PASSOVER - PESACH APRIL 2022 - NISAN 5782
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1 PASSOVER - PESACH APRIL 2022 - NISAN 5782
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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.
Shmittah ................................................................................................... 7 STANDARDS OF KASHRUS
Fast of the First Born .............................................................................. 8 With over 1,000 Kosher certifying
Eating on Erev Pesach ............................................................................ 8 agencies and individuals competing
in the Kosher certifying business,
Selected Laws & Customs ...................................................................... 8 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
animals being used, (often listed
Internet Sites ........................................................................................10 as “k-Gelatin”), corn syrup as an
Pet Foods ...............................................................................................12 ingredient in Passover products
Items that may be used without Passover Certification ............. 15 (with a long reference attempting to
legitimize it), carmine (from bugs)
Items that are reliably certified for Passover ................................. 23
used as red coloring, as well as many
Products to be cautious of for Pesach use ...................................... 30 other questionable ingredients.
New Products for Pesach and Updates............................................ 33 With the vast number of products
Alerts ....................................................................................................... 35 being certified by reliable agencies
and individuals, it would seem to
Times to Remember ............................................................................39
be much less tempting to allow for
CHOMETZ ON PESACH these lenient opinions to lessen
our observance of Pesach. Additionally, some
Chometz is any substance from one of five cereal
establishments only offer “Kosher style” products for
grains (wheat, barley, oats, spelt, or rye), that
Pesach, while the lenient word “style” is missed by
contains leavening, caused by its prolonged contact
many. Some food establishments offer a Passover
with water or other liquids. It is important to note
taco bar, ham on Matzah special and Passover
that Chometz/Se”or does NOT translate into “yeast”.
“challah”, among other things. The only protection
It refers to leavening: namely self-rising from a
as far as the government is concerned is from
sour-dough starter type of process. The prohibition
Assembly Bill 295, section 1329.29, passed in March
of Chometz on Pesach includes “Chometz Gomur”
of 1993. It states: “No person shall do any of the
(unadulterated Chometz) and “Ta‘aruvas Chometz”
following: Make any direct statement, either orally
(a mixture containing real Chometz). There are three
or in writing, display the words “Kosher”, “Kosher
areas with which we must be concerned when
style”, “Kosher type”, “Kosher for Passover”, “Jewish”,
evaluating Chometz. First, there is “Isur Hana’ah”.
or “Hebrew” in any language or display any insignia,
This means that one may not derive any pleasure
six pointed star, or other mark that might reasonably
or benefit whatsoever from Chometz (e.g., feeding
be calculated to deceive or lead a reasonable person
Chometz to one’s pets, etc.). Secondly, a Jew may
to believe a product is “Kosher” or sanctioned by
not own Chometz. This prohibition extends to
Orthodox Hebrew religious requirements, if it is
possession of Chometz anywhere in the world (such
not”. Obviously, one needs to be vigilant in carefully
as in a boat, office, mountain retreat, etc.). Thirdly,
watching for proper certification.
there is a prohibition against having Chometz in
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, and
severity of Chometz many have the custom to not corn among others: (see below). Sephardim, whose
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minhag (custom) permits them to eat rice seed, chia and Hemp seed are not actually kitniyos
on Pesach, must be careful to determine and can be used after checking for other grains.
that the rice is additive-free. Many Sephardim have The Following are not considered Kitniyos, buy may
the minhag to check the rice three times, as well as require special checking for Chometz Grains Mixed
to check for other grains that may be mixed in. In in: Anise, Carob, Chia Seeds, Coriander, Cottonseed,
any case, open bins in stores should not be used. Cumin, Guar Gum, Locust Bean Gum, Safflower,
This year, again, the Star-K Kashrus organization Saffron.
is certifying Carolina Mehadrin Rice for use for
Sephardim on Pesach. GOING AWAY FOR PESACH
Ashkenazim refrain from eating peanuts as well. One must sell his/her Chometz regardless of where
However, this restriction regarding peanuts may they are for Pesach. This is the case even if one left
not include peanut oil (according to the opinion of home 30 days before Pesach and no one will be in
Rav Moshe Feinstein ZT”L.) Legumes are permitted the house during Pesach. It is necessary to inform
for some Sephardic Jews who, for various historical the Rabbi selling your Chometz as to the location of
reasons, did not adopt this custom of refraining the Chometz and to your location during Pesach so
from kitniyos consumption on Pesach. A reliable that he can know the proper time zones of selling
source of acceptable products following this and buying back the Chometz for you.
