Flavoured Twinnings teas

Dear All,

At a recent community camp, a sign purporting to be from Kosher Australia was prominently displayed advising that all Twinning’s Teas were now acceptable. Kosher Australia issued no such advice and our previously articulated policy regarding Twinnings has not changed.

In accordance with the latest information received by us in writing from the London Beth Din:

· Flavoured Twinnings teas are only certified by the London Beth Din if the packet bears their KLBD Kosher symbol. Most of these varieties are only available in North America and Israel. They are currently working with Twinnings to extend the certification to further varieties some of which will hopefully be available in Australia in the near future.

· Despite our request for confirmation of various rumours, the London Beth Din would not provide us with an approval for any varieties of Twinning Teas other than for those bearing the KLBD Kosher symbol.

Twinnings teas are manufactured in a number of countries including the United Kingdom, China and New Zealand. The London Beth Din has not investigated all possible manufacturing sites. Their logo will only appear on those teas manufactured in the sites they have investigated and certified.

The local Australian distributor of Twinning teas has not been able to provide the information necessary for us to make an independent assessment of the kashrus of Twinnings teas currently available in Australia.

Unflavoured Twinnings teas remain acceptable in accordance with the general rule governing all pure tea leaves and bags - if no other additives are listed on the ingredient label on the packaging.

Best Regards,

Yankel Wajsbort
General Manager
Kosher Australia
direct tel: 03 8317 2502
office tel: 03 8317 2500 or 1300-Kosher
office fax: 03 9527 5665
www.kosher.org