under the supervision of Rabbi Netanel Meudad, Hong Kong and with import permission from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. The fish has no kashrut supervision.
Bogus Mehadrin Kashrut Alert
Ta’am V’Reiach Restaurant located at the entrance of Moshav Ein Yaakov displays a Mehadrin kashrut certificate from the Mor Levana kashrut agency, one that is not authorized or recognized by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel.
Haifa Rabbinate Revokes Restaurant’s Kashrut
The kashrut of Mizrachit HaK’shera Restaurant, the City Center Building, first floor, 6 Ben-Gurion Blvd was revoked due to serious kashrut violations. In one serious incident, in which a mashgiach was assaulted, police assistance was required.
Chief Rabbinate National Kashrut Revokes Certification
The Gedbon Food and Drinks Distributor LTD located in Kfar Mazara lost its kosher certification and their products should not be used.
Alei HaSharon Gets a Reprieve
The shrubbery from Alei HaSharon may once again be used after proper arrangements for kosher certification were made.
Special reminder during vacation time:
1. If you are traveling, a photocopy of a kashrut certificate is invalid.
2. The store name on the sign must match the name on kashrut certificate.
3. The addresses must match
4. The certificate must be current, not expired
5. The local rabbinate certifying agency must be the rabbinate of that city, not from another city.
6. At times, stores without a kashrut certification will display certificates pertaining to sealed items they sell, but that does not cover the store.
7. One is advised to make phone contact with the mashgiach whose name and number appear on the certificate to validate legitimacy.
His document presents the actual facts from the Hebrew original but is
not a literal translation.
Rabbi Yaakov Sabag
Chief of Kashrut Division
Rabbi Rafi Yochai
Chief of National Kashrut Fraud Prevention
August Alerts
- Alert posted on Tue August 4th, 2009
• SPUDNIKS POTATO CHIPS are no longer under COR certification. This product should not be used even when bearing the COR symbol.
• The “D” dairy designation was inadvertently omitted from several packages of Fannie May Chocolates. All Fannie May chocolates bearing the cRc logo are dairy, Cholov Stam. Corrective measures are being taken.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette produced by Ken’s Foods Inc. - Marlborough, MA, bears an unauthorized OU symbol and is not certified as kosher by the Orthodox Union. Corrective action is being taken.
• Dribrite B F, produced by Caravan Ingredients Inc. – Lenexa, KS 66215, contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised,
• Naturally Delicious Café, Forest Hills, NY. The menu for Naturally Delicious Café bears an OU symbol. This establishment is not certified by the Orthodox Union. Corrective action is being taken.
• William Sonoma Cocktail Combo: The OU symbol has been inadvertently placed on this product. The product is not authorized to bear the OU symbol. Corrective action is being taken.
• Veronica Bianca by American Food & Beverage Inc., East Brunswick, NJ. All products with the Brand name Veronica Bianca which bear an OU symbol are unauthorized. Consumers spotting these products are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org.
• Ken’s Steakhouse Balsamic Vinaigrette by Ken’s Foods Inc. - Marlborough, MA. This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol and is not certified as kosher by the Orthodox Union. Corrective action is being taken.
• Herr’s Kansas City Prime Steak Flavor Potato Chips. The ingredient panel on the above mentioned product inadvertently lists beef extract. The OU-D designation on the product is valid. Future packaging will be revised.
• Rock N Roll Gourmet Hippie Chips – Lime Is On My Side Cracked Pepper. This product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised.
• In regard to the following flavors of Pringles: BBQ flavored Pringles, Honey Mustard flavored Pringles, Original Flavor Pringles, Reduced Fat Original Flavor - The above products that feature Hebrew text suggests the presence of Dairy ingredients, the product is certified OU pareve and is correctly marked with the OU symbol.
• Williams-Sonoma Chipotle Almonds and Sweet Spiced Pecans-- The above mentioned products contain dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be re
• Food Lion Salsa Con Queso. This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol and corrective action is being taken. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org.
• Foodtown Rice Cakes Caramel Made with Whole Grain. This product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised.
From the Kof –K:
• WHITING FILLETS AND SALMON FILLETS sold under the brand name of WHOLEY FISH are no longer under KOF-K Kosher Certification.
• The FIRST STREET BRAND PIES listed below were mistakenly labeled KOF-K without the status designation. The products were made on Dairy Equipment and future labeling. will be corrected. 8\" Lattice Top Cherry Pie, 8\" Lattice Top Peach Pie, 8\" Lattice Top Apple Pie, 8\" Lemon Meringue Pie
• Effective immediately the following TASTI-D-LITE STORES are no longer certified by the KOF-K. 1115 LEXINGTON AVE. NYC, NY 10021 - 1654 THIRD AVE, NYC, NY 10028 - 222 EAST 86 STREET, NYC, NY
• BREAKING NEWS!! The Marriott Hotels in Hong Kong will be offering full Kosher catering and Bet Knesset arrangements during the upcoming Jewelery and Diamond Shows.
From the STAR –K:
• Effective July 31, 2009, OAKLEAF CATERING GROUP (dba Hoffman & Company and Lewis Caterers), 5805 Oakleaf Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215, will no longer be Star-K certified.
FROM THE CHIEF RABBINATE OF ISRAEL, Fraud Division, Kashrut Alert - 020, July 15, 2009, 23 Tammuz 5769
• Muscat Lunch Bar Restaurant: During an inspection of the Muscat Lunch Bar Restaurant, 24 Ta’as Street, Kfar Saba, unidentified lamb fat was discovered. After questioning those in charge, inspectors learned the lamb fat was not kosher. As a result, the eatery’s kashrut certification was immediately revoked.
• XL Energy Drink (6 pack): The energy drink six pack (barcode 5906485301067), imported by the Kashmash LTD Company, 03-561-9778, displays kashrut certifications from three kashrut organizations; OK Lab, Rav Schlesinger from Strasburg and Igud HaRabbonim (KIR) Rav Yaakov Westheim. The individual cans of the beverage do not exhibit any kashrut certification. These can are bogus and should not be used. The beverage is imported legally by the SIDS Company with an OK supervision. One must be vigilant when purchasing to ensure one buys the legitimate kosher product and not the imposter. The Rabbinate Fraud Division is taking action against the Kashmash LTD Company.
• Nes L’café – Home Baked Goods: An inspection of Gush Dan area grocery stores turned up the product labeled “Nes L’café – Home Baked Goods” (barcode 7290001459096), with the label stating under the supervision of the Yavne Rabbinate and Mehadrin Chug Chatam Sofer Bnei Brak. The certification claims are bogus.
• Tavlinim Yeruchim: An inspection conducted by Chief Rabbinate officials of the herbs and vegetables labeled as ‘insect-free’ ‘shomer shabbos factory’ under the label Tavlinim Yeruchim (phone 050-835-6863) does not have any supervision from the Chief Rabbinate and it should not be used.
• Waldorf Health Bars: Waldorf health bars [imported by City Sport Kfar Saba 03-766-3657) is marketed under a number of different flavors and varieties, including a 29 gram strawberry yogurt protein bar (barcode 749826000046), a 31 gram chocolate peanut butter bar (49826125602), Matricks, peanut base with chocolate flakes and caramel (barcode 786560149501, a chocolate flavored bar (barcode 749826125688). The health bars, containing “vitamins and minerals” exhibit a Triangle K supervision fro those who eat “Akum milk powder and gelatin”. It has been learned the factory does not have any supervision and the bars may contain non-kosher ingredients such as collagen, derived from a meat source. The product is seen primarily in health food stores.
• Absrect Catering – Haifa: The Haifa Rabbinate reports a firm called Absrect Catering (052-640-2264) is advertising itself as kosher under the supervision of the Haifa Rabbinate. The firm exhibits a photocopied kosher certificate at times. In actuality, it does not have any kashrut supervision from the Haifa Rabbinate and one may not hold a wedding in the caterer’s facility.
• Rosh HaNikra Restaurant – Matte Asher Rabbinate: The restaurant, also advertising itself as Mevashelet Rosh HaNikra, is not under the rabbinate’s supervision as of January 2009.
• Chaim Dahan Butcher Shop – 11 Jabotinsky Street – Ramle (08-924-0896) The store does not have kosher supervision and the kashrut certificate stating it enjoys the supervision of the Ramle Rabbinate is fraudulent
• Pitted Green Olives from Pri Golan: Pitted green olives (barcode 7290002854) is being marketed under the mehadrin supervision of Chug Chatam Sofer Petach Tikvah and the Chief Rabbinate’s National supervision, also labeled “heter mechirah –kosher for Passover” is actually under the Chief Rabbinate National supervision, not mehadrin, and heter mechira as indicated.
• Bakala (Cod) Fish Alert: Young Bakala Fish sold whole without heads are extremely insect/bug infested. Consumers are urged to only purchase fish with a reliable kashrut hechsher.
