[See also video posted yesterday on TLS] 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.

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 barley checking instructions, click here.