PASSOVER - PESACH MARCH 2021 - NISAN 5781 - KosherQuest.org
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1 PASSOVER - PESACH MARCH 2021 - NISAN 5781
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
sell their Chometz for Pesach, but
Chometz on Pesach ................................................................................ 3
prefer to dispose of it instead. The
Kitniyos & Matzoh Ashira ...................................................................... 3 following are actual Chometz: bread,
Bitul of Chometz ...................................................................................... 4 cake, cereal made from wheat, oats
Consumption of Chometz..................................................................... 5 or barley, cookies, farfel mix, some
licorice, pasta, pretzels, rolled oats,
Selling Of Chometz ................................................................................. 5 wheat gluten, wheat protein. Some
Chometz She’avar Alav Hapesach ....................................................... 5 have the same custom concerning
Kashering Utensils .................................................................................. 6 beer and whiskey.
Erev Pesach That Falls on Shabbos ..................................................... 7 STANDARDS OF KASHRUS
Fast of the First Born .............................................................................. 7 With over 1,000 Kosher certifying
Eating on Erev Pesach ............................................................................ 8 agencies and individuals competing
Selected Laws & Customs ...................................................................... 8 in the Kosher certifying business,
it is expected that standards will
The Seder Plate ...................................................................................... 8
vary. While most keep to a basic
Mitzvos at the Seder .............................................................................. 8 acceptable standard, some do not.
Medicine .................................................................................................. 9 We still see gelatin from non- Kosher
Internet Sites ........................................................................................10 animals being used, (often listed
as “k-Gelatin”), corn syrup as an
Pet Foods ...............................................................................................14 ingredient in Passover products
Items that may be used without Passover Certification ............. 15 (with a long reference attempting to
Items that are reliably certified for Passover ................................. 23 legitimize it), carmine (from bugs)
used as red coloring, as well as many
Products to be cautious of for Pesach use ...................................... 29
other questionable ingredients.
New Products for Pesach and Updates............................................ 31 With the vast number of products
Alerts ....................................................................................................... 34 being certified by reliable agencies
Times to Remember ............................................................................38 and individuals, it would seem to
be much less tempting to allow for
CHOMETZ ON PESACH these lenient opinions to lessen
Chometz is any substance from one of five cereal our observance of Pesach. Additionally, some
grains (wheat, barley, oats, spelt, or rye), that establishments only offer “Kosher style” products for
contains leavening, caused by its prolonged contact Pesach, while the lenient word “style” is missed by
with water or other liquids. It is important to note many. Some food establishments offer a Passover
that Chometz/Se”or does NOT translate into “yeast”. taco bar, ham on Matzoh special and Passover
It refers to leavening: namely self-rising from a “challah”, among other things. The only protection
sour-dough starter type of process. The prohibition as far as the government is concerned is from
of Chometz on Pesach includes “Chometz Gomur” Assembly Bill 295, section 1329.29, passed in March
(unadulterated Chometz) and “Ta‘aruvas Chometz” of 1993. It states: “No person shall do any of the
(a mixture containing real Chometz). There are three following: Make any direct statement, either orally
areas with which we must be concerned when or in writing, display the words “Kosher”, “Kosher
evaluating Chometz. First, there is “Isur Hana’ah”. style”, “Kosher type”, “Kosher for Passover”, “Jewish”,
This means that one may not derive any pleasure or “Hebrew” in any language or display any insignia,
or benefit whatsoever from Chometz (e.g. feeding six pointed star, or other mark that might reasonably
Chometz to one’s pets, etc.). Secondly, a Jew may be calculated to deceive or lead a reasonable person
not own Chometz. This prohibition extends to to believe a product is “Kosher” or sanctioned by
possession of Chometz anywhere in the world (such Orthodox Hebrew religious requirements, if it is
as in a boat, office, mountain retreat, etc.). Thirdly, not”. Obviously one needs to be vigilant in carefully
there is a prohibition against having Chometz in watching for proper certification.
one’s possession. One must be careful to remove all KITNIYOS
Chometz, not sold, from their premises. Chometz
Due to the stringency of the prohibition of not
that was sold should, preferably, be stored in
eating Chometz on Pesach, Ashkenazic Jews, as
an inaccessible area. Jews may not leave unsold
well as many Sephardim, have developed a custom
Chometz in their possession on Pesach, even if they
not to eat kitniyos (legumes) on Pesach other than
do not intend to use it. One should be careful not to
for infants and under other special circumstances
send a package which contains Chometz too close
provided that the foods are prepared in separate
to Pesach, as it may arrive during Pesach. Due to the
utensils. Kitniyos includes beans, soy, rice, peas,
severity of Chometz many have the custom to not
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and corn among others: (see below). The Following are not considered Kitniyos, buy may
Sephardim, whose minhag (custom) require special checking for Chometz Grains Mixed
permits them to eat rice on Pesach, must be careful in: Anise, Carob, Chia Seeds, Coriander, Cottonseed,
to determine that the rice is additive-free. Many Cumin, Guar Gum, Locust Bean Gum, Safflower,
Sephardim have the minhag to check the rice three Saffron.
times, as well as to check for other grains that may
GOING AWAY FOR PESACH
be mixed in. In any case, open bins in stores should
not be used. This year, again, the Star-K Kashrus One must sell his/her Chometz regardless of where
organization is certifying Carolina Mehadrin Rice for they are for Pesach. This is the case even if one left
use for Sephardim on Pesach. home 30 days before Pesach and no one will be in
the house during Pesach. It is necessary to inform
Ashkenazim refrain from eating peanuts as well.
the Rabbi selling your Chometz as to the location of
However, this restriction regarding peanuts may
the Chometz and to your location during Pesach so
not include peanut oil (according to the opinion of
that he can know the proper time zones of selling
Rav Moshe Feinstein ZT”L.) Legumes are permitted
and buying back the Chometz for you.
for some Sephardic Jews who, for various historical
reasons, did not adopt this custom of refraining If a person leaves home before Pesach, within 30
from kitniyos consumption on Pesach. A reliable days of Pesach, the night before his/her departure
source of acceptable products following this should do a regular Bedikas Chometz without a
Sephardic custom is the Sephardi division of the Bracha and recite “Kol Chamira” over the Chometz
J.S.O.R. at (732) 531-4872 or WWW.JSOR.ORG (be found in the house. Note: Kol Chamira should
aware that a number of lists exist for Sephardim that always be said in a language that one understands,
are extremely misleading and erroneous). as this is not a Tefilla, but a declaration. The
alternative to an early Bedika is to appoint a
For this reason the Kosher consumer is confronted
Shaliach (messenger) to do a regular Bedikas
every year around Pesach time with a confusing
Chometz with a Bracha on the proper night of
array of Kosher certifications found on candy, jam,
Bedikas Chometz.
mustard and other products containing legumes. In
reality, these products are edible on Pesach by only A guest in a hotel, who has Chometz in the hotel
certain groups of Jews. Many, but not all, will state on the night of Bedikas Chometz should conduct
“Leochlei Kitniyos - only for those who eat kitniyos”. themselves as they would at home, performing a full
Some examples of this are sunflower seeds, canned Bedika with a Bracha. It is the minhag to carefully put
vegetables, halva etc. Every Jew, however, is out pieces of Chometz before beginning the Bedika.
permitted to derive benefit from kitniyos (such as It is preferable to empty a stocked hotel fridge of
pet food, glue, baby formula etc.). beer, cookies etc. before Pesach begins. If this is not
The following are considered kitniyos or treated as possible, minimally, the fridge should be taped or
kitniyos according to many opinions: Alfalfa Sprouts, locked shut. The guest should inform the hotel that
Ascorbic Acid (May be Chometz), Asparatame they do not accept responsibility for those items.