• Danny Daniel Meats are Approved Again – 7 Chartzit St., Kfar Saba, (09-748-8380): The Chief Rabbinate reports Danny Daniel meat products are once again approved, adding consumers and retailers should only buy products bearing kashrut certification and accompanied by appropriate shipping documentation.
• Candy Alert – Rambam Hechsher, France: Candies distributed by Sijlin LTD, (19 HaMerkava Street, Holon (industrial area), are marked under the supervision of Chug Rambam, France, is being imported without authorization from the Chief Rabbinate and therefore, the product should not be used.
• HaMutag Potato Burekas Bis – HaMutag Potato Burekas Bis, found in Rami Levy HaShikma supermarkets, does not make any mention of being dairy on the front, only on the rear of the product. In addition, they are the standard rectangular shape, associated with the parve burekas. The product does not bear a local rabbinate supervision, but does state Yoreh Deah – Rav Machpud. Due to the fact the product does not conform with standard kashrut regarding the shape and it being dairy, the factory has committed to immediately halt the current production line and make necessary adjustments to avoid misleading consumers.
FROM THE OU
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
• Food Lion Salsa Con Queso
Salsa Con Queso UPC 35826 04798
This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol and corrective action is being taken. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@aol.org.
• Foodtown Rice Cakes- Caramel Made with Whole Grain. This product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised
• Veronica Bianca Danish Style Butter Cookies This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@aol.org.
• Shop Rite Instant Hot Cocoa Mix - Milk Chocolate. A limited amount of this OU-D certified product was inadvertently sold with packets containing non-kosher marshmallows. Affected product is limited to those products bearing the date code Oct. 30 10. Consumers should contact their Rabbi to determine the status of utensils that have come in contact with the above product.
• Eating Right Jalapeno Jack Flavored Seven Grain Chips. This product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised.
COR Slurpees
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
The Slurpee brands and flavours indicated below are certified kosher in Canada. Consumers should be aware that the machines and facilities where the Slurpees are sold do not have kosher certification unless otherwise indicated.
ManufacturerBrandProductCertifier
Pepsi7 Up7 UpCOR
LiptonBrisk Lemon Ice TeaCOR
LiptonBrisk LemonadeCOR
Mountain DewMountain DewCOR
MugRoot BeerCOR
PepsiPepsiCOR
Coca ColaBarq'sCream SodaMK
Barq'sRoot BeerMK
CokeCoca-ColaMK
FantaBananaMK
FantaBlackberry LemonadMK
FantaBlue RaspberryMK
FantaKiwi StrawberryMK
FantaLimeMK
FantaMango MelonMK
FantaOrange LimeMK
FantaSensation BerryMK
FantaSour AppleMK
FantaSuper Sour CherryMK
FantaWatermelonMK
FantaYumberry BlackcurrantMK
Minute MaidOrange SodaMK
PoweradeIce Berry BlitzMK
SpriteSpriteMK
Cadbury SchweppesCrushOrangeCRC
CrushStrawberry LimeadeCRC
SlurpachinoCafe au Lait (pareve)CRC
SchweppesGinger AleCRC
Israel
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
Israel updates:
OU-Israel only uses chalav yisrael, which is significant since in N. America, this is not the case. Regarding shmitah, only l’chumra. Regarding bishul yisrael for Sephardim, in adherence to the Beit Yosef’s stringent opinion, not guaranteed and you must ask each
caterer. OU Israel is not strict regarding Bishul Yisrael.
Most places I have seen do not satisfy the dictates of the Beit Yosef for Sephardim. I will add that I found this to be the case regarding Jerusalem Rabbanut Mehadrin eateries in many cases as well.
****
Taiku Restaurant - OU Supervision
31 Emek Refaim Street (German Colony)
02-566-5262
Israel Alerts:
Chief Rabbinate of Israel
Fraud Division
Kashrut Alert - 019
June 18, 2009
26 Sivan 5769
Inspectors Attacked During Inspection of a Butcher Shop
A recent inspection of Shlomo and Tzuri Levy Butcher, located in Moshav Peduim, revealed the store was displaying a kashrut certificate from Yuval Cohen of Netivot, who is not authorized to give kashrut supervision as per the Kashrut Law of 1983. It should be pointed out that Cohen’s supervision only came about after the Merchavim Rabbanut
removed its kashrut from the butcher shop for gross kashrut violations. The inspectors were attacked, beaten over their entire bodies, clothing torn, and they sustained injuries from the unjustifiable and unprovoked attack. One of the inspectors was transported from the scene in an ambulance. The suspects were eventually removed in handcuffs. Rabbinate Fraud Division officials warn consumers not to use any products from the butcher shop or rely on the supervision of Yuval Cohen.
Treif – Non Kosher Meat
A surprise inspection of the Mena Mena Restaurant in the M-HaDerech Mall near Bet Herut on the Coastal Road inspectors found swarma, turkey meat purchased in Um el-Fahm. The store however exhibited a photocopied kashrut certificate from Rav Yuruslavsky from Kiryat Malachi. Legal action is being taken against the owners of the
establishment.
Ohf HaNegev – Chickens
It is being reported that some of the chickens slaughtered in the Ohf HaNegev slaughter house in southern Israel are being labeled “Under the Supervision of the Vaad Rabbanei Chabad – Rabbi Hillel Posner”. Rav Posner does not give any supervision in Israel and the labels are fraudulent. It is also feared that the slaughter house is also illegally affixing labels that state “Vaad Rabbanei Crown Heights”.
Yariv Hall
As per a growing number of inquiries, the Chief Rabbinate announced the catering hall know as Yariv Iru’im located at 50 Yogev Boulevard in Moshav Olash does not have kashrut supervision from the Rabbinate and therefore, the hall is not to be used as is the case with its catering equipment.
Happy Ness – Rimonim Catering
The Rishon L’Tzion Rabbinate reports the company known as Happy-Ness or Rimonim Catering, operated by a woman named Kathie, is displaying a forged Rishon L’Tzion Local Rabbinate kashrut certificate issued to Kathie Chef Catering. The businesses operated by this woman have never received kosher certification from the Rishon L’Tzion or Petach Tikvah Rabbinate.
Multiflex
A product being sold in Israel, labeled in English Multiflex Protector is marked as under the supervision of Rabbi Hochfeld, Germany, with authorization from the Chief Rabbi Import Division. The claim is fraudulent and the product should not be used.
Alei HaSharon – Sharon Greens
The greens being marketed as ‘bug-free’ “Gush Katif” brand under the label Alei HaSharon is actually quite infested and should not be used. The same holds true for the greens with the label “Yivulei HaNegev” from Moshav Shuva.
Jerusalem Organic Bakery Mehadrin
Breads being sold in northern Israel under the label Jerusalem Organic Bakery Mehadrin have the unauthorized supervision from the Mor Levona agency. The company does not have any supervision from the rabbinate or any known accepted kashrut agency.
Following is a list of businesses that are making fraudulent kashrut claims or have had their supervision revoked.
Sent by
Rabbi Yaakov Sabag
Chief of Kashrut Division
Rabbi Rafi Yochai
Chief of National Kashrut Fraud Prevention
AFULA
1. Tel Megiddo Restaurant has lost its supervision.
2. Spoons Café – 3 HaNasi Street – Kashrut revoked but it continues to
advertise as kosher.
KIRYAT MALACHI –
Birchat Yosef Bakery in the Be’er Tuvia Industrial Park – kashrut revoked due to non-compliance.
JERUSALEM
1. Biankini Restaurant – Kikar Denia – has an unauthorized Nezer HaHidur Kashrut but does not have a Rabbanut certification.
2. Asiatic Bar – 103 Herzl – Kikar Denia – has an unauthorized Nezer HaHidur Kashrut but does not have a Rabbanut certification.
PETACH TIKVAH
1. Terminal Restaurant – 15 Ben-Tzion Gliss Street – kashrut revoked
2. Sima’s Shwarma – 74 Orlev Street – kashrut revoked.
TEL AVIV
1. Sbarro Restaurant – New Bus Station, 5th floor – kashrut revoked but refuses to turn over the certificate.
2. Grill Bar – 47 Yehuda Halevy Street – kashrut revoked but refuses to turn over certificate.
3. Chantalo Restaurant – 58 Yehuda HaMaccabi Street – The store sign says
kosher but there is no supervision from the Rabbinate.
4. Gerba Restaurant – 330 Dizengoff Street - kashrut revoked but refuses to turn over certificate.
5. Yafeh Te’amim Restaurant – 6 Antiochus Street – Advertises as ‘glatt kosher’ with no Rabbinate supervision.
6. Shwarma - Corner of Livinsky Street and 13 Merchavia Street - Advertises as mehadrin without Rabbinate superivison.
7. Metamei Sharazad Restaurant – Dizengoff Center –displays a photocopy of a kashrut certificate. Does not have Rabbanut superivison.
