The prohibition of eating insects vol.4 no.20
The Torah states "Do not make yourselves disgusting by eating any swarming creature; do not become defiled by them for they will make you (spiritually) insensitive"(Lev.11:43). The Torah prohibits three types of swarming creatures: flying insects, water insects and land insects. Besides the above mentioned restriction, it is possible to transgress another three to five other prohibitions by consuming insects.1
Some insects are actually permitted to be eaten. Certain species of locusts that are still identified by a small minority of Jews through a long standing tradition can be eaten by those who have that tradition. An insect that developed in a fruit and never left the confines of the fruit is permitted to be eaten. However, since it is difficult to determine whether the insect developed in the fruit or whether the insect entered the fruit, we generally assume that it is forbidden and hence the need for inspection.2
It is important to note that the Torah only prohibits insects which are visible to the naked eye . Insects which are only visible by means of a magnifying glass are permitted.3
One who wants to eat a fruit or vegetable in which he is likely to find insects should examine the fruit or vegetable to make sure no insects are present, even there is if no sign of infestation. The criterion for what determines the likelihood of finding insects in a fruit or vegetable varies from place to place. Therefore, even if in one geographical area a certain fruit is rarely infested with insects, in a different area it may be prone to infestation making it necessary to examine the fruit before eating.
Certain produce present an insect problem in almost all geographic areas, such as Romaine lettuce. Therefore, one should always carefully examine these vegetables before consumption. Similarly, old bags of flour, oats and other grain products which sit on the shelf for an extended period of time should be examined prior to consumption.4
Although modern agricultural techniques and insect spraying have reduced the infestation problem in many fruits and vegetables, one should still examine produce since these techniques do not totally eliminate the problem. In fact, in recent years it has been shown that certain insects have developed immunities to insecticides, which renders the spraying ineffective. As well, constantly changing government regulations affect the quality and extent of the spraying.
Recently several companies have marketed vegetables which have been grown or processed with methods designed specifically to remove the problem of insect infestation.
One should contact a competent halachic authority who can give guidelines to determine which produce needs examination and how to examine properly.
1) Chochmas Adam 38:1 2)See Yoreh Deah 84:7 3)Aruch Hashulchan 84:36 4)YD 84:5
