Kosher Spirit Chanukah 5777

CERTIFIED SOUL NUTRITION

QUESTIONS FOR THE ~

5 6 7 8 12 14 16 17 18 20 22 23

HEALTHY SPIRIT

FLEISCHMANN’S: A TRADITION OF QUALITY

EYE ON KOSHER: XANTHAN GUM by Rabbi Sholom Ber Hendel

316 WAYS ~ KOSHERED YOUR WORLD IN 2016

KEEPING KOSHER IN PRISON by Leigh Hershkovich

SEALED WITH THE STAMP OF THE KOHEN GADOL IN MEMORIAM: MRS. MIRIAM WUDOWSKY OB”M

ANNUAL ~ CONFERENCE IN PICTURES

CHANUKAH RECIPE: STUFFED LATKES

WHO’S BEHIND THE ~ Rabbi Eli Lando

CHASSIDIC INSIGHTS

Compiled by Dina Fraenkel

SOUL NUTRITION by Rabbi

Chaim Fogelman

Dear Reader,

Today, kosher consumers are more vigilant and scrupulous than ever; they expect the highest standards and immediate answers to their questions.

Gone are the days when the kosher consumer blindly relied on the certifying rabbi and organization without questioning their protocols and decisions. In the age of transparency and easy access to a world of information at one’s fingertips, consumers have become accustomed to quick replies and answers to all of their inquiries.

At ~ Kosher we have kept up with the needs of the kosher consumer, as well. And no one knew this more up-close and personal than Mrs. Miriam Wudowsky, a”h. For the past 20 years, Mrs. Wudowsky patiently answered your kosher related questions and managed the ~ Kosher Consumers’ desk. Mrs. Wudowsky also sent out all of the ~ Kosher kashrus alerts to other kashrus agencies, media outlets, as well as to many individual consumers. These alerts are vital and the first call of action to let the public know the latest status of any given product.

Unexpectedly, Mrs. Wudowsky returned her neshomah to her Creator right before Yom Kippur, leaving a vacuum not only at the ~, but to thousands of kosher consumers throughout the world, who knew her voice but never saw her face. In this issue, in honor of Mrs. Wudowsky, OBM, we dedicate an article on Kosher Alerts, to give you a bit of an insight of why and how they are done.

KOSHER SPIRIT Chanukah 5777

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:

Rabbi Chaim Fogelman

EDITOR:

Dina Fraenkel

DESIGN:

Spotlight Design

We welcome your comments, submissions and letters to the editor.

Mail: 391 Troy Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11213

Email: editor@kosherspirit.com

© 2015. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without written consent from the publisher.

Mrs. Wudowsky is survived by her children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, BA”H, who will certainly miss her. Here at ~ Kosher, her presence and friendly smile are greatly missed as well.

May Miriam bas Meir Dov rest in peace and be a gutter better on behalf of us all.

Rabbi Chaim Fogelman Editor in Chief

Share Your Spirit

Readers share their thoughts...

~ CERTIFIED PARVELLA CHOCOLATE SPREAD BY PARVELLA INTERNATIONAL WON BEST IN SHOW IN THE ANNUAL NEW PRODUCT COMPETITION THAT PRECEDES KOSHERFEST!

PARVELLA BEAT OUT HUNDREDS OF NEW PRODUCTS IN THIS ANNUAL COMPETITION JUDGED BY A PANEL OF CONSUMERS AND EXPERTS.

IS DARK CHOCOLATE REALLY DAIRY FREE?

Is Dark Chocolate really dairy free? A 2014 FDA study revealed that over 50% of surveyed dark chocolate tested positive for milk even when NO DAIRY INGREDIENTS WERE LISTED ON THE LABEL! This study shows what kosher certifications agencies have known all along – production methods affect the pareve or dairy status of products, even when the product does not officially contain milk!

Please note: when Pareve chocolate says “May contain traces of milk” this can refer to airborne particles and is only an allergen warning that does not affect kosher pareve status.

Dear Kosher Spirit,

The effect of ~ Kosher is surprising and profound. While on hold, a caller and her mother were listening to the “on hold music”. They said they chouldn’t remember why they stopped lighting Shabbos candles and decided to light them again and were so happy to receive the CD from the office. - Chanie R.

The ~ receives many letters/emails with kosher questions...

DEAR KOSHER SPIRIT, IS IT PERMISSIBLE TO SOAK AND WASH LETTUCE ON SHABBOS AND YOM TOV? HOW ABOUT PRECHECKED LETTUCE THAT SAYS TO WASH BEFORE USING?

The ~ Responds:

It is permissible to soak, wash and check all lettuce on Shabbos and Yom Tov. It does not have to be done immediately before the meal, because washing is not considered a form of separating. Please refer to our Vegetable Checking Guide for complete instructions. www.ok.org/assets/files/OK_Veggie_Checking_Guide.pdf

LIGHT

Chanukah is the Festival of Lights, when we kindle our menorahs in the doorway to light up the outside world, with both a physical and a spiritual light. Here’s 8 ways that we benefit from natural (sun) light.

Natural light increases serotonin production, which improves productivity and increases happiness and calm.

Exposure to natural light can help prevent depression and lift one’s spirits.

Sunlight is the primary source of adequate vitamin D exposure (an essential vitamin to our health).

Natural light in your home reduces mildew and mold growth.

Adequate exposure to natural light helps regulate your sleep/wake cycle and is essential for a good night’s sleep.

Moderate sun exposure is thought to decrease one’s risk of certain cancers, including pancreatic, prostate, ovarian, Hodgkin’s lymphoma and colon cancers.

Sun exposure can help treat psoriasis, eczema, jaundice, and acne.

Having significant sources of natural light in your home can reduce electricity costs by 75% due to the reduced need for artificial lighting and heating.

It’s important to note that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. If you are going out during this time for more than 15 minutes, it’s best to wear sunscreen.

Fleischmann’s A tradition of quality

Traditions surrounding baking directly link us to our past. Whether it’s a box full of weathered recipes handwritten by a relative, the recollection of helping prepare a special holiday meal as a child or the aroma of a freshly baked Challah, they all conjure up warm memories of time spent with loved ones and a connection between the past and present.

For centuries and generations, baked goods have been a staple of diets around the world. 5,000 years ago, unleavened, flat breads were all that people knew. Around this time, it is believed a baker set aside some dough and forgot to place it on the fire. This dough eventually soured and expanded dramatically because of the natural growth of its yeast cells. When this dough was added to the batch, it produced an aerated and raised bread, unlike anything seen before. From that moment on, the world of baking would never be the same.

Fast-forward to the 1860s when enterprising brothers and immigrants to the United States, Charles and Maximillian Fleischmann, set out to change the baking industry in their ad-

opted homeland when they launched Fleischmann’s Yeast Company.

Charles was born in Austria-Hungry in 1834 and was the son of a baker. Armed with the knowledge of the family trade, he left home at the tender age of thirteen and spent the next six years learning distilling and yeast technology with master craftsmen in Prague and Vienna. Charles eventually became the superintendent at a large distillery and yeast production facility in Hungary and then sought a new life in America, after attending his sister’s wedding in New York City.