8. AM PM Supermarket – Outside says Kol bo Sholom – 9 Ahad HaAm Street-
the bakery in the premises advertises as kosher but the certificate is outdated and the store refuses to return it.
See the original Hebrew bulletin with photos on the JKN Website –
http://jerusalemkoshernews.com
ADDITIONAL ITEMS FROM ISRAEL
Nina’s Restaurant in the Paran Shopping Center in Ramat Eshkol, Jerusalem, is now under the supervision of Rav Rubin Shlita.
Nina’s Bagel Dairy Restaurant
Paran Street
Ramat Eshkol Shopping Center
Hess Restaurant in downtown Jerusalem is now under the supervision of the Jerusalem Religious Council Mehadrin.
Hess Restaurant
9 Heleini HaMalka Street
02-625-5515
Kohinoor Restaurant in Jerusalem will no longer be glatt mehadrin as of July 1st according to the hotel’s rav and chief mashgiach, Rav Yosef Fink. He explained the restaurant will still enjoy his supervision and the hotel’s standard, but it will no longer be bishul yisrael for Sephardim and a mashgiach will not remain in the restaurant at all times, presenting a problem regarding the pouring of wine.
The meats and poultry will also no longer be Agudat Yisrael. Rabbi Fink point out the decision is the restaurant’s, apparently based on financial considerations.
Kohinoor
Crowne Plaza Hotel
02-658-8867
(http://www.jerusalemkoshernews.com/2009/06/crowne-plaza-jerusalem/)
Shatnez
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
Shatnez in a “Baby A” Vest
Shatnez was discovered in a “Baby A” children’s vest
currently sold in Jewish stores. The content label lists:
Main Body:
100% Cotton
Trimmings:
51% Linen
45% Cotton
4% Polyester
A wool yarn was used in the shoulder seam (see pictures).
Found by: R’ Yoel Schockett (Lakewood)
Edited by: R’ Yosef Stolz (Los Angeles, Ca)
If you have any questions about the information provided in this series please contact:
Lakewood Shatnez Laboratory • 661 7th Street • Lakewood, NJ • 08701 • (732) 364-7056
Please be aware that there is a clothing brand called A. Prodigee that has Hashem's name spelled out in Hebrew Letters on its clothing. L'Chatchila, it must be treated with the halachos of shaimos which include not being taken into unclean areas. The clothing line can be found at many brand name retail stores
CRC
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
Recent packages of Jewel Brand Lemonade were inadvertently printed without the cRc on the label. This product continues to be under the strict supervision of the cRc as kosher and pareve. Future labels will be corrected to include the cRc logo.
Cape Blue
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
Cape Blue Wine - The Cape Town Kashrut Department advises that Cape Blue wine bears an unauthorized Beth Din logo. This wine is not kosher
FROM THE OK
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
• Macayo Green Chile Enchilada Sauce contains non-kosher ingredients. Product is being recalled and labels ae being corrected. If you see this product in the market, please call the OK office at 718-756-7500.
• A limited quantity of Market Pantry Chocolate Chip Chewy Granola Bars (18 ct) sold in Target stores with UPC Code 85239 20124 and “Best By” date of 18Jan2010 were mispackaged. Retail boxes are labeled with the OKD symbol, and may contain Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars (which are OK D-certified) and possibly S’more bars (which are NOT KOSHER). . If you see this product with “Best By” date of 18Jan2010 in the market, please call the OK office at 718-756-7500.
• Snapple Summer Peach has been inadvertently labeled OK Pareve. This product is NOT KOSHER. Labels are being corrected.
• Alimentos Del Mani SR has been distributing Dame Mani Peanut Butter bearing an unauthorized OK symbol on the label. This product is not certified by OK Kosher Certification. Corrective measures are being taken.
From the CRC
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
White Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake Mix manufactured by Xcell Intl. Corp. / Dean Jacobs, Lemont, Illinois, contains dairy ingredients, as stated in the ingredient panel. However, the “D - Dairy” designation was inadvertently omitted from the package. The product is indeed certified by the cRc as dairy, cholov stam.
From the COR
- Alert posted on Sun July 19th, 2009
• Presidents Choice Organics Bean Medley Canned 540 ml beans bears an unauthorized COR 386.
Any Bean Product bearing the COR 386 is unauthorized.
KASHRUT NOTICE
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Fruit imported from Israel (avocados, mineolas and possibly others) are now available in South Africa. These fruits are produce of the previous year (5768) which was a shmitta year, and are therefore classified as having kedushat shvi’it (sanctity of the seventh year). The following rules apply to fruits and vegetables having kedushat shvi’it:
•Fruit normally eaten by humans should not be given to animals.
•Vegetables, such as potatoes, which are normally cooked, may not be eaten raw.
•Fruits and vegetables normally eaten raw should not be cooked.
•Fruits and vegetables that are eaten both raw and cooked can be eaten either way.
•Juice may only be extracted from such fruits or vegetables where this is normally done, e.g., oranges and apples. It is not permissible to extract juice from, for example, bananas.
•Leftovers, peels and husks which are normally eaten or have remnants of food attached, must be wrapped first, and then disposed of in the normal manner.
•If a food with kedushat shvi’it is cooked with other food, all the food must be regarded as having kedushat shvi’it.
Purchasing such fruits with cash poses a halachic difficulty which is beyond the scope of this notice to elaborate on. Therefore, one may either purchase them with a cheque or credit card, or if one wishes to use cash, then other non shmitta items (not necessarily fruits) should be included in the purchase.
Dum Dum lollipops from Spangler Corporation with a "K" or OU on them are acceptable. Chewy Dum Dums from Brazil are not kosher.
LOCK & BARREL HOT DOG BUNS
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that BLOCK & BARREL HOT DOG BUNS with the OK-D symbol on the label. Distributed by Sysco Corporation is NOT certified by OK Kosher Certification. Any product found with the OK kosher symbol is unauthorized. The product is being recalled.
Tropicana Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
TROPICANA RUBY RED GRAPEFRUIT JUICE DOES NOT CONTAIN COCHINEAL OR CARMINE.
A recent article in the media stating that Tropicana Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice contains cochineal and carmine is completely untrue. This is erroneous and malicious misinformation. Cochineal and carmine are not used in any of the Tropicana pure juice products that are certified by OK Kosher. They are only used in Tropicana cocktail mixes, which are not pure juice, contain many different ingredients and are shelf stable products, not found in the refrigerator section. The cocktail mixes are not and have never been certified kosher.
PANCAKE & BAKING
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that ORGANIC GLUTEN FREE PANCAKE & BAKING MIX produced by Organic Arrowhead Mills was mislabeled as OK Dairy. The product is in fact PAREVE. Labels are being corrected.
ROYAL CANDY COMPANY
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that ROYAL CANDY COMPANY Brooklyn, NY has been distributing tootsie roll midgies, vanilla caramels, other soft candies with an unauthorized OK symbol. Only the hard candies are certified by OK Kosher Certification Corrective measures are being taken.
Raisin Advisory
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
In response to the recent report and concern of infestation in some packaged raisins, the OK has carefully investigated the matter and after extensive testing and in consultation with our Rabbonim the OK continues to maintain that raisins, when stored under proper conditions (cool dry and clean environments) do not require checking for bugs. Please note that certain food items including but not limited to dried fruit, nuts, flour, spices, seeds, etc, when packed and/or stored in a warm or moist and unclean environments, often leads to insect infestation. These items should be avoided unless thoroughly checked.
ACTUMUS
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that DYNAMIC HEALTH LABORAORIES Brooklyn, NY 11201 is distributing ACTUMUS Black Cherry Concentrate with an unauthorized OK symbol. The product is not certified by OK Kosher Certification. Corrective measures are being taken.
If you see this product on the market, please call us at 718-756-7500.
NUTRALIFE
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that NUTRALIFE products made by SAO CORP. 90-15 43rd Avenue Elmhurst, NY 11373 are no longer certified by OK Kosher Certification. Any product with an expiration date later than 3 / 15 / 10 was not produced under OK supervision.
Additionally, Nutralife Honey Cashews were incorrectly labeled OK Parve, and actually contain a dairy ingredient.
Health is Wealth
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that HEALTH IS WEALTH products sold by HEALTH IS WEALTH, INC. 217 Prosser Ave. Williamstown, NJ 08094 are no longer certified by OK Kosher Certification. Health is Wealth Moon Egg Roll (Veggie Dumpling) has been incorrectly labeled with the OK symbol. Corrective measures are being taken. If you see this product on the market, please call us at 718-756-7500.
BIOITALIA PESTO SAUCE
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that BIOITALIA PESTO SAUCE FOR PASTA has been distributed with an unauthorized OK symbol. This product is not certified by OK Kosher Certification and
is NOT Kosher. Corrective measures are being taken.
