Alerts

Golden Raisins Alert and Quinoa Update
September 24, 2024

GOLDEN RAISINS ALERT:
Recent extensive testing by many kashrus agencies has shown an increased infestation issue specifically in golden raisins. We have not found a practical way for consumers to check them. As such, STAR-K is recommending that golden raisins not be used, regardless of the source, until further notice.

At this time, this concern does not apply to red raisins or currants. STAR-K still recommends that red raisins and currants be purchased from companies/stores that have proper storage and quality control practices, and that they be kept in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight or warm, humid conditions.

QUINOA UPDATE: STAR-K recommends that ALL quinoa be checked prior to usage, even when there is a hechsher on the package. Infestation issues arise from improper storage, which is beyond the control of any hashgacha.

See www.checkforinsects.com for guidelines.

Most recently: Simpli brand White, Tricolor or Red Quinoa, with Use-By dates May-June 2026, was found to be infested.

Miele Refrigeration Products
July 26, 2024

Effective August 1, 2024, STAR-K will no longer certify Miele Sabbath Mode appliances. STAR-K will not be able to offer support for any Miele appliances purchased after this date.

Those seeking to purchase appliances compatible with Shabbos and Yom Tov are advised to select models certified by a reliable kashrus agency.

Anabtawi Sweets
July 23, 2024

Boxes of various sweets, manufactured by Anabtawi Sweets Co, bear an unauthorized STAR-K sticker. These include Cashew Fingers, Mamoul, Baklava, Barazek and Kaeek with Date. Corrective action is being taken.

Napoli Artichoke Hearts
June 09, 2024

Cans of Napoli Artichoke Hearts bear an unauthorized STAR-K symbol. Product was found in a grocery store in Connecticut. STAR-K does not certify artichoke hearts due to insect infestation. The product should not be used. Corrective action is being taken.

Wolf Certified "M" Series Wall Ovens
June 06, 2024

The Sabbath Mode in the models listed below was not correctly implemented according to STAR-K specifications. Pressing "+" or "-" to adjust the temperature causes a display change on the screen, which is forbidden on Yom Tov.

One may not adjust the temperature of these ovens on Yom Tov, even when in Sabbath Mode. All other Sabbath Mode functions work properly.

• New Model # (Old Model #)
• SO3050TM/S/T (SO30TM/S/TH)
• SO3050CM/B (SO30CM/B)
• SO3050CM/S (SO30CM/S)
• DO3050TM/S/T (DOTM/S/TH)
• DO3050CM/B (DO30CM/B)
• DO3050CM/S (DO30CM/S)

This alert does not impact Professional style "M" Series wall ovens with knob controls.

Wolf is aware of the issue and will include a resolution in their next software update.

If you own one of these models, contact the Wolf service department at 800-222-7820 to report the problem. They will arrange a service appointment when the update is ready.

Thermador Certified Integrated Refrigerators & Freezers
May 23, 2024

STAR-K has received reports from consumers that the Thermador integrated refrigerators and freezers listed below do not maintain proper cooling temperatures when set in Sabbath Mode:

T30IR | T30IF | T36IR | T36IF

Stores should consider not selling these models to consumers who require a Sabbath Mode.

Consumers who own one of these models and are experiencing issues should be directed to contact Thermador and open a service ticket. We ask that they forward that information to STAR-K at this address and we will follow up as needed.

KitchenAid: Model KRFF577KPS: KitchenAid Freestanding French Door Refrigerator
March 28, 2024

It has come to our attention that some KitchenAid KRFF577KPS 26.8 Cu. Ft. Standard-Depth French Door Refrigerator with Exterior Ice & Water Dispenser units have a malfunctioning Sabbath Mode. This issue has been identified in recently purchased units.

To determine if you own an affected unit, enter Sabbath Mode and hold down the door switches. If you hear a fan activate or deactivate when the switches are pressed and released, then Sabbath Mode is not working correctly.

KitchenAid is working on a solution to resolve the issue. In the interim, to use on Shabbos or Yom Tov, STAR-K recommends taping down the door switches along with setting Sabbath Mode.

Please email [email protected] if you would like to be notified when a fix is available.

Mr. Nut - Dried Mulberry
March 01, 2024

Packages of Mr. Nut Dried Mulberry, distributed by Vintage Food Corp of Newark, NJ, bear an unauthorized STAR-K symbol. STAR-K does not certify this company or any mulberries due to infestation. See sample packaging below. Corrective action is being taken.

Magic Seasoning Blends Gravy & Gumbo Magic
February 06, 2024

Magic Seasonings Blends Gravy & Gumbo Magic bears an unauthorized STAR-K symbol. The product is not kosher. The very limited number of products that reached the marketplace have been recalled.

A Swagman's Shop Herbal Supplements
January 30, 2024

Herbal supplements sold on eBay by A Swagman's Shop of Midland, Texas, bear an unauthorized STAR-K symbol. They are made with non-kosher gelatin capsules. Corrective action is being taken.

Sadaf Mamoul, Barazek & Baklava
January 25, 2024

Packages of Sadaf Mamoul with Date, Barazek with Sesame, and Baklava bear an unauthorized STAR-K symbol. Corrective action is being taken.