(Nutrasweet), Beans, Black Eyed Peas, Buckwheat, A guest for Pesach at a relative’s house should hear
Calcium Ascorbate, Canola Oil, Caraway, Cardamom, the Bracha from the owner of the house and then
Citric Acid (May be Chometz), Chickpeas, make his/her own Bedika in their room.
Confectioners’ Sugar with corn starch, Corn, Corn
Syrup, Cumin, Dextrose, Edamame, Fennel Seeds, BITUL (ANNULMENT) OF CHOMETZ
Fenugreek, Flax Seeds (Lindseed), Green Beans, During the year, any non - Kosher ingredients which
Hemp (unchecked), Hydrolyzed Vegetable Oil, are inadvertently mixed with Kosher ingredients
Kasha, Kimmel, Lecithin, Lentils, Licorice, Lucerne, may be Halachically (according to Jewish law) fit
Lupine, Malto Dextrins (Chometz or kitnios-derived), to eat. The reason for this leniency is that they are
Millet, MSG, Mustard, Peas, Peanuts, Poly-sorbates declared “Batel Beshishim” (annulled in sixty i.e.
(May be Chometz), Popcorn, Poppy Seeds, Pumpkin the Kosher food is at least sixty times greater than
Seeds, Rapeseed, Rice (Vitamins added may be the non-Kosher, thus making the non-Kosher food
Chometz), Sesame Seeds, Snow Peas, Sodium annulled). This rule is true regarding Chometz on
Citrate (May be Chometz), Sodium Erythorbate Pesach only if the mixture was made before Pesach.
(May be Chometz), Sorbitol (Could be Chometz if During Pesach, the laws of “bitul” are not applicable.
outside the U.S.), Soybeans, Soy Oil, Corn Oil, Soy, In other words, during the week of Pesach, if even
String Beans, Sunflower Seeds,Teff, Tofu (from soy), a tiny amount of Chometz falls into a large amount
Vitamin C (may be Chometz), Wild Rice, Xanthan of “Kosher for Pesach” food, it renders the food, as
gum (May be Chometz). NOTE: Flax seed, chia and well as the pot, unfit for use on Pesach. As in all such
Hemp seed are not actually kitniyos and can be Halachic questions, a competent Rav should be
used after checking for other grains. consulted.
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Note: Lactaid drops may contain Chometz. Couscous, Farfel, Licorice (when wheat
Therefore, they should be added to milk before is in the ingredients), Oatmeal (Instant,
Pesach to have the Chometz annulled in sixty times Regularm, Baby Cereal), Pasta, Pretzels, Rolled Oats,
the amount of milk, applesauce etc. Wheat Gluten/Wheat Protein, Yeast (Brewer’s).
CONSUMPTION OF CHOMETZ CHOMETZ SHE’AVAR ALAV HAPESACH
(BUYING CHOMETZ AFTER PESACH)
Since the prohibition of eating Chometz on Pesach
applies not only to Chometz itself, but to any Due to the severity of the “Issur” (prohibition) of
derivatives of Chometz or to any product that Chometz, Chazal reinforced the sale of Chometz
may contain Chometz, one should make certain with a fine. This fine was levied on any Jews who
that all food products that are bought for Pesach kept Chometz in their possession or ownership
should have a certification by a reliable Kashrus during Pesach. This is called “Chometz She’avar
organization or Orthodox Rabbi. Alav HaPesach.” Jewish law requires that if a Jew
owns Chometz on Pesach, no Jew is allowed to eat
HANA’AH (BENEFIT) FROM CHOMETZ
that food, even after Pesach. Therefore, we are also
During Pesach, we may not derive any sort of prohibited from buying in stores which are Jewish
benefit from Chometz. Therefore, Chometz may owned, if they have not sold their Chometz. It is
not be sold or used, even in business transactions important to note that although we may not buy
or as pet food. Even some cosmetics must be Chometz from such Jewish owned stores that did
Chometz-free. Generally, there is no problem with not sell their Chometz, we may purchase non-
the following products if they are not organic in Chometz food products from these stores. Only
nature, and do not contain any grain by - products: Chometz Gamur has this restriction.
Acne Aid, Mineral Oil, Baby Cream, Baby Oil, Eye
Some common products that one may assume are
Liner, Mascara, Rouge (Powder), Nail Polish, Talcum
Chometz, but are actually not, and therefore may be
Powder, Stick Powder Deodorant, and Vaseline.
purchased in a store that did not sell their Chometz
MECHIRAS (SELLING OF) CHOMETZ are the following: baker’s yeast, cosmetics, dry cake
“Mechiras Chometz” is the sale of Jewish-owned mixes, kitniyos, glue containing Chometz, ketchup,
Chometz to a non- Jew before Pesach. One must sell mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, medicine containing
Chometz which is in their regular home, vacation Chometz, maltodextrin, maltose, malt flavoring,
home, office etc. If one cannot sell their Chometz food coloring, flour, extracts, raw pearled barley,
through their local Rabbi, numerous sites on-line vanilla and vitamins/medicine containing Chometz.
will facilitate this transaction. This transfer of Rav Moshe Feinstein ZT”L, in his sefer “Igros Moshe”,
Chometz to a non-Jew is a legal and binding sale, states that if a Jew sold his Chometz for Pesach,
complete with contract. This sale is transacted and then kept his store open during Pesach
through a Rabbi, who acts as a legal agent to sell and continued to sell items of Chometz, one is
the Jew’s Chometz to a non-Jew. The Rabbi enters nevertheless allowed to buy from that store after
into an agreement with the non-Jew for the sale of Pesach.
this Chometz. The Chometz that has been sold must
A JEW MAY BUY FROM THE FOLLOWING
be placed in an area which is completely sealed off,
STORES IMMEDIATELY AFTER PESACH:
and must remain there throughout the holiday of
Pesach. One must be careful to inform the Rabbi if 7-Eleven K-Mart
they intend to be in a different time zone for Pesach. 99 Cent Store Nuts & More
They do not want to have their Chometz bought Albertsons, Petco, Petsmart
back if it is still Pesach where they are (i.e. overseas, Bev/Mo Ralphs/Kroger
etc.) If one leaves home within 30 days of Pesach Big Lots Rite Aid
and will not return before Pesach, they should Bristol Farms Sadaf
either check for Chometz the night before they Coffee Bean Safeway
leave or appoint someone to check for them on the
Costco Sam’s Club
regular night of B’dikas Chometz. If the checking
is done before the b’dikah night one does not say CVS Smart & Final, Smith’s
a Bracha. A person can sell all the Chometz in their Dollar Tree Target (California)
home before leaving and check only one room for Erewhon Trader Joe’s
Chometz. Regardless, a person needs to say the Food4Less Vons/Pavillions
Bittul (annulment) of Chometz at its regular time of Fresh & Easy Walgreens
Erev Pesach. Gelson’s Walmart
The Following Are Considered Chometz Gamur: Jetro/Restaurant Depot Wine & Liquor Depot
Beer, Bread, Cake & Cookies, Cereal with primary Jon’s Whole Foods
ingredient of wheat, oats or barley, Cream of Wheat,
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and all reliably Kosher certified stores are it on to the highest temperature setting for 15
fine to shop in for Chometz after Pesach. minutes, or until it gets red hot.