Unlike Europeans, Americans at this time believed homemade bread was superior to anything made by local, commercial bakers. In addition, because baking conditions varied greatly from bakery to bakery, maintaining uniformity of yeast mixtures was difficult and resulted in breads that lacked quality and consistency.

This all changed when Fleischmann’s introduced

a closer look

America’s first commercially produced compressed yeast cake in 1868. This revolutionary product allowed for greater leavening power and more uniform dough fermentation, resulting in better tasting and higher quality bread.

After successfully exhibiting the benefits of their yeast at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876, the public took notice and acceptance of commercially produced bread became commonplace. Demand skyrocketed and baked goods became part of everyday American life.

Nearly 150 years later, the Fleischmann’s name lives on at AB Mauri and its catalog of traditional and innovative products is helping today’s commercial and artisanal bakers feed the world, one loaf of bread at a time. Whether you’re making one roll or 1,000, Fleischmann’s Yeast is still the name to turn to after all these years.

A wide variety of Fleischmann’s yeasts are certified kosher. Adherence to cleanliness, purity and quality is a hallmark of our brands and our commitment to both customers and consumers. We are proud to carry OK Kosher certification, one of the most-trusted and well-recognized certifications in the food industry.

As you gather with family and friends this holiday season over meals, it’s a great time to remember all of the customs passed down from generation to generation and know that it’s never too late to start a tradition of your own.

What is Xanthan gum?

Rabbi Sholom Ber Hendel

Xanthan gum is a white to tan colored powder used in many food products. It is commonly used in condiments such as salad dressings and sauces, jams and fruit fillings to add viscosity and help stabilize the products by preventing ingredients, such as oils, from separating from the mixture. It is also used in ice cream to keep the texture smooth and prevent the formation of ice crystals. Xanthan gum can be used as a gluten replacement as it helps give gluten free dough a sticky consistency.

HOW IS XANTHAN GUM MADE?

Xanthan gum is made from the fermentation of carbohydrates (sugars). The bacteria strain Xanthomonas campestris is fed with carbohydrate and metabolizes the sugars into a liquid solution. The solution is mixed with alcohol (ethanol or isopropanol) which causes the gum to separate from the water. The gum is then rinsed, dried and ground. The carbohydrate used for the xanthan gum can be derived from cane sugar, lactose (dairy), corn or wheat. In the United States, xanthan gum is most often derived from corn because it is a cheap, subsidized crop. However, because corn is typically GMO, other types of carbohydrate are used in the USA to make non-GMO xanthan gum. In South America, cane sugar is often used due to the low sugar prices, while in Europe wheat sweeteners are commonly used.

IS XANTHAN GUM KOSHER?

Every fermentation process causes kosher concerns due to the ingredients that are used to make the fermentation more effective. The alcohol is also a kosher concern. Ethanol can be derived from grapes (non-kosher), lactose (dairy), wheat and barley (chometz). The ~ recommends using only Xanthan gum with a reliable kosher certification.

A.P. ORGANICS LIMITED

INDIA

Rice Bran Oil

ABELES & HEYMANN, LLC

NEW JERSEY

Meat Products

AC IMPORTS

NORTH CAROLINA

Coffee

AGRANA ROMANIA SA

ROMANIA

Sugar & Molasses

ALCOHOLES DEL ITSMO, SA

PANAMA

Ethyl Alcohol

ALIMENTOS NARANJA

VERDE LTDA

COLOMBIA

Dried Fruits

ALIMENTOS SELECTOS S.A.

GUATEMALA

Macadamias

ALKA WATER

PUERTO RICO

Water

ALLANN BROS. COFFEE INC.

OREGON

Coffee

AMEVA FINE FOOD EUROPE

LTD.

BULGARIA

Canned Vegetables

AMIRA BASMATI RICE GMBH

EUR

GERMANY

Rice

ANHUI HUAXIN PERFUME CO., LTD.

CHINA

Essential Oils

ARIEL GLATT KOSHER

MARKET

CALIFORNIA

Grocery

AROMATICS INC.

WASHINGTON

Tea Leaves

ATHENA BRANDS DBA GREEN

MUSTACHE

Organic Smoothies

B&H GRILL CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

BALTIC DAIRY BOARD LTD.

LATVIA

Dairy Products

BIBI’S BAKERY & CAFÉ

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

BIG “J” MILLING & ELEVATOR CO., INC.

UTAH

Flour Blends

BIONEUTRA FOFIBER

BIOLOGICAL & SCIENCE

(ZHAOQING) CO. LTD.

CHINA

Enzymes

BIONEUTRA NORTH

AMERICA

CANADA

Sweetener

BIOPROX

FRANCE

Cultures & Probiotics

BLACK DIAMOND FOODS

CALIFORNIA

Beverages & Baking Supplies

BLISS UNLIMITED LLC

OREGON Ice Cream

BLOMMER CHOCOLATE CO.

CALIFORNIA

Chocolates

BOBBYSUE’S NUTS! LLC

NEW YORK

Flavored Nuts

BOB’S RED MILL

OREGON

Oats

BOW AND ARROW FOODS LLC

COLORADO

Corn Products

BRICKSTONE GROUP INC.

DBA LORD DE PASTRY

Pastries

BRINSA

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Salt

BROOKLYN COOKIE COMPANY

NEW YORK

Meringue Cookies

BROWN & HALEY

Snack Foods

BTSA BIOTECNOLOGIES

APLICADAS, SL

SPAIN

Antioxidants

BUSHMILLS DISTILLERY

IRELAND

Irish Whiskey

BUSINESS INTERNATIONAL

GARLIC

SPAIN

Garlic

BY THE WAY BAKERY

NEW YORK

Gluten Free Baked Goods

CA CATERING

CALIFORNIA

Caterer

CHAMPAWAT BIOTECH PVT.

LTD.

INDIA

Vitamins

CHEF ROBERTS, INC.

CALIFORNIA

Fruit Snacks

CHEVRON PHILLIPS

CHEMICALS INT. NV

BELGIUM

Lubricants

CHICK N CHOW

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

CHINO VALLEY RANCHERS

CALIFORNIA

Eggs

CHOCO FINESSE LLC

INDIANA

Confectionaries

CHOCOLATERIE DE

BOURGOGNE

FRANCE

Chocolates

CHUCKANUT BAY FOODS

WASHINGTON

Cakes & Desserts

CITRUS DISTILLERS

FLORIDA

Alcoholic

CLEAN

INDIA

Specialy

COATINGS

CORPORATION

NORTH

Coatings

COCOTANA

PRODUCTS

SRI

Coconut

CORPORACION

ECUADOR

COTTERELL

GERMANY

Cocoa Products

COURVOISIER SAS

FRANCE

XO

COUSINS

CALIFORNIA

Hummus

CREATIVE

CALIFORNIA

Nutritional Bars

CREATIVE

CALIFORNIA

Flavors

CULINARY

CALIFORNIA

Spices

CV.

