K A S H R U T . C O M_©

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The following kashrus alert is from the Volover Rav on February 18, 2011.

Due to many inquiries, regarding insect infestation in th stomach (not in the flesh) of the various "Gefen" fish, it is important to again advise the following:

1. Sardines from Portugal, whether in oil ro water , must first be opened and the inside cleaned out thoroughly. If one is not sure how to clean it, do not eat them.
2. The "Skinless & Boneless" sardines are OK.
3. The "Bristing"' Sardines from Scotland, whether in water or oil cannot be cleaned and may not be eaten.
4. The kippered snacks from Canada are OK.
5. All tuna is OK.

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The following updated kashrus alert is from the Vaad of Flatbush on February 16, 2011.

The Vaad Hakashrus of Flatbush has been researching Anisakis infestation in the stomachs of sardines. We have been testing sardines from several countries. The following position is the result of our findings and reflects our opinion on this matter:
At an Asifas HaRabbonim last night in Boro Park we opened numerous cans of sardines from Portugal and Scotland. The sardines were inspected by many Rabbonim and Kashrus experts. The sardines from Portugal were observed to be infested with Anisakis worms in the internal organs and abdominal cavity, as previously confirmed by the Vaad Hakashrus of Flatbush. Additionally, the sardines from Scotland were found to be infested as well. In our opinion the necessary cleaning process is too complicated for the layman to attempt.
Therefore it is our position that sardines from Portugal and Scotland should not be used.
It is important to note, that the majority of sardines on the kosher market are from Morocco. Extensive research on sardines from Morocco has shown them to be clean of infestation. The above research was only performed on canned sardines available in the USA, and not on fresh sardines. The country of origin is printed on each package of sardines.

The following are articles explaining the kashrus issues of parasites in fish:

• Worms in Fish – the Recent Tumult by Rabbi Moishe Dovid Lebovits
• Parasites In Fish by Rabbi Dovid Bistricer
• Opening Up A Can of Worms: The Anisakis Controversy by Rabbi Tzvi Rosen