Reliably certified Kosher stores all sell their Chometz
Enamel glazed stove tops should be covered
before Pesach.
during Pesach.
Note: Rabbi Elmaliach, the Rabbi in charge of
Gas grates should be put in the oven for Kashering
Kashrus at Ben Gurion airport, reports that the
or torched.
stores at area D7 in the airport are clear of Chometz
She’avar Olav Hapesach. There is a restaurant in Glass-top stoves can be Kashered in the area of
the Ben Gurion airport called “Aroma Espresso Bar’’, the burners. They should be turned to high for 15
under Chug Chosom Sofer Hashgacha and it is fine minutes. The areas in between cannot be Kashered.
to eat there after Pesach. The other stores in other Some find it practical to change the entire glass top
areas of the airport had their Chometz sold but were for Pesach.
open on Pesach and continued to sell Chometz A non self-cleaning oven should be cleaned with a
during Pesach. Some poskim allow purchases from special solution, such as “Easy Off” and not used for
such establishments after Pesach, while some do 24 hours. After this time, it should be turned on to
not. the maximum setting for one hour. This will Kasher
(See AKO whiskey alert in the “alerts” section) the oven, but not the broiler.
The broiler pan cannot be Kashered, therefore, it
KASHERING is usually not used for Pesach. If the broiler pan is
(MAKING UTENSILS KOSHER) replaced, the broiler can be Kashered in a similar
fashion as the oven. If one desires to Kasher it,
Utensils that are used during the year for Chometz “Libbun” (glowing hot) is required (i.e. by using a
may not be used to prepare food for Pesach unless torch).
they are properly Kashered.
A self cleaning oven needs only to go through one
Cloth tablecloths (not plastic) and towels used year self-clean cycle. It can be on the shortest cycle of
round should be washed thoroughly and may then your self-cleaning oven.
be used for Pesach.
Many microwave ovens (those whose walls do
Surfaces upon which only cold Chometz has been not exceed 120 degrees during cooking) without
placed during the year, such as refrigerators and browning elements or convection can be Kashered
pantry shelves, should be thoroughly washed and by first cleaning them and not using them for
rinsed to prepare them for Pesach use. Surfaces 24 hours, and then putting a new glass tray, or
which are used for hot Chometz during the year, in cardboard on the bottom. Afterwards, a cup or bowl
addition, whenever possible must be Kashered by of water should be boiled inside.
pouring hot water on them. Surfaces that cannot
be Kashered (such as formica and ceramic tiles A barbecue must be Kashered with “Libun Gamur”
etc.) should first be cleaned thoroughly and then which includes torching any surface that food
covered with non absorbent material (i.e. contact comes in contact with, in addition to cleaning and
paper, cardboard or multiple layers of aluminum burning out the rest of the barbecue. In addition,
foil). the coals or lava rock should be replaced. Often, it is
more practical to purchase a new one for Pesach.
THE DIFFERENT LEVELS OF KASHERING:
A stainless steel sink is Kashered after it has first
Libbun Gomur - torching or making the metal glow. been cleaned, and then kept free from hot water
Libun Kal - heating the metal until it can burn paper usage for 24 hours. Then boiling water must be
on the other side. poured over its entire surface. Porcelain sinks,
however, may not be Kashered. They should be fully
Hagolo - dipping in boiling water.
lined with a tin insert, contact paper, aluminum foil,
Eruy Roschim - pouring boiling water. (Note: or a Pesach basin insert.
steamers usually do not work)
Dishwashers may be Kashered only if they have a
The general rule is that we undo as we did. If stainless steel interior. All racks must be changed.
something uses straight dry heat (i.e. bbq) we need After waiting 24 hours, run a complete cycle with
to torch it or use self clean in an oven which is the soap. All rubber or plastic parts must be replaced
same. Soup pots are used with liquid so they are as well.
kashered with liquid in boiling water etc.
Metal utensils that are used with liquid (soup pots,
TO KASHER: etc.) may be Kashered by first cleaning them, not
using them for 24 hours, and finally, completely
Electric range, first scour it thoroughly. Then, turn
immersing them in a Kashered pot full of boiling
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water for 15 seconds, followed by rinsing them in
cold water immediately upon removal. They should
EREV PESACH THAT
be Kashered one at a time. An alternate method, FALLS ON SHABBOS
particularly useful for larger pots, is to set aside the
Bedikas Chometz: Since Erev Pesach this year is on
pot for 24 hours, after which time it should be filled
Friday night, we cannot do Bedikas Chometz at the
with water and then be brought to a boil. A glowing
regular time. We therefore search for the Chometz
hot item, such as a rock, should then be placed
instead on Thursday evening, the 13th of Nissan
inside, allowing the hot water to spill over the sides.
(with a Brocho)
Braces, bite plates and retainers should be brushed
Many have the Minhag to place ten wrapped pieces
thoroughly before Pesach.
of bread or crackers and place them in different
Countertops that cannot be Kashered: Formica, spots around the house, before the search is
Silestone, Composite Stone and Corian started. After the Chometz is found, we recite Kol
countertops may NOT be Kashered for Pesach, and Chamira, as usual. Before the bedikas Chometz, any
therefore, should be covered. Chometz that we plan to eat on Friday or Shabbos,
should be placed in a secure container and put
Caesarstone countertops may NOT be Kashered
aside for this specific use.
for Pesach according to many opinions, as they are
composed of only 93% stone. Fast of the First Born: Due to our not being able to
fast on Shabbos, it is observed earlier. Once we are
Countertops that may be Kashered: Granite,
moving it Chazal moved it to Thursday (3/26) so as
Marble, metal, stone, or Stainless Steel
not to interfere with Shabbos.
countertops may be Kashered by pouring boiling
hot water (not steam) on them (Eirui). wood can be Siyum: Males who are first born and do not wish
kashered with sanding. to fast on Thursday should attend a Siyum in the
morning and eat at the meal following it. This meal
The following materials are subject to differing
is a Seudas Mitzvah and is generally held right after
opinions if they can be Kashered: China, Corelle,
Davening Shacharis.
