Behind the Scenes
Chocolate
A review of the chocolate industry and its implications for Kosher.
Master List Of Bishul Akum Status Of Foods
A summary of the reasons why food may be exempt from the rules of Bishul Akum.
Low-Fat And Imitation Cheese Manufacture
The Halakhic implications and status of low fat and artificial cheeses.
Mezonos Rolls
The official OU policy on Mezonos Rolls
Food Service Hashgacha
There is a common misconception that being a mashgiach in a food service establishment is a simple job, and that the mashgiach in such establishments has minimal responsibilities. In reality, the food service industry, which includes restaurants, caterers, hotels, hospitals, yeshivos and nursing homes, has always been a challenging area for kashrus organizations and the onsite mashgichim that perform the actual supervision. Demands on a food service mashgiach are multiple, unpredictability is the norm, and evaluations have to be executed immediately. To help appreciate the above, I am sharing with the reader some of the intricacies that must be dealt with in a food service establishment.
Bedikas Tolaim (Checking For Insect Infestation)
A survey of the concern for insect and bug (tola’im) infestation in fresh and frozen vegetables.
Salad Days For The OU
A survey of the challenges and opportunities for the Kosher supervision of salad dressings.
Ancient Bowfin Presents New Ich-Theological Conundrum
What is the Kosher status of the bowfin, the notorious freshwater fish?
“Korn” Syrup And The Real Thing
The inside story of sugar and other sweeteners from the Kosher perspective.
Making Fruit Jelly Kosher: It’s Easier Than Ever
A discussion of the manufacture of Grape Jelly and how one company has been able to use recent changes to expand their manufacture of Kosher Grape Jelly.