Hi --

I just got caught up with the 900 (!) emails that arrived while I was on
vacation.  I saw the thread on kosher markings, and just wanted to add (having
not read the thread thoroughly ...)

Kosher rules come from religious law and may or may not be sufficient with
regard to a milk allergy.  The major kosher certifiers, such as "OU", are
aware that people with allergies rely on their markings, but many smaller
certifiers are strictly in the religious business.

Hence, the fact that a 1/60th part of a recipe may have ACCIDENTAL milk thrown
in and still be marked kosher "parve" or "meat" is significant.  A major
certifier won't let that go through, but a small local one might.

I had a lengthy disucssion with a certifier a couple of years ago, and the
results are listed on my web site under "Kosher is your Friend".  I highly
recomment that you go look at it, since it explains kosher markings specifically
for those with milk allergy.

Tomorrow I'm off to call Kellog's and complain about the changes to Pop-Tarts...

--Beth Kevles
  [log in to unmask]
  http://web.mit.edu/kevles/www/nomilk.html -- a page for the milk-allergic
  Disclaimer:  Nothing in this message should be construed as medical
  advice.  Please consult with your own medical practicioner.

NOTE:  No email is read at my MIT address.  Use the AOL one if you would
like me to reply.