Sephardic custom is the Sephardi division of the If a person leaves home before Pesach, within 30
J.S.O.R. at (732) 531-4872 or WWW.JSOR.ORG (be days of Pesach, the night before his/her departure
aware that a number of lists exist for Sephardim that should do a regular Bedikas Chometz without a
are extremely misleading and erroneous). Bracha and recite “Kol Chamira” over the Chometz
For this reason, the Kosher consumer is confronted found in the house. Note: Kol Chamira should
every year around Pesach time with a confusing always be said in a language that one understands,
array of Kosher certifications found on candy, jam, as this is not a Tefilla, but a declaration. The
mustard, and other products containing legumes. alternative to an early Bedika is to appoint a
These products are edible on Pesach by only Shaliach (messenger) to do a regular Bedikas
certain groups of Jews. Many, but not all, will state Chometz with a Bracha on the proper night of
“Leochlei Kitniyos - only for those who eat kitniyos”. Bedikas Chometz.
Some examples of this are sunflower seeds, canned A guest in a hotel, who has Chometz in the hotel
vegetables, halva etc. Every Jew, however, is on the night of Bedikas Chometz should conduct
permitted to derive benefit from kitniyos (such as themselves as they would at home, performing a full
pet food, glue, baby formula etc.). Bedika with a Bracha. It is the minhag to carefully
The following are considered kitniyos or treated as put out pieces of Chometz before beginning the
kitniyos according to many opinions: Bedika.
Alfalfa Sprouts, Anise, Ascorbic Acid (May be It is preferable to empty a stocked hotel fridge of
Chometz), Aspartame (Nutrasweet), BHA & BHT beer, cookies etc. before Pesach begins. If this is not
(both in corn oil), Beans, Bean Sprouts, Black Eyed possible, minimally, the fridge should be taped or
Peas, Buckwheat, Calcium Ascorbate, Canola Oil, locked shut. The guest should inform the hotel that
Caraway, Cardamom, Citric Acid (May be Chometz), they do not accept responsibility for those items.
Chickpeas, Confectioners’ Sugar, Coriander, A guest for Pesach at a relative’s house should hear
Corn, Corn Syrup, Corn Oil, Cumin, Dextrose, the Bracha from the owner of the house and then
Edamame,Emulsifiers, Fennel Seeds, Fenugreek, make his/her own Bedika in their room.
Flavors, Flax Seeds (Linseed), Glucose, Green Beans, BITUL (ANNULMENT) OF CHOMETZ
Hemp (unchecked), Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein,
During the year, any non - Kosher ingredients which
Isolated Soy Protein, Isomerized Syrup, Kasha,
are inadvertently mixed with Kosher ingredients
Kimmel, Lecithin, Lentils, Licorice, Lucerne, Lupine,
may be Halachically (according to Jewish law) fit
MaltoDextrins (Chometz or kitnios-derived), Millet,
to eat. The reason for this leniency is that they are
MSG, Mustard, Peas, Peanuts (and Peanut Oil) Peas,
declared “Batel Beshishim” (annulled in sixty i.e.,
Poly-sorbates (May be Chometz), Popcorn, Poppy
the Kosher food is at least sixty times greater than
Seeds, Pumpkin Seeds, Rapeseed, Rice (Vitamins
the non-Kosher, thus making the non-Kosher food
added may be Chometz), Sesame Seeds, Snow
annulled). This rule is true regarding Chometz on
Peas, Sodium Erythorbate, Sodium Citrate (May be
Pesach only if the mixture was made before Pesach.
Chometz), Sodium Erythorbate (May be Chometz),
During Pesach, the laws of “bitul” are not applicable.
Sorbitan, Sorbitol (Could be Chometz if outside the
In other words, during the week of Pesach, if even
U.S.), Soybeans, Soy Oil, Corn Oil, Soy, Stabilizers,
a tiny amount of Chometz falls into a large amount
Starch, String Beans, Sunflower Seeds,Tofu,
of “Kosher for Pesach” food, it renders the food, as
Vegetable Oil, Vitamin C (may be Chometz), Wild
well as the pot, unfit for use on Pesach. As in all such
Rice, Xanthan gum (May be Chometz). NOTE: Flax
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Halachic questions, a competent Rav should be Beer, Bread, Cake & Cookies, Cereal
consulted. with primary ingredient of wheat, oats
Note: Lactaid drops may contain Chometz. or barley, Cream of Wheat, Couscous, Farfel,
Therefore, they should be added to milk before Licorice (when wheat is in the ingredients),
Pesach to have the Chometz annulled in sixty times Oatmeal (Instant, Regular Baby Cereal), Pasta,
the amount of milk, applesauce etc. Pretzels, Rolled Oats, Wheat Gluten/Wheat
Protein, Yeast (Brewer’s).
