Insect Infestation Alert - Barley, Brown Rice, Cashews
February 1, 2022 - From the COR Detroit:
- BARLEY CHECKING REMINDER: There have been several reports recently of insects found in Gefen Pearl Barley. Many Kashrus agencies recommend that all barley (and in particular Yoshon brands) be checked prior to use. Following are two options for checking:
Soaking Method:
- Place all the barley you wish to use in a white bowl, and fill the bowl with water, a few inches over the top of the barley.
- Allow to sit for 15-20 minutes. If insects are present, they will float to the top. If any do, repeat the process, and if no more are then found, the barley may be used.
Plate Method:
- Place a small pile of barley - about two ounces at a time - on a white paper plate (not plastic, which creates a shine) with good overhead light that illuminates the plate.
- Use a finger or a fork to drag a small amount of barley away from the pile, spreading that barley in a single layer. Visually inspect the spread-apart barley, looking for webbing, black insects and white or tan worms between or under the kernels.
- Repeat this until the entire pile has been checked. Then do the same for the rest of the barley in the package.
- BROWN RICE CHECKING REMINDER from Star-K: There are reports in a number of cities that infestation is being found in brown rice. Star-K recommends checking brown rice for insects prior to use, as follows:
- Place the brown rice (no more than 16 oz. at a time) in a mesh strainer. Mesh size should ideally be #12 mesh or larger.
- Shake the brown rice over a lightbox or white paper for 25-30 seconds.
- Examine the surface of the lightbox or paper for any insect presence. If no insects are found, the brown rice may be used. If any insects are found, the brown rice should not be used.
- CASHEWS notice from OK: The OK Kosher Tolaim Committee has been finding insects and worms in cashews. Consumers should split them open and make a cursory inspection, especially when holes are visible.