SEJATI

INDONESIA

Bleaching Earth

DAELIM

Plasticizers

DALTON

ITALY Cultures

DARIGOLD WASHINGTON

DAUPER INDUSTRIA E COMERCIO DE BISCOITOS SA

BRAZIL

Cookies & Granola

DECO & OTTO

FLORIDA

Cheese

DELICE BAKERY

CALIFORNIA

Bakery

DITMAS KITCHEN & COCKTAIL

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

DRIFTWOOD DAIRY

CALIFORNIA

Dairy Products

DYLA, LLC

NEW JERSEY

Beverages

EINHORN’S EPIC COOKIES

NEW YORK

Cookies

ELEGANT EVENTS

CALIFORNIA

Caterer

ELITE CUISINE

CALIFORNIA

Caterer

EMMI SCHWEIZ AG

SWITZERLAND

Milk Products

ERBAK ULUDUG A.S.

TURKEY

Beverages

ESSENTIAL FLAVORS & FRAGRANCES

CALIFORNIA

Flavors, Fragrances, Extracts & Blends

ESTABLECIMIENTO OLIVUM

SA

ARGENTINA

Olive Oil

FAIRFAX FISHERY

Fish Products

FELBRO FOOD PRODUCTS

CALIFORNIA

Food Service Ingredients

FINCA LA GRAMANOSA

SPAIN

Olive Oil

FISH GRILL (BEVERLY)

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

FISH GRILL (MALIBU) CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

FISH GRILL (PICO)

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

FLAGMAN SEAFOOD LLC

UKRAINE

Smoked Fish

FLAVOR PRODUCERS INC.

CALIFORNIA

Flavors

FLEX FILMS

Packaging

FREEZE DRY FOODS INC.

NEW YORK

Freeze Dried Fruits

FRESHMIX BEVERAGE

FLORIDA

Vodka

FRESHPRO FOOD

NEW JERSEY

Cut Fruits & Vegetables

FRUIT NATION COMPANY

EGYPT

Frozen Fruits & Vegetables

FUJIAN LIXING FOOD CO., LTD.

CHINA

Freeze Dried Fruits & Vegetables

FUJIAN LUBAO FOOD GROUP CO., LTD.

CHINA

Canned Vegetables

FUJIAN ORIENTLAND FOODS CO., LTD.

CHINA

Dehydrated Fruits & Vegetables

FUPING ZHONGLU FRUIT & VEGETABLE JUICE CO. LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

GARANTIE AVANTAGE

DISTRIBUTION

FRANCE

Baked Goods

GARCIA BAQUERO

SPAIN

Whey Products

GFF, INC.

CALIFORNIA

Salad Dressings & Mayo

GINGER TIPPLE

BELGIUM

Ginger Beverages

GLATT WESTERN KOSHER

CALIFORNIA

Grocery

GLOBAL FARMS

ENTERPRISES INC.

CALIFORNIA

Fresh Garlic, Ginger, Shallots

GOURMET NUTS & DRIED

FRUIT LLC

NEW JERSEY

Nuts & Dried Fruit

GREENFIELD BIO

PLANTATIONS (PVT) LTD

SRI LANKA

Tea & Herb Products

GULJAG INDUSTRIES

LIMITED

INDIA

Chemicals

HADA INTERNATIONAL S.A.

COLOMBIA

Soap Products

HALFTIME GRILL

NEW YORK

Sports Bar

HARINAS Y SEMOLAS DEL

NOROESTE S.A. (HASENOSA)

SPAIN

Gluten Free Crumbs

HARTYBAKE - BAKING WITH

HEART

GEORGIA

Waffles

HEALTHY NATURAL

TEXAS

Powdered Drink Mixes

HEBEI SDIC ZHONGLU FRUIT & VEGETABLE JUICE CO. LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

HEBEI SUSUKANG FOOD

TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

CHINA

Soy Products

HERO NUTRITIONAL FOOD

INDUSTRIES

EGYPT

Jams & Juices

HEXX CHOCOLATE

NEVADA

Chocolates

HILLANDALE FARMS EAST

DBA NEARBY EGGS

PENNSYLVANIA

Eggs

HOLY FRIJOLES

CALIFORNIA

Food Truck

HONEYVILLE FOOD PRODUCTS, INC.

Grain Products

HUZHOU ZHANWANG

PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD.

CHINA

Pharmaceuticals

ICAM SPA

ITALY

Chocolates

INDUSTRIA E COMERCIO DE

CREMES DA AMAZONIA LTDA

BRAZIL

Frozen Fruit Products

INGENIO LA UNION

GUATEMALA

Sugar

INTEGRATED FOOD SERVICE

CALIFORNIA

Pizza Dough

INULINA Y MIEL DE AGAVE

S.A. DE C.V.

MEXICO

Agave, Stevia & Chia

ION EXCHANGE

INDIA

Chemicals

JACQUES TORRES

MANUFACTURING

NEW YORK

Chocolates

JAINSONS AGROCHEM

INDUSTRIES

INDIA

Guar Gum Powder

JARROW INDUSTRIES

CALIFORNIA

Neutraceuticals

JD ALMOND FARMS INC.

CALIFORNIA

Almonds

JEFF’S GOURMET SAUSAGE

FACTORY

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

JET FOODS

FLORIDA

Spices & Seasonings

JIANGSU XIXIN VITAMIN CO., LTD.

CHINA

Vitamins

JINGYANG YIKE FRESH FRUIT JUICE CO. LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

JOY SNACKS

NEW YORK

Snack Products

JUST COOK FOODS LLC

CALIFORNIA

Spice Blends

KALLE USA, INC.

ILLINOIS

Sausage Casings

KASHI HUIYUAN TAOTAO

FRUITS CO.,LTD

CHINA

Juice Concentrates

KDIS - KOSHER

DISTRIBUTION

FRANCE

Lemon & Lime Juice

KLING ZAK INDUSTRIES INC.

NEW YORK

Table Covers

KOSHER PIZZA STATION

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

LA BREA BAGEL

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

LA BREA KOSHER MARKET

CALIFORNIA

Grocery

LA BURGER BAR

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

LANCO DAIRY FARMS CO-OP

LLC

MARYLAND

Dairy Products

LECOQ CUISINE CORP

Frozen Pastries

LIANYUNGANG JINKANG

PHARMACEUTICAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD

CHINA

Food Additives

LIAONING SDIC ZHONGLU

FRUIT JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

LIAONING YINGHE AROMA CHEMICAL COMPANY LTD.

CHINA

Ethylene Brassylate

LIEDER’S TAKE-OUT & CATERING

CALIFORNIA

Caterer

LILY OF THE DESERT

TEXAS

Aloe Vera

LINDEN COOKIES INC.

NEW YORK Cookies

LINYI DSIC ZHONGLU FRUIT JUICE COMPANY LIMITED

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

LITTLE BIRD

NEW YORK

Candied Jalapenos

LLC MALBI FOODS

UKRAINE

Chocolates

LONGHAI SHIQIANG FREEZEN FOOD CO., LTD.

CHINA

Soybean Products

LOVE YOUR HEALTH

MICHIGAN

Nut Products

LTI INC.