CONSUMPTION OF CHOMETZ
Since the prohibition of eating Chometz on Pesach
applies not only to Chometz itself, but to any EIRUV TAVSHILIN
derivatives of Chometz or to any product that This year, the last two days of Pesach are Yom Tov
may contain Chometz, one should make certain followed by Shabbos. This presents a problem of
that all food products that are bought for Pesach when we may cook for Shabbos. Normally, we are
should have a certification by a reliable Kashrus prohibited from cooking on one day of Yom Tov for
organization or Orthodox Rabbi. a different day. The same holds true for cooking
HANA’AH (BENEFIT) FROM CHOMETZ on Yom Tov for Shabbos meals. Recognizing the
difficulty of cooking for Shabbos days in advance,
During Pesach, we may not derive any sort of Chazal (the early generation of Rabbis) came up
benefit from Chometz. Therefore, Chometz may with an alternative. This consists of beginning
not be sold or used, even in business transactions the cooking process for Shabbos before Yom Tov
or as pet food. Even some cosmetics must be and concluding the preparations on Yom Tov Erev
Chometz-free. Generally, there is no problem with Shabbos. Therefore, this year, the official start of
the following products if they are not organic in Shabbos cooking (the last days of Pesach) is done
nature, and do not contain any grain by - products: Friday, by cooking an egg or other small part of a
Acne Aid, Mineral Oil, Baby Cream, Baby Oil, Eye meal and setting it aside together with a Matzo for
Liner, Mascara, Rouge (Powder), Nail Polish, Talcum Shabbos. One then recites the Brocho (blessing)
Powder, Stick Powder Deodorant, and Vaseline. and declaration as stated in the Siddur under Eiruv
MECHIRAS (SELLING OF) CHOMETZ Tavshilin. If a person forgot to do this on Erev Yom
“Mechiras Chometz” is the sale of Jewish- owned Tov, they should ask their local Rabbi what to do.
Chometz to a non- Jew before Pesach. One must sell .
Chometz which is in their regular home, vacation CHOMETZ SHE’AVAR ALAV HAPESACH
home, office etc. If one cannot sell their Chometz
through their local Rabbi, numerous sites on-line (BUYING CHOMETZ AFTER PESACH)
will facilitate this transaction. This transfer of Due to the severity of the “Issur” (prohibition) of
Chometz to a non-Jew is a legal and binding sale, Chometz, Chazal reinforced the sale of Chometz
complete with contract. This sale is transacted with a fine. This fine was levied on any Jews who
through a Rabbi, who acts as a legal agent to sell kept Chometz in their possession or ownership
the Jew’s Chometz to a non-Jew. The Rabbi enters during Pesach. This is called “Chometz She’avar
into an agreement with the non-Jew for the sale of Alav HaPesach.” Jewish law requires that if a Jew
this Chometz. The Chometz that has been sold must owns Chometz on Pesach, no Jew is allowed to eat
be placed in an area which is completely sealed off that food, even after Pesach. Therefore, we are also
and must remain there throughout the holiday of prohibited from buying in stores which are Jewish
Pesach. One must be careful to inform the Rabbi if owned if they have not sold their Chometz. It is
they intend to be in a different time zone for Pesach. important to note that although we may not buy
They do not want to have their Chometz bought Chometz from such Jewish - owned stores that
back if it is still Pesach where they are (i.e. overseas, did not sell their Chometz, we may purchase non-
etc.) If one leaves home within 30 days of Pesach Chometz food products from these stores. Only
and will not return before Pesach, they should Chometz Gamur has this restriction.
either check for Chometz the night before they
Some common products that one may assume
leave or appoint someone to check for them on the
are Chometz,( but are actually not), and therefore
regular night of B’dikas Chometz. If the checking
may be purchased in a store that did not sell
is done before the b’dikah night one does not say
their Chometz are the following… baker’s yeast,
a Bracha. A person can sell all the Chometz in their
cosmetics, dry cake mixes, kitniyos, glue containing
home before leaving and check only one room for
Chometz, ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, pickles,
Chometz. Regardless, a person needs to say the
medicine containing Chometz, maltodextrin,
Bittul (annulment) of Chometz at its regular time of
maltose, malt flavoring, food coloring, flour, extracts,
Erev Pesach.
raw pearled barley, vanilla and vitamins/medicine
The Following Are Considered Chometz Gamur: containing Chometz.