Corian, Cork, Corningware, Duralex, Earthware,
Enamel Coated Formica, Melmac, Nylon, Plastic, Biur Chometz: The burning of the Chometz left in
Porcelain, Pyrex, Synthetic Rubber, Teflon Coating. one’s possession, including the Chometz found the
Some of the above are agreed upon that they previous night during the search, must be burned
cannot be kashered. Ask your local rabbi. by the end of the fifth hour on Friday morning (3/26)
at the regular time of Biur Chometz. Please see the
Note: STEAM CLEANERS often may not be used
time chart for the exact latest time. This is done so
for Kashering purposes, as Kashering must be done
that we will keep our habit of burning the Chometz
with boiling water (212F) as steam is insufficient.
at the correct time, even though, right after burning
Water filter - change the filter. the Chometz,, we will be able this year, to continue
KITCHEN ITEMS THAT MAY NOT BE eating Chometz Friday night and Shabbos morning,
KASHERED: until the time of the time of Sof Z’Man Achilas
Chometz. This year, the only difference is that on
Arcolac Plastic Friday day, we do NOT recite “Kol Chamira”,after
Bread Machines Porcelain burning the Chometz as we usually would, due to
China Porcelain Enameled our continuing to eat Chometz the next day. Instead
Colanders (plastic) Pots we will say it on Shabbos when we dispose of the
Corelle Pyrex remaining Chometz. This is due to the rarity of the
Corning Ware Sandwich Maker first Seder being on Motzei Shabbos, sometimes
Crockpots Silverstone only once in twenty years. (the last one was 2001).
Graters (any) Stoneware Selling of the Chometz: This must be done by
Knives with Plastic Synthetic Rubber Friday morning, Erev Shabbos HaGadol, 3/26/, no
Handles Teflon later than the time of Biur Chometz. Although we
Melmac Toaster/Toaster Oven will still be eating Chometz we do not change the
Mixers Waffle Iron time in order to be consistent with other years.
Pasta Maker Shabbos Meals: It is a Mitzvah on Shabbos to
These items should be washed thoroughly and be eat three meals, (one Friday night, one in the first
put away in a completely sealed off areaor container part of Shabbos day and one Shabbos afternoon),
until after Pesach. preferably with bread/Challah. This year, we are
caught in a quandary between two halachos. We
can only eat Challah until Sof Achilats Matzoh time.
We are not allowed to eat real Matzoh the entire
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day of Erev Pesach so that it will be special EATING ON EREV PESACH
for Pesach. .Therefore, it is not practical to
Consumption of Chometz is prohibited on Erev
have the food for this Shabbos HaGadol cooked in
Pesach, from a third of the day and after- this is
Chometz pots this year. The most efficient way to
usually counted four proportional hours from
deal with this situation is to prepare Kosher L’Pesach
daybreak (see times to remember). It is also
Shabbos meals in Pesach or disposable pots and
forbidden to eat Matzo or anything baked with
pans to be “yotze” these Shabbos meals There
Matzoh on Erev Pesach. This prohibition includes
are different ways to accomplish this: a.) The best
egg Matzoh. This is in order to ensure that one will
way is: After an early Shabbos morning davening,
eat the Matzo at the Seder with a “hearty appetite”.
one should immediately eat the first half of their
This prohibition includes cakes and cookies made
“split” Shabbos morning meal, by eating the regular
from matzo meal. However, cooked Matzo products,
Challah either outside the house or carefully in the
such as knaidlach (Matzoh balls) are permitted. Non-
house.without leaving any Chometz anywhere.
Gebrochts products are suitable for this time period.
Many prefer substituting egg Matzah for the Challah
All foods should only be eaten in moderation from
to avoid the issue with crumbs. The meal should
the ninth hour in the day and on in order to have
consist of Kosher L’Pesach food, served on Pesach
an appetite for the Seder. Imitation Matzo made
or disposable utensils and plates etc. (keep in mind
from Tapioca and Potato ingredients is fine for Erev
that on Shabbos we will not be able to wash any
Pesach.
utensils). One should then recite Birkas HaMazon
after that initial morning meal, get up from the SELECTED LAWS & CUSTOMS
table, create a Hesach Hadaas (psychological One should prepare everything (for the first Seder)
conclusion to the first meal). Then one should wash on Erev Pesach in order that the Seder should begin
again, and partake of the remaining Shabbos meal immediately upon arriving from Shul. This includes
with Challah, which will qualify as Seudas Shlishis setting the table, etc. (Note: we cannot prepare for
and conclude eating Chometz in the proper time. . the Seder on Shabbos) It is a custom that pillows
In the afternoon, one can eat fruits, fish, or shehakol should be prepared for leaning on during the Seder.
“Imitation Matzoh, usually made from Tapioca Women are not required to recline, however, male
starch, or cooked Matzah i.e. Kneidlach. etc. children are. It is also a custom among some that
An alternative, bedieved method is offered by R’ the head of the household wears a Kittel during the
Moshe Feinstein. On Shabbos morning, one may eat Seder. In most places, the custom is that only the
a regular Shabbos meal with Challah for the early head of the household has a Seder plate and the
morning and then have fruit or fish later in the day three Matzos. Some, however, have a Seder plate
for Seuda Shlishis (without Matzo). and Matzos for each man present at the Seder.
When only the head of the household has a Seder
Kol Chamira should be said, as usual, at the time
plate, he must provide for everyone at the Seder
of “burning/disposing of the Chometz.” Since it is
from his plate. Since there is usually not a sufficient
Shabbos and we cannot dispose of any left over
amount of Matzo, Marror and wine to ensure that
Chometz by burning, we discard it by flushing it
everyone present (male and female alike) has the
down the toilet, followed by the recitation of Kol
required amounts during the Seder, additional
Chamira.
Matzo, Marror and wine should be placed on the
If one does decide to eat Challah on Shabbos table for supplementary use.
HaGadol, Erev Pesach, the most practical plan is
THE SEDER PLATE
to eat it in the backyard to spread a disposable
tablecloth, plastic etc. and remove any Challah One may not use MARROR (to fulfill the Mitzvah
pieces during the meal from the table so as not to of Marror) that was soaked for 24 hours or
spread them around the house, necessitating a new longer. Soaking this long is called pickling and is
bedika Halachically considered cooking. One may only use
uncooked vegetables for Marror. (Do not lean when
Garbage Cans: If any Chometz is left in the garbage
eating Marror.)
cans that one owns (that could not easily and safely
flushed down the toilet), it should, preferably be CHAROSES can be made of ground apples, pears,
placed off one’s property, on the curb . Some feel pomegranates, dates, figs, walnuts, almonds, ginger
it is best to first spray it with something poisonous and cinnamon, to which wine is added. Recipes may
(like insect spray or oven cleaner) that will render it vary according to tradition.
inedible. KARPAS is any vegetable upon which a Brocho of
Helpful Reminders: Erev Shabbos one should roast “HaAdama” is made, that may be dipped in salt
the egg and zroah, check and clean vegetables, water or vinegar, and that may be used on Pesach.
chop nuts for Charoses and grate the horseradish, Parsley, celery, and potatoes are often used as
as none of the above can be done on Shabbos Karpas.
9
ZROA is a piece of meat which is roasted over the run all day without cleaning in between
fire. Most people use a chicken neck or wing for this runs.
purpose.