WASHINGTON

Tanker Transport

LUCTA GRANCOLOMBIANA

SAS

COLOMBIA

Flavors

LUDFORD’S

CALIFORNIA

Fruit Juices

LUDWIG WEINRICH GMBH & CO. KG

GERMANY

Liquid Chocolate

M&Z ENTERPRISE, LLC

NEW JERSEY

Snack Foods

M. AKKERMAN LTD.

ISRAEL

Whiskey

MADYSON’S

MARSHMALLOWS

UTAH

Marshmallows

MAIN HOUSE BBQ

NEW YORK

Restaurant

MANISCHEWITZ

NEW JERSEY

Snack Products

MARUMO AOKI MISO SHOYU

JOZOJO CO., LTD.

JAPAN

Miso

MED STARLINE GLOBAL GIDA

MAD SAN V

TURKEY

Pistachios

MEDITERRANEAN CHEF

NEW JERSEY

Dips & Salads

MENDOCINO FOODS INC.

CALIFORNIA

Mustard

MERIT FOOD PRODUCTS CO.

LTD.

THAILAND

Coconut Products

MERRYGO SPIRITS LLC

Vodka

MIAMI BEACH CHOCOLATES

FLORIDA

Chocolates

MIDNIGHT MADNESS

DISTILLING

PENNSYLVANIA

Alcoholic Beverages

MIMI’S SWEETS LLC

NEW YORK

Candies

MISSISSIPPI BLUE RICE

MISSISSIPPI

Rice

MIX1 LIFE

ARIZONA

Protein Shakes

MM NY HOLDINGS INC. DBA

PIECE OF VELVET

NEW YORK

Cakes

MOBEEUS DBA BEVERLY

ELITE CAFÉ

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

MOUNT OLIVE GOURMET

FOODS

CALIFORNIA

Falafel

MS BIO CO., LTD

SOUTH KOREA

Seaweed

MUNCHIES

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

NAGILA PIZZA & MEATING

PLACE

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

NAPOLI KOSHER PIZZA

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

NATIONAL FOOD TRADING CORP.

NEW JERSEY

Peach Slices

NATURACEITES, SA

GUATEMALA

Sugar Products

NESTLE DE COLOMBIA

COLOMBIA

Biscuits

NEW YORK GLATT KOSHER

CATERERS

NEW YORK

Caterer

NEWBY TEAS OVERSEAS PVT

LTD

INDIA

Tea Products

NEWPORT FLAVOURS & FRAGRANCES/NATURE’S

FLAVORS/SELECT TEA

CALIFORNIA

Flavors

NO. 3 PROCESSING PLANT OF TAI’AN TAISHAN ASIA FOOD CO., LTD.

CHINA

Frozen Vegetables

NOOUR INC.

CALIFORNIA

Dates

NOVITAS NUTRITIONALS

UTAH

Toco Trienol

OLYMPUS ORGANICS

UTAH

Botanicals

ONIBRAS PRODUTOS

QUIMICOS LTDA - EPP

BRAZIL Chemicals

ORANGE DELITE & GRILL

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

OREGON ICE CREAM

OREGON

Ice Cream

ORGANIC WELLNESS

PRODUCTS PVT LTD

INDIA

Herbal Supplements

ORGANICALLY RAW, LLC

FLORIDA

Nutritional Bars

OUR DAILY BREAD

NEW YORK

Gluten Free Baked Goods

OWOKS SUSHIMY

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

PACIFIC GRAIN & FOODS

CALIFORNIA

Nuts & Seeds

PACIFIC KOSHER GRILL

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

PACIFIC KOSHER

RESTAURANT

CALIFORNIA Restaurant

PALERMO BAKERY

NEW JERSEY

Baked Goods

PANNA & POMODORO, SL

SPAIN

Pizza Base Products

PARKER MAPLE FARMS

NEW YORK

Maple Syrup Products

PARVELLA INTERNATIONAL

S.R.L

ITALY

Parve Chocolate Spread

PEARL VALLEY SPECIALTY

EGG PRODUCTS INC.

ILLINOIS Eggs

PHARMASCIENCE INC.

CANADA

Fluoride Tablets

PICO CAFÉ

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

PICO GLATT KOSHER MARKET

CALIFORNIA

Grocery

PICO KOSHER DELI

CALIFORNIA Restaurant

PIZZA MAYVEN

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

PIZZA WORLD

CALIFORNIA Restaurant

PLATINUM CATERING

CALIFORNIA

Caterer

PLEASANT GROVE FARMS/ SILLS FARM INC.

CALIFORNIA

Beans, Wheat & Popcorn

PLYNROZ AS SLOVAKIA

Alcoholic Beverages

POLAR FOODS

CANADA

Flax Oil

POLIT FARMS

CALIFORNIA

Rice & Beans

POPCORN COUNTY USA

NEBRASKA

Popcorn Seeds

POPPIES INTERNATIONAL

INC.

NORTH CAROLINA

Pastries

PRE MAZON LTD.

ISRAEL

Baked Goods

PREFER PRODUCTS BRANDS

MICHIGAN

Pita Chips

PRODUCTOS LUX

PANAMA

Vinegar

PROMENADE BAR & GRILL

NEW YORK

Bar/Sushi

PT. KAO INDONESIA

CHEMICAL INDONESIA

Fatty Alcohols

PUCHENG HAOLIYUAN FRUIT INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

PUNTO GOFRE, SL

SPAIN

Wafers

QST INGREDIENTS & PACKAGING

Liquid Smoke

QUALITY FISH PROCESSING

LANKA (PVT) LTD.

SRI LANKA

Fish Products

QUEENS BAKESHOP DBA

ALAN’S

NEW YORK

Bakery

R&R DISTRIBUTIONS INC.

K-Cups

RAPHY’S CATERING SERVICES

CALIFORNIA

Caterer

REEDSBURG EGG COMPANY

WISCONSIN

Eggs

RISVOLD’S INC.

CALIFORNIA

Fresh Salads

RIZO LOPEZ FOODS

CALIFORNIA

Organic Whey

ROYAL FOODS

MICHIGAN

Tahina

RTX SCIENTIFIC INC.

OREGON

Ice Machine Cleaner

RUSHAN ZHONGCHENG FRUIT JUICE CO. LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

SABIEDRIBA IMS LTD

LATVIA

Sardines

SABINSA CORPORATION

NEW JERSEY

Dietary Supplements

SABOREZA MEXICO

Flavors

SABR CHEMICALS GROUP

FLORIDA

Propylene Glycol

SALLY SHERMAN FOODS

NEW YORK

Salads

SALMON RIVER FOODS DBA

DREAM CHOCOLATE

IDAHO

Chocolates

SAMI LABS LIMITED

INDIA

Neutraceuticals

SAM’S KOSHER BAKERY CALIFORNIA

Bakery

SANMENXIA BAIJIALIDA

FRUIT & VEGETABLE JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

SANMENXIA LUCKY MORE JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Juice & Juice Concentrates

SCHNITZLY CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

SCHWARTZ BAKERY CALIFORNIA

Bakery

SEAFOOD IMPORTS, INC.

