In preparation for Tu B'Shvat, the Torah and Land Institute publishes data on insect infestations, as revealed by tests conducted in the institute's insect laboratory over the course of several years.
The fruits found to be infected are:
Figs - 87 fruits were tested and an infestation of approximately 61% was found.
Dried dates - 302 fruits were tested and an infestation with 11% was found.
Apricot - Approximately 191 units were tested and 5% infection was found in the fruits.
Plums, cranberries and raisins - an infestation of approximately 2% was found.
Fruits that were not found to be infected:
Pineapple and papaya.
The Torah and Land Institute says that data analysis shows that insects breed wherever storage conditions are not good and the product is on the shelf for a long time. Therefore, one should try to buy good products that have been stored in places where there is a high turnover of fruit.
The data provided is from fruits packaged in bags for eating.
The institute notes that fruits marketed in bulk generally have a higher level of contamination.
Also, examining the location of the insects shows that there are external insects that come off when washed, and therefore it is highly recommended to wash the fruit in hot water before serving the fruit on Tu B'Shevat, which reduces contamination of the fruit.
Regarding the examination of the seven species:
Olive - If there are brown or black spots (not caused by pressure), or a small hole, open it with a knife and make sure it is free of blemishes.
Dates – If it is moist, check that the fruit is intact, and no further inspection is necessary. A dry date should be opened lengthwise: remove the pit and visually inspect both sides. If there are small crumbs or holes, cut off the affected area or discard the entire date. It should be noted that dates contain white crystals that are sugars and are not a concern for insects.
Raisins – soak them in hot water, after the raisins expand, stir the water, and check that there are no insects floating on the water. (The same goes for checking plums and apricots).
Fig – When it is dry, insects are present in it, and the test is very difficult, so it is best to avoid eating it. Those who are very concerned about eating figs should first wash the fig, rub it well on the outside, in every fold, and then cut the fig, remove the opening, and check the tissue. Any area that is darker or blacker than usual should be cut and removed.
Pomegranate – If the skin has holes or a dark color, open it and inspect it carefully. Remove any parts that are of concern. Be careful not to get aphids stuck to the fruit on your hands.
This year, Tu B'Shvat falls on Shabbat, and the Torah and Land Institute notes that removing aphids and scrubbing fruits from pests should be done on Shabbat eve, so as not to fall under the prohibition of a Boreh.
However, it is permissible to wash the fruit from sprays and dust on Shabbat before eating.
If an insect is found in the fruit, the insect site should be cut out along with a portion of the edible fruit.
And what about the strawberry test?
Unlike last year, this year there is disappointing news for strawberry lovers.
The institute notes that unfortunately this year the infestation of strawberries is very high, and some strawberries were found to have insects even after numerous washes, and even after scrubbing.
In light of this, this year - 2017 - it is not possible to eat strawberries.
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