Arrowhead Mills
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Please be advised that Arrowhead Mills Organic Stone Ground Whole Wheat Flour in 2 lb. bags lot code 06OCT09 produced by ARROWHEAD MILLS, INC. has been found to contain an undeclared dairy allergen. The product has been recalled. Individual packages of the product with a Best By date of 06OCT09A1 and a time stamp between 8:12 am to 10:12 am should be considered as dairy (and should therefore not be used to bake bread or in pareve dishes). Consumers with questions or concerns about the recall may call Arrowhead Mills at 1-800-749-0730.
KASHRUT ALERTS
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
PETACH TIKVAH: HaKohanim Shwarma – 22 Histadrut Street, advertises itself as glatt kosher under Petach Tikvah Rabbinate. The store has no
supervision whatsoever.
HERZLIYA: Sim Sim Thai Box Restaurant, 56 Ben-Gurion Street – the local Rabbinate has revoked its supervision as of Feb 1, 2009.
UPPER NAZARETH: Lo Katchina Pizza on Shoshanim Street has lost its supervision.
Garin Tavlin Nuts, also on Shoshanim Street, lost its supervision.
NAHARIYA: The Park Plaza and Sole Marine Hotels no longer have a local rabbinate supervision.
CHIEF RABBINATE KASHRUT: Beit HaKliya Zahti is not under the rabbinate nationwide supervision.
RISHON L’TZION: HaKol D’vash at 8 Rothschild Street. It advertises itself as kosher on its label but does not have any legal supervision.
Shvil HaDagin at 4 Rothschild Street. It advertises itself as kosher on its label but does not have any legal supervision.
YAHUD: 11 Sa’adya Chatucha Street – its packaging states kosher but it does not have any supervision from the local rabbinate.
TEL AVIV: Tike Tezi, 15 Aliya Street (at the corner of 54 Luwinsky) advertises itself as kosher. It does not have supervision from the rabbinate but displays other certificates.
In the Maariv Building at 53 Menachem Begin Street: The “Catering” operation advertises as kosher but lacks any supervision from the
Rabbinate.
The Pargiot Metamei HaGrill Restaurant, 23 Carlebach Street. The Tel Aviv Rabbinate revoked its supervision.
Bar Kokis, 31 Sheirit Yisrael Street, The Tel Aviv Rabbinate revoked its supervision.
Ta’ami Restaurant, HaSharon Street, an adjoining door, without any marking, has baked good under the label Gidron, displaying a photocopy of the Petach Tikvah Rabbinate when in actuality, it does not have any supervision.
GAN RAVEH:
The Mesech Helman Company – Rabbi Tzuri Ne’eman Shlita wishes to inform consumers that he gives the supervision along with the Brener
Regional Rabbinate.
The original PDF Hebrew file may be found on the Jerusalem Kosher News group website in the “File” section at http://tinyurl.com/akobet
Rabbi Yaakov Sabag
Chief of Kashrut Division
Rabbi Rafi Yochai
Chief of National Kashrut Fraud Prevention
the list of ‘unauthorized’ agencies in Israel includes but is not
limited to:
1. Nachlat Yitzchak
2. Keter Kashrut
3. Keter Mehadrin
4. Hidur Mehadrin
5. Mor Levona
6. Ichud Yisrael
7. Mishmar HaKodesh
8. Nezer Hidur
9. Rav Yaakov Landau (Beersheva)
To see most of the actual teudot, visit the website at http://tinyurl.com/crt2rb
the following restaurants in Jerusalem are under OU
supervision.
DAIRY
1. Velka – Even Shaprut Street in Shaare Chessed
2. Kad V’chomer – Kikar Safra
3. Agas V’tapuach – Kikar Safra
4. Pitu’im – 5 Rachel Imeinu Street in Katamon
MEAT
1. Red Heifer – King George Street
2. Moshiko Shwarma – Ben-Yehuda Pedestrian Mall
There are also OU caterers and hotels in the capital. In addition, some packaged baked goods from Ne’eman Bakery’s main plant in Talpiot are OU certified, as are many items from Angel Bakery’s main plant in the Givat Shaul area of the city.
The eateries mentioned also have other supervision in addition to the OU, such as Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin in some cases.
Moshiko Shwarma at 5 Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem is now certified by Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin and OU Israel
The Chef, a new meat restaurant located at 9 HaDfus Street in Givat Shaul area of Jerusalem has Jerusalem Rabbinate Mehadrin supervision
An item, such as Ben & Jerry Ice Cream in Israel may exhibit an OU”D” or OU “Israel”. There is a reason for the difference. The ice cream marked OU “Israel” is chalav yisrael while the OU “D” is not on the same standard. Ben & Jerry Israel is also under the supervision of Belz Machzikei Hadas mehadrin
PURIM HAMENTASHEN ALERT (OZNEI HAMAN)
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
With Adar rapidly approaching, the Purim hamentashen (oznei Haman) cakes will soon be seen in the marketplace. Purchasers must be certain to only buy products in sealed boxes with recognized known local rabbinate supervisions. Boxes with new or unknown supervisions should
not be purchased, as is the case with unmarked bulk shipments. A warning is also issued for hamentashen selling at too low a price,
which may signal a non-kosher item, non-Jewish baking, a dairy product, unsifted flour, dough used without separating challah, or non- kosher fillings. To avoid such obstacles, a valid legitimate bill of
lading and appropriate kashrut certification must accompany every shipment.
PRODUCE REGULATIONS
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
The Chief Rabbinate informs chain stores to only accept delivery of produce from recognized distributers and factories, presenting the
appropriate bills of lading with accompanying letter of kosher certification. There are now strawberries and other products coming straight from growers, bypassing the system, eliminating the ability
to verify the integrity of their kashrut.
NATURAL SOURCE PILLS
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Natural Source 500mg vitamin C tablets bearing a BCK hecher (Rabbi Eli Landau) are fraudulently marked and do not have his supervision, nor
does the product have the approval of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. The product produced by Vita Health Canada contains non kosher ingredients. Anyone finding the product on store shelves is asked to contact BCK at 604-731-1803 or email info@bckosher.org.
CHEESE WARNING
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Gold Frost Ltd from Yavne – Bulgarian cheese in olive oil and spices – product code 7290011615406, under the name “Kolios” and with a triangle K supervision (Rabbi Aryeh Ralbag) with the approval of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. It appears the containers of cheese lack the proper markings of the mashgiach and therefore, there are fears
the cheese is not kosher and should not be used. Rav Ralbag adds he does not undertake any responsibility for the packages that do not
have his stamp of kashrut approval.
Erroneous LABELING ON TOMATO PRODUCTS
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Pri Nir Company – Lower Galil – tomato products with a regular hechsher from shmitah year were erroneously labeled as mehadrin with a Rabbinate supervision in addition to Badatz Agudat Yisrael. It has been decided that all tomato products from the factory from here on are only regular and not mehadrin supervision. Restaurants and
caterers are requested not to use any of the company’s products marked with a mehadrin label.
FruitWorks
- Alert posted on Thu March 12th, 2009
Effective immediately, FruitWorks located at 1496 Reisterstown Road, Baltimore, MD 21208, is no longer Star-K or Star-D certified.
Star-K Certification
410-484-4110
www.star-k.org
Shatnez
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
The following brands typically contain Shatnez:
Armani-Italy Barneys New York-Italy
Brioni- Italy Brooks Brothers- U.S.A.
Burberry -U.S.A. Calvin Klien Collection-Italy
Canali-Italy Cantarelli-Italy
Cerruli 1881-Italy Citterio
Cornelliani-Italy Di Pal Zileri-Italy
Donna Karan Dunhill
Ermenegildo Zegna Faconnable-Italy
Gian Luca-Italy Gianni Versace –Italy
Giorgio Armani- Italy Hathaway-Italy
Hickey-Freeman- U.S.A Hugo Boss
Kiton-Italy Mani-Mexico
Marcello Torontino-Italy Moschino
Neiman Marcus Oxford Clothiers- U.S.A
Pal Zileri-Italy Piattelli-Italy
Polo by Ralph Lauren-Italy Prada-Italy
Redaelli-Italy Saks Fifth Avenue-China
Ted Baker Endurance-Turkey Ted Baker-Morocco
Trend Corneliani-Italy Trussini-Italy
Valentino-Italy Venturini-Turkey
Versace Classic-Croatia Versace Collection-Croatia
New Products
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
From the OU
chai meei:
acerola clear juice, ou
acerola juice puree, ou
avacado juice puree,ou
banaba clear juice concentrate, ou
carrot individually quickly freeze, ou
diced aloe vera in syrup, ou
dragon fruit juice puree, ou
green pumpkin juice concentrate, ou
kalamasi juice puree, ou
mango juice puree, ou
papaya juice concentrate, ou
pineapple juice concentrate, ou
pomelo fruit individually quickly freeze , ou
purple yam individually quickly freeze, ou
soursop juice puree, ou
tangerine individually quickly freeze, ou
watermelon juice, ou
intergaarden
capers in vinegar, ou
gherkins in vinegar, ou
silver onions in vinegar, ou
Falesco wine
marciliano (not mevushal) 2005-2006, ou
montiano (not mevushal) 2005-2006, ou
La Brioche
almond tart base, ou
chocolate croissant, ou
rasin bread, ou
rustic baugette, ou
wholegrain roll, ou
Smitty Bee Honey
Bee Pollen, OU
Honey, OU
Tarall'ora
Pasta Ai Funghi Porcini, OU
Pasta Al Limone, OU
Pasta Integrale, OU
From the Star K
Anatolia Tar.Urn.San.ve Dis Tic. A.S.
