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Q. I believe that you had recently told me that rose water requires hashgacha. Is that correct? If yes, why does it need hashgacha?
A. Rose water is believed to be made by steeping the roses in water so that an extract leeches out, and then the water is distilled to purify/strengthen the product. Unfortunately, the primary production areas are in Lebanon and other countries where Mashgichim are not welcome, such that we are not aware of any Mashgichim who can confirm that this is the process and clarify whether there are any kashrus concerns. [It is worth noting that most rose water sold in the USA is not authentic rose water, but rather water which is flavored to taste like true rose water.] Accordingly, we are unable to recommend rose water (or orange blossom water) without hashgacha.