CALIFORNIA

Frozen Fish

SEBC SEBASTIAN MAGDA

POLAND

Vodka

SHAANXI HENGXING HEYANG FRUIT JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

SHAANXI SCIPHAR NATURAL PRODUCTS CO. LTD.

CHINA

Herbal Extracts

SHANDONG HONGDA BIOTECHNOLOGY COMPANY

LTD.

CHINA

Ethanol & Acetic Acid

SHANDONG KUNDA

BIOTECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

CHINA

Sorbic Acid Products

SHANDONG LULING FRUIT JUICE CO. LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

SHANGHAI DIAMOND GARDEN CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

SHANXI SDIC ZHONGLU

FRUIT JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

SHEANDRO LTD

HONG KONG

Olive Oil

SHEFA

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

SHILOH’S RESTAURANT

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

SHIRLEY BAR LIVING

NEW YORK

Health Products

SHUFERSAL LTD.

ISRAEL

Butter Products

SKOBLOFOOD LTD.

ISRAEL

Matzah

SMART FOODS

CALIFORNIA

Oils

SNACK IT FORWARD

CALIFORNIA

Snacks

SNP INC.

NORTH CAROLINA

Coating Materials

SPECIALTY ENZYMES & BIOCHEMICALS

CALIFORNIA

Enzymes

SPECRIGHT PROCESSING LLC

DBA SUNGISTIX

CALIFORNIA

Seeds & Grains

SUMMIT FOODS

OREGON

Dried Fruit & Pie Fillings

SUZHOU TIPACK CO., LTD.

CHINA

Shrink Bags

TAIAN SOLAR SUMMIT FOOD CO., LTD.

CHINA

Dehydrated Vegetables

TAIAN TAISHAN ASIA FOOD CO. LTD.

CHINA

Frozen Vegetables

TEQUILA LAS AMERICAS

MEXICO

Tequila

THANKSGIVING COFFEE CO.

INC.

CALIFORNIA

Coffee

THE ABSOLUT COMPANY AB

SWEDEN

Potato Vodka

THE BETTER BAKING COMPANY LLC

CALIFORNIA

Baked Goods

THE EGYPTIAN COMPANY FOR FOOD DEVELOPMENT (FARAGALLA)

EGYPT

Mango Nectar

THE FALAFEL SHOP

NEW YORK

Dairy Restaurant

THE GREAT AMERICAN

HEALTH BAR

NEW YORK

Dairy Restaurant

THE MILKY WAY

RESTAURANT

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

THE NUTTERY

NEW YORK

Nuts & Candies

THE REBBE’S CHOICE

NEW YORK

Herring

THE TEFF COMPANY

IDAHO

Teff Products

THESIZE SURFACES SL

SPAIN

Countertop Panels

THINK THIN LLC

CALIFORNIA

Nutritional Bars

TIANJIN ASO AGRICULTURAL

PRODUCTS IMPORT & EXPORT CO., LTD.

CHINA

Noodles

TIGERNUTS TRADERS, S.L.

SPAIN

Tigernut Products

TILLAMOOK COUNTY

CREAMERY

OREGON

Dairy Products

TOAST CAFÉ, INC.

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

TOFFEE TO GO, INC.

FLORIDA

Toffees

TRADALL SA (BACARDI)

SWITZERLAND

Dewar’s Whiskey

TRATTORIA NATALIE

CALIFORNIA

Restaurant

TRICKLING SPRINGS RANCH

LLC

MISSOURI

Cheese & Whey

UMPQUA DAIRY #41-62

OREGON

Dairy Products

UNDA LTD

LATVIA

Fish Products

URPRI GROUP

MEXICO

Paper Goods

VALFILM MG INDUSTRIAL

PACKAGING LTDA.

BRAZIL

Packaging Film

VICEL PACKAGING LTD.

CHINA

Cellulose Casings

VILLA SALES AS

NORWAY

Fish Products

VM NUTRITIONAL

UTAH

Dietary Supplements

VOPAK TERMINALS

SINGAPORE

Tank Terminals

VTMN JUICE LLC

NEW JERSEY

Cucumber Water

W PESQUISA, TECNOLOGIA E INDUSTRIA DE ALIMENTOS

LTDA

BRAZIL

Fruit Juices

WANRONG ZHONGLU FRUIT JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

WHISTLER NEUTRACEUTICALS

NEW YORK

Neutraceuticals

WORLD OF COFFEE

NEW JERSEY

Coffee

WORTHY FOODS DBA THE WORTHY COMPANY

CONNECTICUT

Fruit & Vegetable Blends

WRE CHEMICALS & PHARMACEUTICALS

UTAH

Glycerin

WYLDEWOOD CELLARS, INC.

KANSAS

Elderberry Products

XIA XIAN TIANYUAN FRUIT JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

XINJIANG HONGXIANG

TOMATO PRODUCTS CO., LTD

TACHENG BRANCH

CHINA

Tomato Paste

XINJIANG HONGXIANG

TOMATO PRODUCTS CO., LTD

CHINA

Tomato Paste

YANTAI XINGNONG JUICE & FOOD CO., LTD.

CHINA

Fruit Juices

YERGAT PACKING COMPANY

INC.

CALIFORNIA

Grape Leaves & Olives

YUNCHENG ZHONGXIN FRUIT & JUICE COMPANY LIMITED

CHINA

Fruit Juice Concentrates

ZARO’S BAKERY

NEW YORK

Baked Goods

ZHONGNING HENGXING

FRUIT JUICE CO., LTD.

CHINA

Juice Concentrates

ZSCHIMMER & SCHWARZ

GERMANY

Zusoplast

KEEpIng Kosher InPriSOn

BY LEIGH HERSHKOVICH

KKosher food is a luxury that in today’s day and age, we often take for granted. Though today one can reach the furthest corners of the world and find gourmet kosher food, there are some places—such as federal and state prisons—where kosher food is hard to come by. Until 2000, kosher food was considered an unheard of commodity in prisons, with government safety and dietary regulations making it almost impossible to attain. Even today, with the demand for kosher food in prisons higher than ever—well over 4,000 inmates throughout the country—and with government funding making kosher food available to a large amount of prisons around the country, it is still an uphill battle.

In 2000, the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act was passed, giving Jewish inmates throughout the country the right to receive kosher food. But for religious advocates working in the prison systems leading up to and immediately following this motion, the fight for kosher food was a constant struggle. “My job was to lobby for Jewish inmates and make sure they were getting the food they deserve,” shared a former employee of the Aleph

Institute in Miami, Florida. “We faced many legal battles in trying to bring kosher food to the mainstream. My job was to write formal complaints to the wardens, as well as the Federal Court System for each individual inmate that requested but did not receive kosher food.” The meals the inmates receive come precooked and sealed as per prison rules and for safety purposes. “Many of the inmates wanted kosher food because they believed it was safer—the kosher part was just an added bonus.”