Izmir, Turkey
Fruit (Dried)
Canada Safeway Limited
Calgary, AB, Canada
Fruit (Dried), Organic Products, Snack Foods
Happy D Corp.
Oakland, CA
Beans, Fruit (Dehydrated), Fruit (Frozen), Vegetables (Dehydrated), Vegetables (Frozen)
Hengshui Shanzhi Health Drink Co., Ltd.
Hengshui, Hebei, China
Herbal Extracts
Star-D*
Mondi Enterprises, Inc.
Boylston, MA
Sauces & Dips
Ningbo Pointer Canned Foods Co., Ltd., L-32, 3302/01019
Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
Fruit (Canned)
Peppers Unlimited, Inc.
Fontana, CA
Vegetables (Canned)
Poseidon (Hong Kong) Company Limited
Central Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Fruit (Frozen), Vegetables (Frozen)
Prosperity Foods
Concord, ON
Fruit (Dried)
Sephra, LLC
San Diego, CA
Chocolate Products
Star-D*
Southwest Synthetic Pharmaceutic Pharmaceutical Corp., Ltd.
Chongqing, China
Vitamins, Supplements & Nutritionals
Superior Quality Foods, Inc.
Ontario, CA
Soup & Soup Mixes
Star-K/Star-D*
Israel
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Restaurant in Jerusalem: Village Green –
Vegetarian Food– 33 Jaffa Street – 02-625-3065
Open from 09:00 – 22:00 (Friday [winter] 09:00-14:00 & in summer until
15:00)
Under the supervision of Badatz Machzikei Hadas – Belz
www.village-green.co.il
And now some of the basics – of course, all flour is sifted, greens washed one leaf at a time prior to use, and the rabbis not only light the gas for cooking, but make certain to move all pots onto and remove from the stovetops, and open and close the oven doors. Rav Yossi explained that the food produced in The Village Green is all ‘bishul yisrael’ for both Ashkenazim and Sephardim. All dairy products are
‘chalav yisrael’ mehadrin. All fruits and vegetables are of course shmitah l’chumra,
Regarding eggs, all are checked, one at a time, and the rabbis explained he is particularly careful since they use organic eggs, which he stated have a much higher percentage of blood spots for reasons we did not review. He added that while the inspection of legumes is stringent, now one must keep an extra careful eye since the products are from the summer and the insect infestation level is
considerably higher.
FROM THE COR
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Salerno Dairy Products Deluxe Mozzarella Cheese, 2.5% M.F/ 2.2 kg,
was labeled with an unauthorized COR. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT KOSHER CERTIFIED. Corrective measures have been taken.
From the STAR-K
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Please note, it has come to our attention that GOLAN brand MOSCATTO (2008), produced under the supervision of Rabbi Shmuel Oerbach during the shmittah year under the auspices of the Otzer Bais Din, was inadvertently sold at Kosher Bite in Baltimore, MD. This wine is vested with kedushas sheviis and must be handled with special sanctity.
See http://www.star-k.org/kashrus/kk-shmitta-5768.htm for more details about the proper handling of wines possessing kedushas sheviis.
In general, when purchasing from any vendor, consumers are urged to check all Israeli wine labels to ascertain whether they were produced during a shmittah year
From the KSA
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Please be advised that the following powders sold by The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf were inadvertently missing the Dairy (חלב סתם) designation.
French Deluxe Vanilla
Special Dutch Chocolate
White Chocolate
Corrective action has been taken for future labels.
From the RCC
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Please be advised that the RCC has removed it certification from Laffa Restaurant (22435 Ventura Blvd.) in Woodland Hills, for cause.
FROM THE CRC
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Kraft Foods has introduced a new product – Crystal Light Hunger Satisfaction powdered beverage in Strawberry Banana flavor. This item is unique among Crystal Light varieties in that it contains whey, a milk protein, and is therefore dairy/cholov stam. It is certified OK-D, as stated on the package.
Please be aware that Tropicana Brand Orange Juice with Omega 3 correctly bears an OK-Fish certification and should not be used together with meat or poultry. Consumers should always check each label before purchasing.
Today’s Temptations in Chicago, Illinois, bakes several different varieties of cakes and breads, all under the certification of the cRc. Some of the cakes may list some dairy ingredients on the package such as whey or cheese. The ingredients have been reformulated and, regardless of the listed ingredients, ALL of their products are pareve, Pas Yisroel.
Although Shemittah ended at Rosh Hashanah, Shemittah produce is still being sold in local stores (for example, peppers are currently being sold at City Fresh). Shemittah vegetables will be on the market for the next few weeks, while Shemittah fruit will be available for many months, and consumers can call the cRc office for details on when specific fruits and vegetables may be assumed to no longer be from Shemittah.
Confiserie Leonidas, a fine Belgium chocolatier which also has a retail outlet on Madison Avenue in New York City, has mistakenly labeled some of their products omitting the Dairy designation. All of their kosher products are indeed cRc dairy, Cholov Stam
From the OU
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Lottie & Beck Cappuccino Drink Mixes Powdered Cappuccino Drink Mixes: Cappuccino, French Vanilla, Amaretto and Mocha flavors. These certified products contain dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel, but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised.
Treasures from the Sea: Consumers are advised that Treasures from the Sea products whose OU symbol is covered with a sticker are not certified by the Orthodox Union.
Hoody's Party Tray: Serve & Snack Party Tray. This product contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised.
Sally Sherman Seafood Salad: A limited amount of this product has been distributed while bearing an unauthorized OU symbol. The product is being withdrawn from the marketplace.
Jack Rabbit Ham flavored 16 Bean Soup: This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol and is not certified Kosher by the Orthodox Union. This product is being withdrawn from the marketplace. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org.
Boar’s Head Placards: Placards bearing an unauthorized OU symbol and the Boar’s Head logo have been distributed to delis. These placards are not an indication of the Kosher status of their corresponding products. Corrective action is being taken. Consumers spotting these placards are requested to contact the
Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org.
From the OK
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Block and Barrel Hot Dog Buns with the OK-D symbol distributed by Sysco Corporation is not certified kosher Any product found with the Ok symbol is not certified by Ok Kosher Certification.. This product is being recalled.
SWEETOGRAPHY, Inc., Brooklyn, NY, is no longer certified.
KETTLE BAGELS and BIALYS produced by BELL BAGEL (Brooklyn, NY) are no longer Pas Yisroel. They continue to be certified Kosher, Pareve by OK Kosher Certification when bearing the OK symbol on the packaging.
DAVID BAKERY/ ROYAL BAKERY, Richmond Hill, NY is NO LONGER CERTIFIED BY ok Kosher Certification. Any product found with the OK kosher symbol is unauthorized.
From the COR
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
The following products were inadvertently labelled with a COR 595.
These products are not kosher certified:
Quaker Bite Size Crispy Minis
BBQ Flavour
Pack Size: 120g (6x20g packs)
UPC: 0 55577 10931 1
Quaker Bite Size Crispy Minis
Cheddar Flavour
Pack Size: 120g (6x20g packs)
UPC: 0 55577 10930 4
Italian Home Bakery Cheese Topped Buns are no longer under COR supervision.
Presidents Choice Grape Juice 1.89 litre carton with date code 09JA03 bears an unauthorized COR 624. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT KOSHER. All other date codes are acceptable.
From the OU
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Jelly Belly Swedish Fish candy is not o/u certified even when bearing the o/u on the label. Jelly Belly Classis Candies assortment is dairy.
Kellogg’s Rice Krispies is Pareve even if labeled Kd in error.
Apple & Eve White Grape Juice (drink box) UPC 763018400. This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol and is not certified Kosher by the Orthodox Union. Product is being withdrawn from the marketplace. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org.
