K A S H R U T . C O M_©

Insect Infestation Alert - Barley, Brown Rice & Quinoa Alert

February 28, 2020 from the cRc:

Brown rice has recently been found to have infestation issues, primarily on the East Coast. The cRc's checking has found that brown rice in the Midwest is free of issues. However, Carolina brand brown rice has been found to have infestation issues even in the Midwest. Consumers are advised not to use Carolina brand brown rice without a thorough checking.

December 16, 2019 from the Star-K:

BROWN RICE sold in the Northeastern USA has been found to be infested due to issues in the distribution chain and storage. According to our continued research, this issue is more widespread than previously thought. Affected batches were found in markets from NY to Maryland.

Our research is ongoing and we will issue updates as warranted. In the interim, we are recommending that consumers in the affected areas check all brown rice prior to use, using the following procedure:

• Place brown rice in a fine mesh strainer. Shake for 25-30 seconds over a light box or white paper.
• Examine the surface of the lightbox or paper under a strong light for any insect presence. Our research identified booklice and mites as the most common insects.

QUINOA has also been found to be infested for the same reason as brown rice. Quinoa in general seems to be more susceptible to infestation than other similar grains. The problem was mainly found in quinoa that had been stored for over a year (i.e., it had been packed more than a year prior). Quinoa packed within the year was generally not infested. Click for Star-K video demonstration for checking brown rice and quinoa.

However, due to differences in each company's date coding, we are recommending that all quinoa be checked prior to use, in the same manner as for brown rice above.

BARLEY (particularly Yoshon brands) continues to have consistent issues with infestation. Therefore, we are now recommending that all barley be checked prior to use. For Star-K barley checking instructions, click here

Insect Infestation Alert - Carolina Brand Brown Rice

December 2, 2019 from the Star-K:

STAR-K certified bags of Carolina brand brown rice with a best by date of September 2021 were found to be infested in Lakewood, New Jersey area stores. The infestation was traced to the distribution chain.
Consumers should not use this product.They are urged to return the rice to the store for a full refund.
Corrective action is being taken.