Being a chaplain is not always, but often, a full time job. The job not only requires those in service to offer religious programs, guidance, and a listening ear, but also to stand as an advocate for the inmates. For Rabbi Yochanan Friedman, shaliach to S. Cruz, California, this is a job that requires his undivided attention for over twenty hours a week. “Most of my day in the facility revolves around visiting with the inmates. Some of them are death row inmates. They spend their days in remorse, trying to make amends for their mistakes. That’s what I am there to help with.” A large portion of Rabbi Friedman’s job is also spent securing and checking the kosher food that is brought into facility. “The food comes in prepackaged, I just have to make

sure that they don’t tamper with it in the process.” Kosher food is mandated by the central courts of California—if a Jewish inmate requests kosher food, they are required to receive it by law. In addition to three prepackaged meals a day, Jewish inmates are entitled to two kosher banquets a year, which are usually held before Rosh Hashanah and Pesach. “We hold a mock seder every year, and we teach the inmates how to daven for each Yom Tov.” Every morsel of food that passes through the prison gates must come sealed and prepared. Though the food resembles an airplane meal, the inmates are always overjoyed to receive it. “They believe it tastes better than the prison food. It also gives them a sense of peace, knowing that at least they’re able to keep one mitzvah.”

For volunteers at prisons and correctional facilities throughout the country, planning events for Jewish holidays begins months in advance. Everything from the food to entry permits must be approved in writing beforehand by the warden of any given facility. “I’d file the paperwork for every Yom Tov at the same time,” shared Mrs. Mussy Posner, who frequented a women’s correctional facility in Upstate New York for three years in a row. Mrs. Posner

would visit the facility for Chanukah and Purim to add a bit of light, joy, and spirit to the holidays. “Everything I brought had to be packaged and bought from a store. Homemade doughnuts were definitely not allowed. In my case, the warden and the chaplain of the facility were easy to work with. They saw how much of a difference it made to the women in their facility to celebrate the holidays.” Volunteers visit over three hundred prisons and correctional facilities country wide each year, instilling a sense of joy and happiness into the holidays. “Some of the women I met in the facilities had celebrated Pesach their entire lives, while some had never seen matza or heard megillah before,” Mrs. Posner shared. “It was incredibly special to experience the chagim through their eyes.”

For Jewish inmates across the country and throughout the world, the lobby for kosher food is about more than the right to a religious diet; it connects them to their roots and to a heritage that many left outside of prison walls. Even for those without a formal Jewish background or education, any source of Judaism has become something they fight for wholeheartedly. For them, kosher meals are about more than just what they consume; it’s about what it represents.

“Sealed With the Stamp of the Kohen Gadol”

By the Office of Trademarks & Licensing at ~ Kosher

בד ריאמ תב םירמ תמשנ יוליעל

Dedicated to the memory of Miriam bas Meir Dov, Mrs. Miriam Wudowsky a”h, whose dedication to the kosher consumer, through her service in the Consumer Affairs and Trademark & Licensing departments, was unparalleled.

The Talmud (Shabbos 21b) cites the first example of a kashrus seal: The jugs of olive oil used in the Beis Hamikdash for lighting the Menorah bore the seal of the Kohen Gadol.

The practice of marking food as a sign of kashrus dates back at least as far as the 6th century. According to archeologists, Jews stamped their dough with impressions of the Menorah when preparing bread, as a way for consumers to verify its kashrus. One such clay stamp was recently discovered in an excavation near Akko.

Of course, much has changed in the world since the 6th century; today there are no less than 1,500 kashrus agencies worldwide, each with its own principles and trademarked symbol. This means that kosher consumers look out for the kosher symbols to make sure that the

food they purchase for their homes and families meets their kosher standards and expectations. Likewise, food companies are well aware that the standards, reliability and familiarity of the kosher symbol on a product label are what determine its acceptability in the marketplace. We can be grateful to manufacturers for recognizing the importance of kosher, and for identifying their kosher standards by displaying the symbol in order to help make our kosher decisions easier.

~ Kosher’s commitment to maintaining the highest possible kosher standards and compliance without compromise is an integral part of our core principles and specialized practice. This is the guarantee our kosher seal represents to kosher consumers and we don’t take this responsibility lightly at ~ Kosher. Further, ~ Kosher re-

quires the companies we certify to place the correct kosher symbol (~ for pareve products, ~ D for dairy products, ~ P for Passover, etc.) on the product label, and this is checked on an ongoing basis by our rabbis and mashgichim. We are constantly vigilant, knowing that consumers rely on the ~ to ensure that only products certified by ~ Kosher carry our logo. During the course of over 80 years in the kosher certification industry, ~ Kosher has developed an advanced label compliance system, including digital systems, which help our customers maintain ~ Kosher’s stringent standards in an accessible, understandable, user-friendly way. From a food policy perspective, this system provides institutional checks and balances designed to prevent mistakes and misconduct.

HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Our foremost responsibility lies with the kosher consumer for complete transparency. Therefore, any time an error occurs, whether inadvertent or intentional – or a situation arises that could potentially create confusion – we issue a Kosher Alert as soon as possible to notify you the kosher consumer. If the product is not kosher or not kosher certified to ~ standards, the ~ will require an immediate market recall.

The ~ Kosher symbol is a registered trademark, and its unauthorized use is a violation of trademark laws. Our rights in this regard are enforced to the fullest extent of the law. The ~ symbol may not be used until a written contract has been executed with ~ Kosher Certification. The ~ aggressively protects the integrity of the ~ symbol through its Trademark and Licensing Compliance Department (to be addressed in a different article).

However, that protection cannot completely eliminate unauthorized use of our symbol, or of any other trademark anywhere in the world. Therefore, both domestic and international markets are continuously monitored for unauthorized use of the ~ Kosher symbol on a product label or website. In addition, an outside graphic designer who is designing new product labels, might copy or retain the ~ on the label of an uncertified product. This type of error will be discovered during inspections at the facility and is usually quickly rectified. It can also happen that a label will be printed with the incorrect symbol (~ D when the product is actually pareve, or vice versa). This also will be found during the inspection.

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN HELP PREVENT KOSHER TRADEMARK VIOLATIONS:

There are several “flags” which can prompt a consumer to inquire regarding the authenticity of the kosher symbol on a product. Some examples include the following:

1. The lack of a “D” or “Dairy”

2. A statement next to the ~ Kosher symbol used on products whose ingredient panel lists dairy ingredients. (Pareve products may bear an allergen disclaimer that they may contain milk, but this does not affect the pareve status of the product. When in doubt, please contact our consumer hotline.)

3. Obvious non-kosher ingredients listed on the ingredient panel.

If you notice any of these anomalies, or are unsure about the authenticity of the ~ on a product label, you can check our free ~ Kosher Food Guide app in the Apple App Store and Android Marketplace, or our website http://www. ok.org/consumers/kosher-food-guide/). Or you can always reach our consumer hotline by phone at 718-756-7500.

WHEN YOU CALL, PLEASE HAVE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION AVAILABLE:

• A copy of the product label

• The product name (as it appears on the product label).

• The brand name (as it appears on the product label).

• The manufacturer, distributor, or importers name (as it appears on the product label).

• The date code or production code information. (This information is usually ink jetted, printed or stamped on the product.)