Black Bear of the Black Forest Hoagie Dressing. This product bears an unauthorized OU symbol and is not certified Kosher by the Orthodox Union. The product is being withdrawn from the marketplace. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at 212-613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.orgkashalerts@ou.org
New Products from the OU:
Amy's Gourmet Apples
Pecan Turtle Apple Dark OU-D
Pecan Turtle Apple Milk OU-D
Ultimate Apple OU-D
Honeydrop
Apples And Honey-Honey Infused Beverage OU
Blood Oranges and Honey-Honey Infused Beverage OU
Blueberries And Honey-Honey Infused Beverage OU
Chamomile Tea And Honey-Honey Infused Beverage OU
Sol de Chile
Sol De Chile – Cabernet Sauvignon 2008-11-13 OU-P
When bearing the OU holographic sticker
Coast Beverage Group/PRE
Acerola Acat OU
Peach Mango OU
Pomegranate Blueberry OU
Wild Berry OU
Hua Feng Aluminum
Aluminum Container OU
Aluminum Foil OU
267 Infusions
Rum Infusion Mango OU
Rum Infusion Wild Berry OU
Vodka Infusion Cranberry OU
Anheuser-Busch Beer Products
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Mott’s, a division of Dr Pepper/Snapple Group, sells a beverage called Clamato which contains clam powder, and Anheuser-Busch recently introduced a beverage called Chelada which is a mixture of Budweiser beer and Clamato. In recent months, Kashrus Magazine wrote that since Chelada is tunnel pasteurized on the same equipment as other beer products, the public should avoid all Budweiser products until the process is “inspected by a competent kashrus expert”. [While investigating the issue of Chelada, we also became aware of a related issue stemming from another Anheuser-Busch product called “Bud Light Lime”].
The cRc, which certifies many items produced in the same plant as the Clamato, investigated this concern via visiting the plants where Clamato and Chelada are produced, reviewing formulas, extensive discussions with the companies, and independent research. The following are our conclusions:
§ Anheuser-Busch beers sold in bottles are free and clear of any concerns.
§ Dr Pepper has already made changes to the production of the Clamato used in Chelada, without changing its basic recipe, so that Anheuser-Busch beers sold in cans will also be acceptable.
§ The kosher status of Anheuser-Busch beers are not affected by the Bud Light Lime beverage bottled on shared equipment.
The rationale for these conclusions are beyond the scope of this statement, and will be presented to kashrus professionals at their AKO Conference to be held on November 13, 2008. A more detailed version of this statement, is posted on the cRc website, www.crcweb.org.
From the CRC
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
Several varieties of frozen fruits and vegetables under the “Nature’s Blessed” label, packed by Coloma Foods, Coloma, Michigan, bear an unauthorized cRc. They include Brussel Sprouts, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Raspberries and Asparagus.
These products, although kosher in character, were not checked for insects. The
cRc does not recommend any attempt be made to check for insects on these
products, as it is very difficult to properly do so by anyone other than a trained
mashgiach.
LifeSource Nutrition of Beaverton, Oregon, has misrepresented certain products packaged and/or sold by them as being under cRc certification. The use of the cRc logo on their website and the circulation of cRc kosher certificates supposedly claiming their product to be under cRc certification are unauthorized.
From the OK
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
VEGAN RELLA CHEDDAR BLOCK (IN 8 OZ. PACKAGES – UPC 037983000154 and a sell date of 12/09/2008) has been recalled due to undeclared milk in the product. Consumers may return the product to the place of purchase.
Please be advised that 12 oz. bags of Kroger Value Semi-Sweet Chocolate
Please be advised that 12 oz. Bags of Kroger Value Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips with a sell-by date of May 30.2010 (5/30/10) UPC: 0111108650 may contain some milk chocolate chips. Please contact the Circle K if you have one of these bags at 718-756-7500. **We request that anyone who finds a bag containing these light color chips please contact our office and send us the bag.**
MAMA LUPE’S FLOUR TORTILLAS produced by tortilla King, Inc., Moundridge, KS, is being sold with an unauthorized OK symbol. This product is not certified by OK Kosher Certification.
BENZ’S FOOD PRODUCTS, Brooklyn, NY, is no longer under OK certification. The following lots of Benz’s Gourmet brand Tuna Fish were produced under OK supervision, and are certified when bearing the OKP symbol on the label:
Benz’s Gourmet Solid White Tuna 6 oz. Can –Lot # U78N5SBNN 1NBG1 6803 KFP OKP TART K
BenZ’s Gourmet Chunk White Tuna in water and salt 6/66.5-Lot# U68N5CBNN 1PBG1 6803 KFP OKP TART K
BenZ’s Gourmet Solid White Tuna in water and salt 6/66.5 –Lot # 1069PN TCTH K T827 KP
BenZ’s Gourmet Chunk Light Tuna 6 oz. Can – Lot # U78N2CBNN 10BFX 6803 KFP OKP TART K
BenZ’s Gourmet Chunk Light Tuna in water 6/66.5 – Lot # U68N2CBNN 1PBFX 6803 KFP OKP TARK K
From the STAR-K
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
A complete line of America's Choice frozen vegetables are being sold bearing an unauthorized Star-K. These items have been seen at Pathmark and A&P stores in New York and New Jersey. Corrective action is being taken.
New Companies:
Atlas Walnut
Visalia, CA
Nuts & Seeds
Boston Cookies
Somerville, MA
Cake & Pastry Products, Cookies
Changzhou Xinhong Pharmaceutical & Chemical Industrial Technologies, Inc.
Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
Vitamins, Supplements & Nutritionals
Coral LLC
Incline Village, NV
Vitamins, Supplements & Nutritionals
Deniz Dis Tic.ve Gida San Ltd. Stl.
Malatya, Turkey
Fruit (Dried)
Eco Acuicola SAC (Ecosac)
Piura City, Piura, Peru
Vegetables (Canned)
Linyi City Kangfa Foodstuff Drinkable Co Ltd
Linyi, Shandong, China
Fruit (Canned), Jams/Preserves, Vegetables (Canned)
Topco Associates LLC
Fruit Strip Division
Skokie, IL
CLARIFICATION:
Renaissance Market in San Diego is recommended only for packaged goods bearing a reliable certification. They are not recommended for anything else in the store at this time.
The whole world is frightened of China-made "black hearted goods". Can you differentiate which one is made in Taiwan or China ? . . . if the first 3 digits of the barcode are 690, 691, or 692, the product is MADE IN CHINA .. 471 is Made in Taiwan .
Now a days Chinese businessmen know that consumers do not prefer products "MADE IN CHINA", so they often do not the country of origin. However, you may now refer to the barcode, remember if the first 3 digits are 690-692 it is MADE IN CHINA.
00 - 09 USA & CANADA
30 - 37 FRANCE
40 - 44 GERMANY
49 - JAPAN
50 - UK
Rabbi Yechiel Spira as seen in JKN Kashrus Briefs / Dec. 2008
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
1. China Express Restaurant [32 Maskit Street] in Herzliya Pituach –
The place lost its supervision for non-compliance and is negotiating
to get it back. The folks at the Herzliya Religious Council stress
that if one wishes to check, one must make certain there is a valid,
dated, non-photo copy kosher certificate from the Herzliya Rabbinate
before sitting down to eat. I did phone and they were honest and told
me at present, they do not have certification but hope to get it soon.
2. There are repeated requests to remind Israeli consumers that OU-D
is a dairy certification and the product is NOT chalav yisrael. This
is a long standing problem and it appears the OU does not warrant a
change of clarification towards better informing Israelis who are not
familiar with the OU as are North Americans. Unfortunately, few Hebrew-
speaking Israelis read this.
3. At the end of Kislev, after Chanukah, the kashrut certificates for
‘heter mechira’ vendors expire in Machane Yehuda in Jerusalem, “The
Shuk”, and one should make certain vendors have a current certificate
before shopping. Issues of concern are many, including kedushat
shvi’it for fruits for example, trumot and ma’asrot, orla and more.
4. Marzipan Bakery on Agrippas Street: I investigated a rumor that the
bakery lost its OU certification for export to the United States after
its kosher standard did not meet criteria. I investigated by speaking
with the bakery’s owner, Itzik Ozarko, and the folks at the OU Israel.
The rumor is not based in fact. Marzipan in Israel is under the
mehadrin supervision of Beit Yosef and under the OU for export of two
items only, chocolate and cinnamon rugelach, exactly as Itzik told me.
Nothing has changed and any rumors to the contrary are untrue.
5. Shulchan David – located in the Old City of Yerushalayim near Kever
David and Diaspora Yeshiva is under the supervision of the Jerusalem
Rabbinate regular, not mehadrin.
6. Rabbi Mordechai Kuber has stepped down as the head of the OU in
Israel and has been replaced by his assistance, Rabbi Yosef Minsky.
For questions, or comments please send me an email at
Jerusalemkn@gmail.com . I will do my best to respond.
The Chief Rabbinate of Israel obtained a court order to raid a food
warehouse, confiscating kreplach (dumplings) advertised as a veal-
filled kosher item but in actuality, the product contains pork
stuffing, not kosher veal.
The product bears an English label, Albertino de Leone, with Hebrew
and Russian text as well. The product barcode is 7290001158258.
(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)
Israel Alerts
- Alert posted on Sun January 4th, 2009
This update, distributed by Rabbi Rafi Yochai of the Chief Rabbinate
of Israel, is sent to religious councils around the country.
This is NOT a word-for-word translation but does provide an in-depth
overview of the Hebrew original.
