How should berries be checked?
• ANSWER: Blackberries and raspberries are coming in heavily infested. The OU, as of a number of months ago, no longer accepts whole or cut Blackberries or Raspberries as an ingredient in any of the products they certify. Pureed Blackberry or Pureed Raspberry products are acceptable Blueberries are cultivated by a number of companies in the US and these do not need inspection for infestation. Never-the-less they should be placed in strainer and thoroughly washed before eating. Wild blueberries (non-cultivated) would need checking for blueberry maggots (worm-like insects) because the bushes are not treated with insecticide How to Check Blueberries: Place blueberries on a white cloth or on white freezer paper under a good light. Look for holes or other indications that worms have possible penetrated the berry.