Matzoh Ashira is any Matzoh that contains products
BAITZA is an ordinary hard boiled or roasted egg. other than flour and water, such as grape juice or
If one forgot to roast the Zroa or Baitza on Erev apple juice. The consumption of Matzoh Ashira is
Pesach, and had to do it at night, he must eat the prohibited for most people throughout Pesach.
egg before sunset the next day. Included in this category are: Matzoh which was
kneaded with fruit juice, egg matzo, tea matzo,
THE ARBA KOSOS
honey and spice Matzoh and some chocolate
(FOUR CUPS OF WINE)
covered Matzoh. However, this prohibition does
It is preferable that the wine used at the Seder be not apply to infants or people who are ill. When in
red in color. For those who cannot drink wine, grape doubt, consult your Rabbi.
juice may be used (consult your Rabbi). If one must
Even one who is allowed to eat Matzoh Ashira,
drink grape juice the 64 oz glass bottles that say on
cannot fulfill their Mitzvah of Achilas Matzoh (eating
them Non-Mevushal are preferable. Nevertheless,
Matzoh) with it.
one should make every effort to drink wine at the
Seder. It is preferable to add at least some wine to Gluten Free Matzoh A limited amount of Oat and
the grape juice. Spelt Matzoh is produced as Shmura and regular
(non-Shemura) for those who cannot tolerate wheat
Each cup of wine should contain at least 3.3 fluid
Matzoh for medical reasons. One can fulfill the
ounces. It is preferable to drink the entire cup, or
Mitzvah of eating Matzoh at the Seder with such
at least half of it, for each of the four cups. Due to
Shmura Matzoh. More information concerning this
this one should not use a very large cup as this will
product can be found at www.Glutenfreeoatmatzos.
necessitate drinking a large amount for each cup.
com or call (732) 364-8757.
Men must consume all cups of wine while reclining
Gluten Free Shehakol “Matzoh Style” This product
on their left side. If one drank either of the first two
is made from tapioca with a bracha of “Shehakol”.
cups without reclining, he must drink again without
It has no relation to Matzoh other than artificially
a Brocho.
made to “look” like a Matzoh. Gefen and Yehuda
Note: Many Kosher wines (and some brands of grape Matzoh companies, as well as some others,
juice in the 64oz. bottles) are not cooked and state manufacture imitation Matzoh. This is an excellent
“Non-Mevushal.” Therefore, care must be taken as to product to eat Erev Pesach and any other time
who handles them. (Most bottles that are cooked one does not wish to consume Matzoh. (it is also a
say “Mevushal” in English or Hebrew on the label). wonderful imitation Matzoh that can be eaten out
Note: Many low-alcohol wines are now available. of a Sukkah since it is not real Matzoh). Obviously,
Some are pure wine while others are a mixture of this product cannot be used as a substitute at any
wine and grape juice as indicated. time for real Matzoh.
MATZO MEDICINE
Only Shmurah Matzoh (watched over from rising), Most prescriptions can be filled with Kosher for
which is made of grain that has been guarded Pesach medicine. For information on the Kosher
against fermentation from the time of harvest, status of your medicines, contact your local reliable
should be used for the Mitzvah of eating Matzoh at Rabbi.
the Seder. Both hand and machine Shmurah Matzoh Rabbi Bess of Los Angeles has compiled the
are acceptable. A person should own the Matzoh most detailed reliable list in the U.S. He can be
they are using for the Mitzvah. Over the past many reached at (323) 933- 7193. Rabbi Bess together
decades there have been many opinions given as with the Star-K publishes the Passover Directory
to the merits of hand versus machine Matzoh. Most with this information. Since some prescriptions,
use either one with proper Hashgacha. unfortunately, are not available with Kosher
Shmurah Matzoh has been watched in most cases certification, we will mention some guidelines for
from the time of cutting of the wheat to protect those who must take medicine on Pesach.
from unwanted moisture, which may make it rise. 1. If one suffers from an illness through which one’s
Eighteen minute Matzoh is run on machines life may become endangered, one may eat Chometz
that are cleaned every 18 minutes to prevent any on Pesach and may use any medication needed
possibility of the dough rising. to avoid a life-threatening situation. This Chometz
should be owned by a non- Jew.
Regular Pesach Matzoh has been baked on a
machine in under 18 minutes, but the machine will 2. If someone is ill, but his life is not endangered,
he may not eat Chometz on Pesach. However,
10
KOSHER NEWSLETTERS
Kosher & KASHRUS INFORMATION HOTLINES
Information Kashrus Conscience - Kosher Information Bureau
Rabbi E. Eidlitz, Rabbinic Administrator
Bureau 12753 Chandler Boulevard, Valley Village, California 91607
Phone: (818) 262 5351, E-mail: eeidlitz@kosherquest.org
Website: www.kosherquest.org
Rabbi Eliezer Eidlitz Publications - Kashrus Conscience Magazine
12753 Chandler Boulevard E-mail updates and alerts
Valley Village, California 91607 www.kashrut.com Arlene J. Mathes-Scharf
(818) 262 5351 Phone: (781)784-6890 Fax: (781)784-6890
eeidlitz@kosherquest.org E-mail: ajms@kashrut.com, www.kashrut.com
Chicago Rabbinical Council cRc
www.kosherquest.org 2701 W. Howard St. Chicago Ill. 773 465-3900
Vaad HaKashrus of Baltimore (Star-K)
Tax deductible donations can be made Rabbi Moshe Heinemann, Rabbinic Advisor
by check or paypal on our website. 122 Slade Ave Suite 300, Baltimore, Maryland 21208
(410) 484-4110 Publication - Kashrus Kurrents, Pesach Guide
KOSHER FOOD Kashrus Magazine: Rabbi Yosef Wikler, Rabbinic Administrator
INTERNET SITES P.0. Box #204 Brooklyn, New York 11204
kashrus@aol.com (718) 336-8544
www.kosherquest.org Rabbinical Council of California - The RCC
e-mail: eeidlitz@kosherquest.org 3780 Wilshire Blvd. # 420 Los Angeles, CA 90010
213-389-3382, 562-286-5235 Fax
www.wholeandnatural.com info@rccvaad.org, www.rccvaad.org
The O/K Lab
www.kashrut.com 391 Troy Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11213
(718) 756-7500 Info@ok.org
MEALS FOR TRAVELING:
The Jewish Diabetes Association
www.koshergourmetmart.com
New York Office: 959 East 26th St. Brooklyn, NY 11210
www.labriutmeals.com Tel: (718) 303-5955 Israel: 052-763-1500
(732) 370-0035 Email: Jewishdiabetes@aol.com
London Beis Din Hotline: 020-8343-6255
Chap a Nosh (516) 374-5100 www.kosher.org.uk General Enquiries 020-8343-6255
The Kosher Gram Vaad Harabonim of Greater Detroit & Merkaz
The Jewish Diabetes Assn. 17071 West Ten Mile Road, Southfield, Michigan 48075
(718) 578-4180 Israel: 054-732-867 (313) 559-5005
Orthodox Union - O/U Kosher Hotline & Passover Directory
www.koshermart.com
333 7th Avenue, New York, New York 10001
(212) 613-8241 Rabbi Menachem Genack
www.ohnuts.com
www.ou/kosher.org
www.koshervitamins.com J.S.O.R. (Sephardic List) Jersey Shore Orthodox Rabbinate
P.O. Box Elberon NJ 07740 (732) 531-0535
pico@westernkosher.com Rabbi Isaac Dwek - Deal Rabbi Isaac Farhi Deal www.jsor.org
Medicines & Cosmetics of Pesach by Rabbi Gershon Bess
Kollel Los Angeles 223 South Formosa Blvd., Los Angeles,
CA 90036 (323) 933-7193
Chodosh Hot Line – Rabbi Herman (718) 305-5133
Star-K product & medicine updates
www.passoverkosher.com
Jewish Heritage for the Visually Impaired will provide large-
print Haggadahs. (718) 338-4999 www.jewishheritage.org11
he may take Chometz medicine under certain blanchers, which are not usable for pasta.
circumstances as long as he does not take it in Bodek, Garden Pure, as well as others carry
the normal way (i.e. a pill without a cup of water). many frozen vegetables which are certified for Pesach.