Where and when the product was purchased. A receipt if possible.

Rest assured that we are working hard to protect our kosher symbol. Kosher without compromise is our focus. For comments: service@ok.org

~ Kosher’s commitment to maintaining the highest possible kosher standards and compliance without compromise is an integral part of our core principles and specialized practice. This is the guarantee our kosher seal represents to kosher consumers and we don’t take this responsibility lightly at ~ Kosher.

Mrs. Miriam Wudowsky, a”h, returned her soul to her Creator suddenly, on 8 Tishrei 5777. Mrs. Wudowsky faithfully served consumers for over 20 years, fielding kashrus questions, investigating unauthorized use of the ~ symbol, and managing the Mechiras Chometz for all Jewish-owned ~ certified companies.

Mrs. Wudowsky spoke to everyone, from colleagues to the most exasperating callers, with warmth, kindness, and patience. She developed a relationship with many consumers, who would call regularly to ask questions and enjoy a few words of conversation. As a colleague, Mrs. Wudowsky was an inspiration to all of us. She came to work each day with a warm smile, an encouraging word, and a dedication to the ~’s mission.

One of her colleagues, and a dear friend, Mrs. Chanie Rothman, describes Mrs. Wudowsky in a way that will resonate with all who knew her. “Mrs. Wudowsky was my teacher. We shared a lunch break for 18 years, where I learned from her every day! Mrs. Wudowsky showed up for life, front and center with a smile. She had a wholeness that spread out and spilled over all.”

Mrs. Wudowsky was first and foremost a dedicated mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was so proud of each and every one of her offspring and almost daily, when we greeted Mrs. Wudowsky, she would reply, “I get a mazal tov!” beaming and announcing the latest birth, upsherin, bar mitzvah, engagement or wedding.

Her passing is truly a great loss to all of us at ~ Kosher and we pray that her neshoma should have the highest aliyah.

~ Mashgiach Conference 5777

Cheese and MARINARA SAUCE Stuffed

Latkes & Salmon and GREEN GODDESS tuffed S

BY : SHIFRA KLEIN - JOY OF KOSHER MAGAZINE. SUBSCRIBE AT JOYOFKOSHER.COM / SUBSCRIBE

SALMON AND GREEN GODDESS STUFFED LATKES

The crispy potato latke, with the smooth fresh taste of salmon makes for a great combination. Green goddess dressing, a mixture of herbs and sour cream, adds color and flavor to this impressive latke.

SERVES: 5

SERVES: 5

INGREDIENTS

5 Idaho potatoes

1 Spanish onion

2 eggs beaten

1 tablespoon salt

BASIC LATKE RECIPE: CHEESE AND MARINARA SAUCE STUFFED LATKE

1 teaspoon black pepper

3 tablespoons of flour (optional)*

* A note about the flour: flour helps the latkes obtain a firmer consistency, but it isn’t necessary for the taste and presentation of latkes.

DIRECTIONS

Grate the potatoes and onions using a food processor or hand grater. Add eggs, salt and pepper to mixture. Then add flour (optional).

In a large frying pan, heat ½ inch oil on med/high heat. It is important to make sure that the oil is hot enough to crisp up the potatoes but not too hot that the potatoes will burn.

Place a heaping spoonful of latke mix into the pan. The latkes should sizzle and crisp up quickly.

Place filling inside.

Top with another spoonful of latke mix on top of filling and make sure that the potato mix on top of the filling completely covers the filling.

Flip over and fry for about a minute. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Our version of mozzarella sticks... latke style. A gooey, cheesy center with a hint of basil surrounded by crispy potatoes is a spectacular Chanukah treat.

SERVES: 5

INGREDIENTS

Basic Latke recipe

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

10 fresh basil leaves (optional)

1 jar favorite marinara sauce

DIRECTIONS

1 Place a spoonful of latke mix into hot pan with oil.

2 Place a basil leaf on latke.

3 Place a bit less than a tablespoon of mozzarella on top of basil leaf.

4 Top with latke mix.

5 Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side.

INGREDIENTS

1 Basic Latke recipe

1 6-ounce salmon fillet thinly sliced

1 6-ounce package of baby spinach

1 cup basil

½ cup dill

½ cup parsley

1 cup sour cream or yogurt (use pareve sour cream or soy yogurt for meat meals)

¼ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup lemon juice

3 cloves garlic

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

DIRECTIONS

1 Start with your Basic Latke recipe. In a large frying pan heat about ½ inch of oil on medium/high heat.

2 Place a heaping spoonful of latke mix into pan.

3 Place a slice of salmon into latke mix.

4 Top with another spoonful of latke mix.

5 Flip over and fry for one minute.

6 Serve hot with green goddess dressing.

To make the green goddess dressing; blend spinach, basil, dill, parsley, sour cream or yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper. Place in container until ready to serve.

WHO’S BEHIND THE ~

~

BEHIND

Interview with Rabbi Eli Lando

KS: Where did you grow up? Where did you go to yeshiva?

REL: I was born and raised in Tzfat, Eretz Yisroel in an English-speaking home. As a bochur, I studied in Lod, Kfar Chabad and at the Chabad Headquarters in NY. I received semicha from HaGaon HaRav Mordechai Shmuel Ashkenazi, zt”l. In addition, I also received my shechita ordination from HaGaon HaRav Yeruslavsky, shlita.

KS: What did you do after yeshiva?

REL: After yeshiva and shlichus to Russia, Florida, Mexico and Cyprus, I returned to Eretz Yisroel where I married my wife, Shterni (nee Friedland) and learned in kollel in Nachalas Har Chabad. After about a year I was approached to lead the local kashrus agency in Vancouver, Canada.

KS: What is your current position at the ~?

REL: I am currently the Executive Manager at ~ Kosher headquarters. In this role, I am charged with driving the future growth of ~ Kosher with a focus on corporate strategy and customer experience. Together with Rabbi Levy and the senior management team, we support and shape the overall direction and day-to-day operations of the ~. Our only goal is achieving the highest kosher standards, with total customer satisfaction for the benefit of Klal Yisroel!

KS: What prepared you the most for your current position at the ~?

REL: Judaism asserts that every soul comes into this world charged with a unique, positive purpose; therefore, everything is Hashgocha Pratis and each person is required to utilize his strength and skills to be successful in his own shlichus. My prior management experience, and the quality time spent in the field guiding companies around the world in obtaining and maintaining kosher certification have helped me develop a strong background in kashrus as well as Organizational Development/Leadership. In addition, my academic studies tied directly into the work I’ve been doing on the job. I must also thank the wonderful ~ Kosher team I work with; there is no doubt I have learned and I am still learning a lot from their experiences and support.

KS: What is best thing about working at the ~?

REL: Being in a position where our work helps individual consumers and communities in all corners of the world keep the highest levels of kosher. The opportunity to influence on a global scale and see the positive results, for me, is the greatest personal reward.

Rabbi Eli Lando

KS: How would you describe the ~ today?

