A Little Clarity – Halachic Questions via Text Message

photoDue to the space limitations of a text message, please note that it is particularly important to read carefully, pay close attention to the context of the question, and use the answers as a springboard for further study.

If you would like my phone number to submit questions, please leave a comment and I will send it to you.


Q: Does one say a bracha when tasting food to see if it’s still good?
A:  You would not make a bracha as long as it is a small amount.  Shulchan Aruch 210

Q: Is Ocean Spray canned cranberry sauce recommended?  It has a hecsher I don’t normally use.

A: Canned cranberry sauce is OK even without a hechsher

Q: I was over in the gas station Circle K [in AZ] and didn’t recognize any of the slurpee flavors. How can I find out what’s kosher?  Already tried the cRc Kosher app

A: Experience shows that the flavors displayed at Circle K can’t be assumed to match the actual product being used so you would have to check in the back with the help of an employee until you become familiar with the store.  The Vaad has a list of kosher flavors.


Q: How does one kosher granite countertops?

A: Counters technically do not need kashering at all since they don’t intentionally come into contact with hot food. It is nevertheless customary to kasher them in case hot food does touch the counters.  They can be kashered via irui (pouring boiling water on every surface).



Source: Rabbi Isaacs Blog

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