A Rabbi should be consulted if the need for such
FRESH VEGETABLES
medication should occur.
In general, fresh vegetables do not pose a special
3. Generally speaking, cough syrups and other liquid
concern for Pesach. However, fruits and vegetables
medicines may contain grain alcohol, and may not
from Israel require that Terumos and Maasros be
be used on Pesach. When one must take medicine
taken. Leafy vegetables require the same level
during Pesach, his/her doctor should be asked to
of inspection for insects as during the rest of the
prescribe medicine without alcohol or capsules.
year. This is a particular concern for many who
Many over the counter medicines require no use romaine lettuce for the Mitzvah of Marror. To
special certification to be used on Pesach. Consult avoid this problem, some choose to use romaine
your Rabbi for specific questions. For a complete stalks only, which are easier to rinse and check for
listing of this year’s Kosher for Pesach vitamins (as insects. There are romaine lettuce stalks and other
well as year-round vitamins) go online to www. produce certified for Pesach that are not checked for
koshervitamins.com. Note: All Freeda Vitamins and insects. One needs to make sure that the Hechscher
FNP supploements are produced all year round in a covers both the Pesach and insect issues. This year
Chometz-free facility. However, some may contain additional care must be taken that no Shmitta issues
Kitniyos. See Freeda’s cite cs@freedahealth.com or exist.
call them at 800-777-3737 for more information on
SODA
their Pesach products.
When determining whether a type of soda is Kosher
TOILETRIES
for Pesach, there are three major ingredients with
Rabbi Bess lists the following ingredients as possible which we are concerned. They are: brominated
Kashrus issues connected to Pesach: vegetable oil, flavorings and sugar.
Amino Peptide Complex, Amp-Isostearoyl Corn syrup, which is made from Kitniyos, is a
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Avena Sativa Flour, common sweetener in soda. The other ingredient,
Avena Sativa Kernel Protein, Barley Extract, “flavoring,” is also a source of concern, since there
Beta Glucan, Disodium Wheatgermido Peg- are thousands of flavors, many of which are not
2 Sulfosuccinate, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Kosher, and others that are derived from Chometz.
Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten, Hydrolyzed Therefore, even Sephardim who normally consume
Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Kitniyos on Pesach should seek only those products
PgPropyl Silanetriol, Hydrolyzed Wheat reliably certified to be Chometz-free.
Starch, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed
Generally speaking, flavoring is the key to a
Wheat Protein, Oat Beta Glucan, Oat Extract,
product’s success in the food market. Therefore, its
Oat Flour, Phytosphingosine Extract,
formula is always a highly guarded secret of the
Prolamine, Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids,
company. Even a minuscule change in the formula
Stearyldimoniumhydrosypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat
of a product where flavoring is concerned can
Protein, Triticum Vulgare, Triticum Vulgare Flour
prove to be disastrous. Therefore, it is not surprising
Lipids, Triticum Vulgare Germ Extract, Triticum
that these companies guard their flavorings very
Vulgare Germ Oil, Wheat Amino Acids, Wheat
carefully making it necessary to have a Mashgiach
Bran Extract, Wheat Germ Extract, Wheat Germ
(supervising Rabbi) go to the plant to personally
Glycerides, Wheat Germanidopropyldimonium
check the flavorings being used. In regard to Pesach,
Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Wheat
it is also important to note that even within the
Germ Oil, Wheat Protein, Wheat Sphingolipids.
same company (Coke, Pepsi, etc.) any individual
FROZEN VEGETABLES bottling plant throughout the country may choose
to use corn syrup as a sweetener. For this reason
There are many issues concerning the use of frozen
as well, it is essential that a reliable Mashgiach
vegetables for Pesach. Most large companies, such
be on the premises during production. There are
as S&W, Green Giant and Bird’s Eye, purchase their
thousands of flavorings used by the food industry,
vegetables from many different processors. Due to
not all of which are Kosher (let alone for Pesach).
increased competition in this industry from Mexico
Some, such as ambergris (from whale intestines)
and Guatemala, many packers are processing pasta
and civet absolute (from cats) are, of course, never
and vegetables in the same blanching equipment
Kosher. Even if an individual knows that a soda is
when it is not being used for pure vegetables. This is
reliably certified Kosher for Pesach in one particular
done at temperatures between 100 to 200 degrees,
city, this does not mean that the same brand of soda
thus making the machinery Halachically unacceptable
is Kosher elsewhere.
for Pesach use. However, some companies use steam12
Note: Commonly, Coke and others will Enfapro, Giant, Heinz Nurture, Isomil, Mother’s
be reliably certified for Pesach. The Choice, Nestle Good Start, Next Step, ProSobee,
bottle, however, may list “corn syrup/sugar” as Rite Aid, Safeway Select, Similac, Target, Walgreens,
an ingredient. As long as the product bears a Wegmens’.
reliable Pesach certification, the soda has been
Soy Milk - 365 Everyday Value (original, Light and
reformulated to meet all Pesach concerns.
Unsweetened), Fit & Active, Hy-Vee, Market Basket
Note: Coke is being produced for Pesach in (unsweetened), Meijer, Nature’s Place, Nature’s
California this year. Coke will be available in Boston, Promise Organic, ShopRite, Stop & Shop.
Baltimore-Washington, Miami and Atlanta as well.
Almond Milk - 365 Everyday Value, Kroger, Market
All the Passover Coke items will be marked with
Basket, Meijer, Nature’s Place, Ralphs, ShopRite,
a distinctive yellow cap in addition to the O/UP
Trader Joe’s.
symbol on the cap or shoulder of the bottle.
Rice Milk - Original Clearly Organic, Harris Teeter,
EGGS
Krasdale Organic, Meijer, Nature’s Promise, Rice
It is best to buy eggs that were laid before Pesach. Dream (unsweetened only), ShopRite.
This is due to the fact that chickens are usually
Note: all of the above are best in liquid form and
given feed which is Chometz. Therefore, there is a
bought before Pesach.
minhag (custom) not to eat eggs which were laid
on Pesach. OIL
Note: Eggs do not require a Hechscher, even when Oil from olives, palm, coconut and walnuts are
pasteurized. acceptable for Pesach with a proper Kosher for
Pesach Hashgacha. This is because the fruits
MILK
they are extracted from is not kitniyos. Minchas
Due to the modern pasteurizing processes used in Yitzchok (lll:138:2) suggests that cottonseed oil is
the milk industry, many nutrients are inadvertently kitniyos, but in a subsequent teshuva (IV:113:3), he
removed. reconsiders this position. In the U.S., cottonseed
oil is generally not considered to be kitniyos but in
Governmental regulations dictate that Vitamin
Eretz Yisroel there are those who refrain from using
D, and in some cases, Vitamin A be added to milk
it.
before its sale. The amounts added are very minute.