TRAIF ALERT – The Lev HaSharon Rabbinate reports that a company
operating under the name Meshek Zamir LTD (052-555-4946) are not under
rabbinical supervision after they were apprehended with traif (non-kosher)
meat. The company’s website advertises it is kosher, and the Rabbinate fears
it still distributes a forged photocopied kashrut certificate. Meat is from a
non-kosher butcher shop called Agnes, located in Tirah.
WARNING – Chocolate and pecan liquor produced under the label Yakvei
HaNegev (Negev Wineries) for the Los Latinos Company, is advertising the
product as mehadrin, under the supervision of the Badatz Eida Chareidit.
The label states in English “Kosher Milky”. It has been learned that the
product does not have any kosher supervision whatsoever.
Amko Company “Mizli” (dried fruit product) barcode 7290011501594,
marketed under the label Sasson Hacola. Consumers noted it was bug-
infested, prompting the Rabbinate inspection. The label states under the
supervision of the Prague Rabbinate with import permission from the Chief
Rabbinate of Israel. The kashrut claim is bogus.
Tabor- Syrian Olive Oil – one liter bottles with the label stating Nationwide
Rabbinate certification and Chatam Sofer mehadrin. The kashrut claim is bogus.
Tarbush Bakery (08-945-9446) located in Rechovot – also packaging Du
La Peh cookies and baked products – The kashrut claim is bogus.
Bat Yam based “Anak HaKa’akim” is no longer authorized to advertise as
kosher after if was learned the company was printing bogus labels stating
under the supervision of Bat Yam Rabbinate and Badatz Beit Yosef.
Shimna oil, located near Moshav Chagor – does not have a kashrut certifi-
cation despite claims to the contrary. Inspectors found non-kosher oil on the premises.
Yehuda Regional Council Rabbinate has temporarily removed the kashrut
certification of the 4 Seasons Catering due to “severe kashrut violations” that
are not detailed in the report.
ZuZuba Restaurant in Afula – located on HaNasi Street - advertises as
kosher mehadrin. It has no kosher supervision whatsoever.
Catering facility Chagiga B’kfar – advertising under the name Al Kad
Café – near Kfar Hess – the establishment was caught serving food lacking
any kosher certification as well as meat and milk products together. Rabbis
are not permitted to conduct wedding ceremonies in the hall, which currently has no kosher certification.
Deli Cream Ice Cream – Netivot – advertises as kosher but has no kashrut
certification whatsoever.
Following are stores advertising as kosher without authorization or
had their certification revoked.
ZICHRON YAAKOV -- The Moshava HaGedola – lost its certification.
HERZLIYA -- Ugot Shel Rachel – lost its certification for non-compliance with
Rabbinate directives.
PETACH TIKVAH -- Shilat Café on Shimshon Street – the owners requested to
terminate kashrut certification.
ROSH HAAYIN -- Melech HaFalafel – kashrut certification revoked due to violations.
HAIFA -- Armon Hall – 60 Histadrut Blvd – lost its kashrut certification.
AFULA -- Abu Nassr Falafel – Old Shuk – lost its kashrut certification.
ZEVULUN -- Ichut (Quality) Bakery – near Kfar Bialik – falsely advertising that
it is under the supervision of Rabbi Yaakov Mor-Yosef.
KIRYAT TIVON -- Shuki meats and mini market and take home food – 2 HaKalanit St.
and a second location - both have lost their kashrut certification.
NETIVOT-- Kikar HaChama Bakery and Deli Cream Ice Cream – 4 Samilo Street –
no kashrut supervision.
TEL AVIV-- Shaul Restaurant – 45 Eilat St – no kosher supervision despite claims
to the contrary.
Grill Bar – 47 Yehuda Halevy St – Advertises as kosher. Does not have
a Rabbinate supervision.
Bazil Congress Restaurant – 141 Even Givrol St – kosher certification
revoked.
Bar Kokis Bakery – 31 She’erit Yisrael St – Advertises under the
supervision of Tel Aviv Rabbinate but is not.
Ola Tortia Bar Restaurant – 2 Mikve Yisrael St – Advertises as kosher
but has no supervision.
Eldin Bakery – in the central bus station – third floor – posts Shemen
HaMishcha non-authorized kashrut agency. No Rabbinate certification.
Super Toast – Central bus station – 6th floor - posts Shemen HaMishcha
non-authorized kashrut agency. No Rabbinate certification.
Unauthorized from KOLA
- Alert posted on Tue December 9th, 2008
Bought Libby's Pumpkin Bread Kit at Costco today. The outside of the box says O-U. Inside, there are three ingredients, the pumpkin cans (clearly labelled o-u) bread mix (unlabelled) and icing (unlabelled). Knowing that most icings are NOT parve, I went to the O-U website and sure enough, the certification letter specifies that the product Neste's Libby's (Pumpkin Bread Kit with Icing) is O-U-D. There seems to be another.
Health Alert from COR
- Alert posted on Tue December 9th, 2008
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has informed us that they are satisfied with the sanitization of the cheese production facililities which may have been contaminated with Listeria. (see our previous Alert dated September 4, 2008)
The cheeses that were affected and are now cleared for consumption by the CFIA are:
Ivanhoe and Great Canadian - Cheddar, Marble, Asiago, Gouda, Swiss, Parmesan, Mozzarella, Colby, Brick, Feta.
Unauthorized Kashrut
- Alert posted on Tue December 9th, 2008
Following is a list of eateries which have unauthorized kashrut or
lost their supervision.
CHOF HACARMEL: Givenit Tzach dairy – The Galim Youth Village – has lost its kashrut supervision as of Sept. 14th.
ZARZIR: Ichut HaBasar butcher – kashrut was removed by the National
Rabbinate Supervision.
RABBI DOV LIOR: Bo L’echol Restaurant at Kikar Shalit in Herzliya – it has lost its kashrut supervision because the restaurant is open on
Shabbat.
SOUTHERN SHARON: The pool area of Kibbutz Chorshim is not permitted to
host weddings since it operates on Shabbat.
MAALOT: Avi & Humus located in the industrial area lost its
supervision. Magic Crim, Magic Grill, Crackers Bakery = all lost their kashrut
supervision.
Sheinfeld Restaurant located in the center Yad B’Yad Galil at the entrance to Kfar Veradim has been granted mehadrin supervision by the local Rabbinate.
Rabbi Yaakov Sabag
Chief of Kashrut Division
Rabbi Rafi Yochai
Chief of National Kashrut Fraud Prevention
From the OK
- Alert posted on Sun November 9th, 2008
Please note that Lightlife Foods produces both kosher-certified and non-kosher products. Only products bearing the OK symbol on the label are certified kosher by OK Kosher Certification. Please check labels carefully before purchasing.
* * *
Please be advised that POMONA’S UNIVERSAL PECTIN was mistakenly labeled with the OK Kosher symbol. The product is not certified by OK Kosher Certification. Packaging is being corrected.
* * *
Please be advised that MR. SOFTEE VANILLA ICE CREAM MIX produced by HORSTMANN MIX and CREAM Long Island City, NY has been mislabeled as OK Pareve. This product is actually dairy and should be labeled OK-D.
Labeling is being destroyed and new labels are being printed.
* * *
Please be advised that CHEESE TORTELLINI produced by FIORELLA PASTA COMPANY 4559 White Plains Road Bronx, NY 10470 has been mislabeled as OK Pareve. This product is actually dairy and should be labeled OK-D.
Labeling is being destroyed and new labels are being printed.
* * *
Please be advised that as of today OK KOSHER CERTIFICATION has revoked certification of All Natural Food Corporation 111 Ditmus Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11218.
From the cRc
- Alert posted on Sun November 9th, 2008
Effective immediately, Ocean Beauty, Los Angeles, California, packers of Salmon roe, is no longer certified by the cRc.
Effective immediately, Brans Nut Co. & Wauconda Orchards, Wauconda, Illinois, packers of assorted nut products, is no longer certified by the cRc.
Effective August 1, 2008, Supply Systems, Dallas Texas, a manufacturer of commercial and industrial cleaning supplies, is no longer under the certification of the cRc.
Due to changes in manufacturing caused by the recent flooding in Iowa, only those Swiss Valley Brand Yogurts bearing the cRc D logo on the label are certified kosher dairy (Cholov Stam) by the Chicago Rabbinical Council.
Consumers are always encouraged to check each label when making food purchases.
The Slurpee flavors listed below, either already in the stores, or due to be released soon, ARE NOT CERTIFIED KOSHER!:
• STRAWBERRY TWIZZLER
• MONSTER BLACK ICE
• GATORADE GRID IRON ICE
• PINA COLADA
• TROPICANA GRAPE WILD STRAWBERRY
Dill Pickle flavored sunflower seeds under the Dakota Valley brand, Willow Lake, South Dakota, bears an unauthorized cRc. Corrective measures are being taken.
The “D” Dairy designation was inadvertently omitted on Streit’s brand “Lower East Side Mix”, a candy and nut mix. The product is certified cRc dairy (Cholov Stam), as indicated on the ingredient panel.
