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A few weeks ago, I attended a meeting in New York City at the OU office as a representative of Dallas Kosher. This assembly was the annual meeting of ARKO or Association of Reliable Kashrus Organizations of which our Vaad is a member. We discussed a number of agenda items, ranging from the difference in the kashrus standards of European agencies as compared to the kashrus standards in the States to what ingredients should be considered kosher without certification known in the kosher industry as a group one category.
One of the critical topics discussed was the current problem with infestation of vegetables and especially leafy lettuce. As you read in the kosher alert section of the newsletter, the Star-K removed its hecsher from Fresh Express products only giving an exception to Garden Salad (iceberg lettuce) & Cole Slaw (green or purple cabbage). As more people have become aware of the infestation problem, we at the Vaad have received several requests to print a list explaining which products are prone to infestation and how to check and clean them before eating.
The *“Vegetable Washing Guide” found on the next page lists only a few of the most common problematic vegetable products and although this list is certainly not all inclusive, I hope it will be of assistance to you in preparing your meals. This list is based on research and consultation with other community Vaads, such as: St. Louis and Chicago. Please call me or Rabbi Shawel at the Office for specific questions or concerns on these or any other vegetable products. The main thing I want you to remember is to enjoy your kosher food and as always have a kosher day!
Rabbi Sholey Klein
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