Inasmuch as Vitamins A and D are often derived Extra Virgin Olive Oil with reliable Hashgacha
from Chometz or kitniyos, and since mixtures of (year-round) Is recommended for Pesach use, even
even small amounts of Chometz on Pesach are not without special Pesach certification.
“batel” (annulled), we must be cautious concerning
SUPERMARKETS
milk which contains these additives.
One of the major conveniences that is enjoyed
Another matter of concern is the processing
in many parts of the United States, is being able
equipment. Milk companies often produce
to shop in our large National supermarket chains
chocolate milk on the same equipment that they
for Kosher items all year and in particular, for
use for their plain “white” milk. The chocolate
Pesach. Along with this convenience, however,
milk may contain malt, which is made from grain.
comes a responsibility to check well for the
In order to avoid these problems, two steps are
Pesach certification on each item we buy. It is not
necessary. First, it is necessary to make sure that the
uncommon for non-Pesach items to be found on
dairy company whose milk we purchase for Pesach
the Pesach designated shelves.
processes only plain “white” milk and not chocolate
milk. Secondly, the milk that we need for all of MARSHMALLOWS & GELATINS
Pesach must be bought before Pesach. By doing Although many “Kosher for Passover“ marshmallows
so, the vitamins in the milk are deemed “batel” are presumably made without Chometz ingredients,
(annulled) from before Pesach (since Bitul works if nevertheless, they may contain an ingredient which
the mixture occurs before Pesach), and therefore, is highly controversial (for year round use), namely,
may be used on Pesach. Whenever possible, gelatin. The main sources of gelatin are cattle and
certified Kosher for Passover milk is preferable. hogs. The process of making gelatin is as follows:
MILK SUBSTITUTES the collagen in the bones and skins of the animals
is converted by soaking 2” x 3” strips of hide in
Many people i.e. infants, elderly, those who are
hydrochloric acid until it turns into ossein. This is
ill etc. often warrant consuming kitniyos but not
then soaked in lime for about a month. It is then
Chometz. The following products (partial list) are
washed in sulfuric acid to obtain the gelatin.
free of actual Chometz:
In 1912, Rav Chaim Ozer Grodzenski ZT”L sent a
Infant Formula - Alsoy, CVS, EnfaCare, Enfamil,13
PICO
A: 4817 West Pico Blvd.
FAIRFAX
A: 444 N. Fairfax Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90016 Los Angeles, CA 90036
P: 323.933.8283 P: 323.655.8870
E: pico@westernkosher.com E: fairfax@westernkosher.com
HOURS HOURS
Sun 7 - 6:00 Sun 7 - 6:00
Mon / Tue / Wed 7 - 7 Mon / Tue / Wed 7 - 7
Thu 7 - 7:30 Thu 7 - 7:30
Fri 7 - 2.5 hours before sundown Fri 7 - 2.5 hours before sundown
Sat CLOSED Sat CLOSED
response to the Royal Gelatin Company concerning that is presently being used in pharmaceuticals and
the methods of obtaining Kosher gelatin from some food products certified Kosher. Fortunately,
non Kosher hides. Additionally, in 1950, Rav Lazer a truly reliable certified Kosher gelatin obtained
Silver vehemently opposed the hechsher on a from Glatt Kosher hides is being produced under
well known gelatin product. In 1966, Rav Moshe the supervision of the O/U. This gelatin is used by
Feinstein ZT”L, and Rav Aaron Kotler ZT”L both Tzali’s, Golden Fluff, Manischewitz and Granny’s
opposed all gelatins that were not obtained from marshmallow brands.
a Kosher source. Kosher gelatin, from Kosher
Today, much of the gelatin produced in the U.S. is
slaughtered animals, tends to be too expensive for
made from the skin or hides of pigs, since It is much
large companies to produce. This is the reason that
cheaper than making gelatin from cow bones. Fish
the O/U, O/K, Star-K and other reliable certifying
gelatin, therefore, is the most commonly-used
agencies insist upon a gelatin substitute in products
Kosher gelatin in modern times. The Gemorah
which would otherwise need gelatin. Marshmallows
Pesachim 76b says that it is dangerous to eat meat
are a prime example of such a product. Some
and fish together. Nevertheless, many Poskim allow
acceptable substitutes for gelatin are: Japanese
fish marshmallows with meat since the amount of
gelatin, Japanese insinglass, agar agar, Chinese
gelatin (fish based) is very little and considered to
moss, Irish moss, carrageenan. Surprisingly, there is
be “Batel”. Therefore, it is common today to find
even one marshmallow product being sold which
Kosher Marshmallows with Kosher “fish” gelatin,
states “Kosher Beef Gelatin” which is produced
under reliable Hashgachas.
from dried beef bones from India, which were not
Kosher slaughtered. There is a new type of fish gel14
PET FOOD Blue Freedom Grain Free (canned): Chicken for
Kittens, Chicken for Cats, Fish, Flaked Chicken in
One of the many challenges of Pesach is finding Tasty Gravy, Chicken for Mature Cats.
Halachically permissible pet food. There are two
separate Kashrus issues about which one should Evanger’s: When bearing cRc Passover approval.
be aware. One is related specifically to Pesach, and Friskies (canned): Pate Chicken and Tuna Dinner,
the other related to the rest of the year as well. Pate Classic Seafood Entrée, Pate Turkey and Giblets,
The year round problem concerns the mixing of Pate Country Style Dinner, Pate Mariners Catch, Pate
milk and meat. It states three times in the Torah Salmon Dinner
“Lo Sevashel G’dee Bachalev Imo”. Literally, this is a
Kirkland: (Costco) (dry): Healthy Weight Indoor
prohibition against cooking milk and meat together.
Adult, Maintenance Chicken & Rice, Nature’s Domain
However, from the fact that the Torah states this
Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato.
three times, and uses the term Gedee (kid), the
Gemorah (Talmud) in Chulin (113A 115B) explains Kosher Paws - Turkey & Chicken Cat Food (No
this to mean that milk from any Kosher species and Kitniyos or Gebrokts - O/UP)
meat from any Kosher species (i.e. beef mixed with
Meow Mix Grain Free With Wild Salmon
cow’s milk or goat’s milk etc.) are forbidden to: a)
be cooked together, b) be eaten together, c) derive Merrick Grain Free Limited Ingredient Diet
benefit or pleasure from them. These prohibitions (canned): Real Chicken, Real Duck, Real Salmon, Real
(from the Torah) do not apply to poultry or venison. Turkey, Real Tuna.
In order to avoid confusion, the Rabanan (Rabbis)
Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free (dry): Adult
extended the prohibition of eating milk and meat
(Healthy Weight, Real Chicken and Sweet Potato),
together to include poultry and venison. However,
Healthy Senior, Healthy Kitten
deriving benefit from poultry mixed with milk was
not included in this decree. Therefore, chicken with Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free (canned):
whey, milk or cheese is permissible in pet food. Chicken Casserole Morsels, Chicken Divan, Morsels
Salmon Pate, Tuna Pate.