Please be advised that A & W Root Beer Float and Sunkist Orange Float are NOT certified kosher. The Regular varieties of both, including the diet version, continue to be kosher.
Non Kosher Pasta
- Alert posted on Sun November 9th, 2008
Pasta Quistini Jumbo Ravioli with Portobello Mushrooms & Ricotta
Pasta Quistini Sundried Tomato & Cheese Tortolloni
are NOT Kosher!
Cheese
- Alert posted on Sun November 9th, 2008
The Canadian Food Inspection Age ncy (CFIA) and Ivanhoe Cheese Inc are warning the public not to consume various cheese products described below because these products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
The following cheese products bearing Best Before dates from 09 FE 20 to 09 MR 01 (February 20 to March 1, 2009) inclusive are affected by this alert. These products were sold from August 20, 2008 up to and including September 3, 2008.
Brand Names: Ivanhoe and Great Canadian -- Cheddar, Marble, Asiago, Gouda, Swiss, Parmesan, Mozzarella, Colby, Brick, Feta.
The CFIA will be updating a comprehensive list of all affected products as it becomes available.
The manufacturer is voluntarily recalling the affected products from the marketplace under the supervision of the CFIA.
For more information, consumers and industry can call one of the following numbers:
Ivanhoe Consumer Hotline: 613.827.5096
CFIA: 1.800.442.23 42 / TTY 1.800.465.7735 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST Monday to Friday)
E. Waldo Ward & Sons Inc
- Alert posted on Sun November 9th, 2008
Please be advised that as of August 1, 2008 product produced at E. Waldo Ward & Sons Inc. are no longer under KSA supervision.
The labels produced at this facility include:
Black Sheep
E. Waldo Ward
KTW
La Vigne
Lee Dragon's
Mistral
Olive Pit
R&M
Randy Jones
Robbies
Sassy’s
Smokin Jacks
cRc Alert
- Alert posted on Sun November 9th, 2008
The following products distributed by The Sassafras Company of Chicago Bears an unauthorized cRc and Kof K. Corrective measures are being taken.
• Chocolate Moose Mousse
• Kid’s Milkshake Mix
• Sundae Kit
Twizzler Strawberry Slurpee
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Twizzler Strawberry Slurpee is NOT the same Twizzler that was sold a few years ago. The new flavor is still being reviewed and has NOT been certified Kosher at the time of this alert.
Trader Joe's 50% Less Salt then Roasted and Salted Fancy Mixed Nuts
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Trader Joe's 50% Less Salt then Roasted and Salted Fancy Mixed Nuts used to have a hashgacha but now no longer has a hashgacha (a product of Thailand). This product is not recommended.
Kellogg's Snacks
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Please be advised that the following product produced by Kellogg's Snacks has been mislabeled and is NOT Kosher: Sunshine Cheez-It, Double Cheese Baked Snack Mix. The labels were erroneously printed with the O/Kd symbol. The product is being recalled and labels are being corrected. If you purchased this product, please contact Kellogg's Consumer Service at (877) 453-5837 for a refund or a free product coupon that you can use on one of their many Kosher certified Kellogg or Keebler products.
Prince Macaroni and Cheese
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Prince Macaroni and Cheese bears an unauthorized O/U symbol and is being withdrawn from the marketplace. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at (212) 613-8241 or via email at kashalerts@ou.org.
Monster Black Slurpee
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Another new Slurpee flavor, Monster Black, will be introduced in July. This flavor is NOT KOSHER!
Trader Joe's brand cashews
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Please be advised that Trader Joe's brand cashews marked product of Thailand bear an unauthorized BCK symbol of Kashrus. Consumers finding this product are asked to contact BC Kosher at (604) 731-1803 or by email info@bckosher.org
Coombs Family Farms Organic Apple 7 Cinnamon Pancake Mix
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Coombs Family Farms Organic Apple 7 Cinnamon Pancake Mix was mislabeled Kof K pareve. The product is Kof-K dairy. Corrective measures are being taken.
Arizona Fruit Smoothie Mix
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Arizona Fruit Smoothie Mix Pineapple Coconut flavor contains dairy ingredients as listed on the ingredient panel but the dairy designation has been inadvertently omitted. Future packaging will be revised.
Arizona Only Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
The Arizona Only Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf stores have mistakenly received non-Kosher certified individual yogurts and cottage cheeses containers. Even though these items are sold separately in their own individual containers the Kosher consumer needs to know that the yogurts and cottage cheeses in Arizona CBTL's are not Kosher, until these items are immediately replaced with the regular Kosher certified Knudsen cottage cheese and Horizon yogurts.
Gourmet Fresh Basil Pesto
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Gourmet Fresh Basil Pesto from All Natural Food Corp. is NOT certified and bears an unauthorized O/K symbol.
Near East Bakery Saco
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Please be advised that the O/K Kosher certification no longer certifies Tortillas produced by Near East Bakery Saco
Shatnez Alert
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Regarding the Eco Step Women's Sneaker (Vibram), made in China. Its content label lists Genuine Leather, upper: man-made materials, insold: smart wool.
A fabric test revealed that the actual content of the upper is a linen/cotton blend in one direction and rayon in the other direction. The removable insole is a white and gray knit fabric, and the same fabric is sewn onto the back against the heel. The white threads are wool. For more information or to have questions answered, please contact Lakewood Shatnez Labs at 661 7th St. at (732) 364-7056
Nabisco Oreo
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
O/U: Nabisco is introducing a new variety of Oreo brand Cookies, Oreo Fudge Rings, which are currently NOT certified Kosher. Please note that the Oreo Fudge Rings label does NOT bear the O/U symbol.
Libby's Fruit Cocktail
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
O/U: Regarding Libby's Fruit Cocktail: This product was packaged in cases whose exterior markings represent the product as being O/U certified. Libby's Fruit Cocktail is NOT O/U certified.
Homowack Lodge (a/k/a Spring Mountian Resort)
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
O/U: Effective April 30, 2008, the Homowack Lodge (a/k/a Spring Mountian Resort) will be discontinuing O/U Kosher Supervision and will be under the Vaad Beis Din of New Square.
Potato Chips
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
COR: Please note that the following potato chips do not bear a COR symbol at this time. In September 2008, the products will again be manufactured at COR supervised facilities: Compliments Kettle Barbecue, Compliments Kettle Garlic & Herb, Compliments Kettle Jalapeno, Compliments Kettle Salt & Malt Vinegar (dairy), Compliments Kettle Sour Cream & Onion (dairy).
Great Northern Smokehouses and Fine Foods
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Please be advised that effective immediately, Great Northern Smokehouses and Fine Foods is no longer under COR Kosher certification
Bake Crafters Donuts
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
COR: The following Bake Crafters Donuts, bearing the COR 517 were inadvertently labeled without the “dairy” designation: Glazed Devils Food Donut Holes, Mini Cruller Donuts, Powdered Mini Gem Sugar Donuts, Chocolate Mini Gem Donuts, Glazed Sour Kreme Donut Holes. Corrective measures have been taken.
Lea & Perrins Worchestershire Sauce
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
COR: Several batches of Lea & Perrins Worchestershire Sauce, 3.7 L, were inadvertently labeled without the “COR Fish” designation. This product does contain fish ingredients and should bear “COR 10 Fish” on the label. Corrective measures have been taken.
KOF-K: Funnel Cake Mix
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
... manufactured by Good Food Inc., Honey Brook, PA was mislabeled “KOF-K Pareve”. the product is KOf-K Dairy. Corrective measures are being taken.
Balglobe Fruit Jellies
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
Brands: Balglobe Fine Foods
Products: Gelees De Fruit Jellies
Company: Balglobe Fine Foods - Pointe- Claire, QC
Issue: This product (sold primarily in Canada) bears an unauthorized O/U symbol. Consumers spotting this product are requested to contact the Orthodox Union at (212) 613-8148 or via email at Kashalerts@ou.org.
KOAOA (The Half-Moon K)...
- Alert posted on Thu August 14th, 2008
... is no longer certifying any bagged, pre-washed romaine, spring mix, and other leafy greens products made by Taylor Farms, Salinas, CA and Yuma, AZ. For a short time, KOAOA was certifying some lots of such lettuces under the daily supervision of a mashgiach t'midi, however that production has been discontinued.
This notice only applies to leafy greens. KOAOA continues to certify other vegetables processed by Taylor Farms as identified on each location's letter of certification.
Taylor Farms Lettuce
- Alert posted on Fri August 8th, 2008
KOAOA (The Half-Moon K) is no longer certifying any bagged, pre-washed romaine, spring mix, and other leafy greens products made by Taylor Farms, Salinas, CA and Yuma, AZ. For a short time, KOAOA was certifying some lots of such lettuces under the daily supervision of a mashgiach t'midi, however that production has been discontinued.
This notice only applies to leafy greens. KOAOA continues to certify other vegetables processed by Taylor Farms as identified on each location's letter of certification.