REL: With over 80 years’ experience, ~ Kosher is at the forefront of kashrus, resulting in the development of advanced procedures, systems and worldwide operations. The ~ Kosher symbol is not just a logo; it’s a commitment to excellence, trusted by consumers around the world. We pride ourselves that, while we certify companies large and small across the globe, our kashrus is safeguarded on an individual company basis. Most consumers may not be aware of it, but it is Rabbi Levy’s unshakeable principles and impassioned desire to strive for the highest standards, along with his very experienced, dedicated team that make it possible for ~ Kosher to achieve its purpose. Come what may, we never forget our responsibility to kashrus without compromise.

KS: What’s something interesting we don’t know about you?

REL: While in Vancouver, I also pursued academic studies at Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia (ranked among the top business schools by organizations such as the Financial Times and The Economist).This was a three-year, part-time executive management program focused on providing professionals with skills and best practices to perform at the highest level.

KS: Can you share a funny or interesting experience you had working at the ~?

REL: Last year we signed a merger agreement with Kehilla Kosher of Los Angeles. As part of the merger, we have transitioned hundreds of commercial production factories and dozens of restaurants. As part of our commitment to the highest standards, we have visited each and every one of those establishments to ensure that they comply with ~ Kosher standards, and when necessary made the adjustments needed. Part of the transition process required mashgichim temidim at our certified meat restaurants in LA. Rabbi Teichman, the former head of Kehilla Kosher, had supported those standards and we have successfully implemented them. What was interesting is that several restaurants have decided that those standards are too difficult for them and chose to go with a different agency. I’m sharing this story as a small example of the kind of work that ~ Kosher does, and shows the difference that this agency is making in the world of kashrus.

“

What Other People Say

Rabbi Eli Lando

“ Eli Lando is a very talented individual who understands the intricate inner workings of kashrus, while simultaneously seeing the bigger picture. He works tirelessly to bring the highest standards of kashrus to our certified companies without any compromise on customer service. Eli does not shy away from difficult tasks and motivates our staff to do the same. We are blessed to have Eli on our team.”

Kashrus

Administrator

“ Eli is one of those special people that makes you want to say, ‘Yes, I can,’ to the most difficult challenges. Always positive and goalorientated, his pleasant attitude is contagious and his influence on ~ Kosher’s phenomenal growth is obvious. It is an honor and pleasure to work with him.”

Rabbinic

Manager

“ I’ve been working with Rabbi Lando for several years. Not only is he a great person to work for, but I have learned so much from him – from the way he works with people to his determination to find solutions. His guidance and professionalism is second to none and he has been a great mentor to me and a tremendous inspiration to all who work with him.”

Key Account Manager

Rabbi Don Yoel Levy

Rabbi Levi Marmulszteyn

Rabbi Yankel Wilschanski

www.chabad.org/therebbe/letters/default_cdo/aid/457514/jewish/Illuminating-the-World.htm The content in this page is produced by Chabad.org, and is copyrighted by the author and/or Chabad.org. If you enjoyed this article, we encourage you to distribute it further, provided that you do not revise any part of it, and you include this note, credit the author, and link to www.chabad.org. If you wish to republish this article in a periodical, book, or website, please email permissions@chabad.org.

By the Grace of G d On the eve of

Chanukah, 5741 [1980]

Brooklyn, NY

To all Participants in the Public Lighting of the Chanukah Menorah in the USA

Greeting and Blessing!

Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, recalls the victory—more than 2100 years ago—of a militarily weak but spiritually strong Jewish people over the mighty forces of a ruthless enemy that had overrun the Holy Land and threatened to engulf the land and its people in darkness.

The miraculous victory—culminating with the dedication of the Sanctuary in Jerusalem and the rekindling of the Menorah which had been desecrated and extinguished by the enemy—has been celebrated annually ever since during these eight days of Chanukah, especially by lighting the Chanukah Menorah, also as a symbol and message of the triumph of freedom over oppression, of spirit over matter, of light over darkness.

It is a timely and reassuring message, for the forces of darkness are ever present. Moreover, the danger does not come exclusively from outside; it often lurks close to home, in the form of insidious erosion of time-honored values and principles that are at the foundation of any decent human society. Needless to say, darkness is not chased away by brooms and sticks, but by illumination. Our sages said, “A little light expels a lot of darkness.”

The Chanukah Lights remind us in a most obvious way that illumination begins at home, within oneself and one’s family, by increasing and intensifying the light of Torah and Mitzvos in the everyday experience, even as the Chanukah Lights are kindled in growing numbers from day to day. But though it begins at home, it does not stop there. Such is the nature of light that when one kindles a light for one’s own benefit, it benefits also all who are in the vicinity. Indeed, the Chanukah Lights are expressly meant to illuminate the “outside,” symbolically alluding to the duty to bring light also to those who, for one reason or another, still walk in darkness.

What is true of the individual is true of a nation, especially this great United States, united under G d, and generously blessed by G d with material as well as spiritual riches. It is surely the duty and privilege of this Nation to promote all the forces of light both at home and abroad, and in a steadily growing measure.

Let us pray that the message of the Chanukah Lights will illuminate the everyday life of everyone personally, and of the society at large, for a brighter life in every respect, both materially and spiritually.

With esteem and blessing in the spirit of Chanukah,

This letter was written by the Lubavitcher Rebbe ztz”l, and is still so relevant even 36 years later. The words of a tzaddik are everlasting.

Spreading Light

By Rabbi Chaim Fogelman

In the Talmud (Shabbos 23:2), it is written:

Omar Rav Huna H’rogil b’ner (he who is used to kindling candles …for Chanukah or Shabbos) …will have children that will be Torah Scholars.

H’zohir (he who is carful) b’mezuzah …will have a nice house.

H’zohir b’tzitzis …will have nice clothes.

H’zohir b’kiddush ...will fill many barrels of wine.

Why is the word h’rogil (he who is used to) used in reference to the candles, and h’zohir (he who is careful) is used for the others?

In order to raise children that are talmidei chachomim, it is not enough to be careful (zohir) in performing the mitzvos. We need to be used to them (rogil) by constantly doing them and performing them with a flare and varemkeit (warmth) so that our children see us as a living example and emulate us.

IT SAYS THAT BY LIGHTING

CHANUKAH CANDLES, YOU WILL HAVE CHILDREN THAT WILL BE TORAH SCHOLARS. THERE IS A HINT TO THIS IN THE WAY THE MITZVAH IS PERFORMED. THE MITZVAH IS TO LIGHT THE CANDLES “AD SHETICHLAH REGEL MIN HASHUK” – FROM WHEN IT GETS DARK UNTIL THE PEOPLE ARE NO LONGER WALKING THE MARKETPLACE OR STREETS. TORAH

SCHOLARS DON’T WALK THE STREETS; THEY ARE YOSHEV OHEL THEY SIT INDOORS AND LEARN TORAH.

THE MOST TALKED ABOUT GUIDE FOR THE JEWISH WOMAN...

A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE FOR HOUSEHOLD HELP IN THE KOSHER HOME.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WORKING WITH HOUSEHOLD HELP. FREE!

GET YOUR COPY TODAY BY EMAILING

NEWS@OK.ORG