The Badatz Eida Chareidis has released a new logo which will appear on packages of its green vegetables grown under controlled conditions, those items prone to insect infestation.

In fact, there is nothing new as the packages under the badatz’s hashgacha have always called for soaking in soapy water, then rinsing under a stream of water. The same is true for other hechsherim and ‘gush katif’ products too, however, the Eida made the move to attract attention to the need to do this and not use the product directly from the bag. The Eida writes that its hashgacha only applies if one follows the instructions.

It is added at times insects may be in bags even if the product was grown under controlled conditions. In addition, the soapy water and rinse will remove pesticide residue to some degree, also a benefit.

The Eida and other hechsherim do have a limited line of lettuce for example that is “ready to eat”. Such items are obviously costlier and more difficult to find.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)