Commonly, dog and cat foods contain milk and
meat mixtures, and therefore, are forbidden to Prescription Diet: a/d, d/d except duck, m/d
Jewish pet owners all year round. There is an canned only, r/d, s/d, t/d, z/d.
additional problem for a Jew who is a pet owner Wellness Core Grain Free (dry): Adult, Indoor, Kitten,
during Pesach. The basis for this problem is that Original
Chometz carries with it three “Isurim” (prohibitions)
a) Hanaah (benefit), b) Ownership, c) Baal Yimatze Wellness Core Grain-Free Classic Pate (canned):
(it must be completely removed from a person’s Indoor, Kitten, Whitefish & Salmon & Herring.
premises). A person who owns a pet is obligated DOG FOOD
to feed It in a timely manner, and due to the
prohibition of deriving any pleasure or benefit Alpo Chop House (canned): Filet mignon and
from Chometz, we are not permitted to use or Bacon Flavors cooked in Savory Juices, Prime Rib
own pet food containing any type of Chometz on Flavor cooked in Savory Juices, Roasted Chicken and
Pesach. Therefore, it is important to be aware of Top Sirloin Flavors cooked in Savory Juices, T-Bone
the prevalent use of the five grains: wheat (germ, Steak and Ribeye flavors cooked in Savory Juices.
cracked, flour, gluten, ground, grouts, middlings, Blue Freedom Grain Free (canned): Duck & Chicken
starch), rye, barley (cracked flour), oats (flour, Grill, Salmon & Chicken Grill, Beef & Chicken Grill.
grouts, hulled) & spelt in dog and cat foods today.
Other Chometz ingredients are Brewer’s Yeast, Blue Wilderness Grain Free (canned): Duck &
Gluten, Malt, Pasta, Starch and Xanthan Gum. chicken grill, salmon & chicken grill, turkey &
Almost all dry pet foods list wheat or oats as their chicken grill.
first ingredient. This is true for fish food and bird Evangers: When bearing cRc Passover approval.
foods as well.
I and Love and You: Grain Free Canned Dog Food
Note: Only clay or wood-based Kitty Litter may be
used on Pesach, as others may contain Chometz. Kirkland (Costco) Nature’s Domain (dry): Salmon
Meal and Sweet Potato, Turkey Meal and Sweet
Additional Animal-Related Concern: Often the Potato.
products that one may purchase at a local zoo to
feed the animals contain Chometz and should not Kosher Paws: Turkey and Chicken Dog Food (No
be purchased or fed to the animals on Pesach. Kitniyos or Gebrokts - O/UP)
CAT FOOD Newman’s Own: Canned Dog Food Chicken &
brown Rice
Abound Grain Free Canned Cat Food15
Wellness Core Grain Free (dry): Ocean, Original, of these Items, give sparingly.
Reduced Fat, Small Breed.
Guinea pigs, rabbits & chinchillas especially will
Wellness Core Grain Free (canned): Beef & Venison benefit from greens, oranges, Timothy hay, grapes,
& Lamb, Puppy, Turkey & Chicken Liver & Turkey apples and melons. Guinea pigs will particularly
Liver, Whitefish & Salmon & Herring benefit from kale, parsley and oranges.
Wellness Core Grain Free Ninety Five Percent Hamsters especially will benefit from apples.
(canned): Beef with Carrots, Chicken with Broccoli,
Guinea pigs will especially benefit from kale, parsley
Turkey with Spinach.
and oranges as well as vitamin C added to their diet.
FISH FOOD
Mice and rats will eat sunflower seeds, greens,
Fish food and vacation blocks often contain vegetables and potatoes.
Chometz. The following are acceptable fish food for
MORE PET FOOD INFORMATION
Pesach:
Mixes sold in stores often contain chometz. It is
Zoo Med Laboratories Giant Plankton Banquet
advisable for pet owners to slowly wean their pets
Block Feeder and Tetra Tropical Slow Release Gel
off their regular chometz pet food diet. This is best
Feeders (Tetra Weekend 5 days and Tetra Vacation
accomplished by mixing regular and Pesach food
14 days). Goldfish and tropical fish can be fed the
between one and two weeks before Pesach before
following (provided they do not contain fillers):
switching completely to Pesach food. The ratio of
Tubular worms, frozen brine shrimp and freeze
regular and Pesach food should be changed slowly
dried worms.
to get the animal used to the new diet. Check with
GECKO your vet before changing your pet’s diet.Also, pure
Timothy Hay is NOT chometz and may be used.
Repashy Crested Gecko Meal Replacement Powder.
Note: One may shop at Petco and Petsmart stores
BIRDS
immediately after Pesach.
(Parrots, Parakeets, Cockatiels, Canaries and Macaws)
Millet, canary grass seed and sorghum as the main ITEMS THAT MAY BE
diet. USED WITHOUT PESACH
Peanuts, sunflower seeds and safflower seeds
CERTIFICATION
Larger birds such as parrots can eat pure alfalfa
pellets (make sure it is pure alfalfa since it is (FOR 5781-2021)
common to add grains) or dry dog approved dog Abdominal Discomfort - Adwe Stool Softener,
food. Alka - Seltzer (original Tablets) Dramamine (original
Smaller birds can also have pure alfalfa pellets, crush (dairy), less drowsy tablets (dairy), chewable
before feeding tablet (orange), Konsyl Powder Original formula -
Unflavored (no kitniyos), Gelusil tablets, Diclegis
Can supplement with cottage cheese, rice cakes (for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy - COR),
(birds like these), small pieces of lean meat, matzah, Metamucil 4 in 1 Original Coarse Powder (no
berries, eggs, canned baby fruits. All large food Kitniyos), Orange Smooth Powder (Regular & Sugar-
should be shredded before serving. And these Free), Miralax Powder, Phillips Milk of Magnesia
items should be given sparingly. (unflavored, Original Liquid - no Kitniyos),Pepcid,
For minerals, can only have oyster shells (calcium) or Pepto Bismol (Original Liquid, Chewables, Caplets),
mineral blocks. Rolaids (animal glycerin and Kitniyos), Bicarbonate
of Soda, Senokot (Extra Strength Tablets (dair) &
HAMSTERS, GUINEA PIGS, GERBILS & Senokot-S Tablets, Zantac (not liquid), Imodium,
RABBITS Gas-X
It is best to feed pure alfalfa pellets to these animals. Agave - Health Garden Organic Raw Agave
Make sure the pellets are pure alfalfa since it is Sweetener (O/K)
common to add grains. Dried alfalfa may also be Air Freshener - All
given. Alcohol - All Isopropyl
One can also supplement with a mixture of cut- Alcoholic Beverages - Patron Silver Tequila,
up fruits and vegetables such as: carrots, broccoli, Vinprom-Troyan Brandy - apple, apricot, pear and
apples, melon, kale, parsley, oranges, celery, dry plum Brandy (Star-K)
corn, sunflower seeds and cabbage. One can also Almond Milk Original - (Kitniyos - To be used only
give Matzah. If the animal is not used to eating any for the infirm and children who need an alternativeYou can also read