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Rav Moshe Feinstein ZT”L, in his sefer seventh - year produce. If one were, for instance,
“Igros Moshe”, states that if a Jew sold to buy Jaffa Oranges or wine from Israel produced
his Chometz for Pesach, and then kept his store this year, or lemon juice etc., the laws of Shmitta
open during Pesach and continued to sell items of would be very relevant. If a product bears a reliable
Chometz, one is nevertheless allowed to buy from Hashgacha, it means that it was Halachically dealt
that store after Pesach. with in a manner that it was allowed to be sold to a
A Jew may buy from the following stores frum Jew. Produce grown this year normally is not
immediately after Pesach: 7-Eleven, 99 Cent allowed to be exported. However, produce grown
Store, Albertsons, Aldi, B’js, Bev/Mo, Big Lots, in Israel this year on land fully owned by a non-Jew
Bristol Farms, Coffee Bean, Costco, CVS, Dollar is fully permissible according to the Minhag of
Tree, Erewhon, Food4Less, Food Lion, Fresh & Yerushalayim, while the Bnei Brak Minhag dictates
Easy, Gelson’s, Jetro/Restaurant Depot, Jon’s, not to use it. Certain areas of Israel are not within
K-Mart, Nuts & More, Petco, Petsmart, Ralphs/ the boundaries of Eretz Hakodesh and therefore,
Kroger, Rite Aid, Royal Farms, Sadaf, Safeway, are not subject to the laws of Shviis. Although at
Sam’s Club, Smart & Final, Smith’s, Target one time, out of great necessity, the entire country
(California), Trader Joe’s, Vons/Pavillions, was “sold” to a non-Jew in the manner of selling
Walgreens, Walmart, Wegmans, Whole Foods, Chometz, most Poskim and Kashrus agencies agree
Wine & Liquor Depot that this “Heter Mechira” is not normally effective
or even allowed. The majority of Poskim say that
In addition, all reliably certified Kosher stores one is not allowed to sell Eretz Yisroel to a non-Jew,
are fine to shop in for Chometz after Pesach. as it would lower its Kedusha. Fruit of Shviis must
Reliably certified Kosher stores all sell their be treated with special regard as well, even out of
Chometz before Pesach. the country. It normally cannot be thrown away or
Note: Rabbi Elmaliach, the Rabbi in charge of treated in a disrespectful manner. This necessitates
Kashrus at Ben Gurion airport, reports that the throwing away left over fruit from Eretz Yisroel in
stores at area D7 in the airport are clear of Chometz a bag, leaving it to rot and only then, discarding it
She’avar Olav Hapesach. There is a restaurant in in the trash. Certain fruits from the seventh year
the Ben Gurion airport called “Aroma Espresso Bar’’, have restrictions next year, after Rosh Hashanna as
under Chug Chosom Sofer Hashgacha and it is fine well, due to having been grown in the seventh year
to eat there after Pesach. The other stores in other of Shmitta. This Halacha is relevant to next year’s
areas of the airport had their Chometz sold but were crop of Esrogim as well. Most will sell a Lulav with
open on Pesach and continued to sell Chometz Hadasim and Aravos and give a “free” Esrog with
during Pesach. Some poskim allow purchases from the set. In addition, for the next couple of years, we
such establishments after Pesach, while some do will need to check Israeli wines that were produced
not. during the Shmitta year. Some will state “Heter
(See AKO whiskey alert in the “alerts” section} Mechira” on them. The major Kashrus agencies of
the world do not use this Heter. Otzar Beis Din,
SHMITTA on the other hand, is a Heter that is widely used.
Eretz Yisroel is blessed with many Mitzvos that This means that a Bais Din supervised the sale, and
the rest of the world lacks. This year, 5782, is the the transport of produce took place with minimal
Shmitta year, the year in which the land is not payment to the orchard owner to cover expenses.
worked, the farms lay quiet, and the farmers are able These products, however, still need to be treated
to take a Sabbatical. It allows them to reconnect with proper handling of Kedushas Shviis produce
with their families and learn Torah, uninterrupted, (as mentioned above). Due to the complexity of the
without the pressure of daily farming. One year laws of Shmitta, one should always check with their
at the commencement of Shmitta, the Ponnevez Rav when in doubt.
Rav, Harav Yosef Kahannaman ZTL, walked over Anyone fortunate to spend Pesach this year in Israel
to a tree, kissed it and wished it a “Good Yom Tov”. should become well versed in these Halachos. As
Although the Mitzvah is centered in Eretz Yisroel, always one should only rely on certain Hashgachos
it has many ramifications for Jews living in other that are known to be careful in Shmita as well as
countries as well. As the Posuk says: “for six years Kashrus.
we may tend to our fields but in the seventh year,
we must cease”. שש שנים תזרעAlthough there KASHERING
are many laws associated with this great Mitzvah,
(MAKING UTENSILS KOSHER)
which might confuse anyone not familiar with those
laws, fortunately, one can mostly rely on their usual Utensils that are used during the year for Chometz
Hechsherim to take care of the Shmitta Halachic may not be used to prepare food for Pesach unless
issues. However, we are certainly still confronted they are properly Kashered.
with situations that require guidance for the Cloth tablecloths (not plastic) and towels used year-
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round should be washed thoroughly and may then Many microwave ovens (those whose
be used for Pesach. walls do not exceed 120 degrees during
Surfaces upon which only cold Chometz has been cooking) without browning elements or convection
placed during the year, such as refrigerators and can be Kashered by first cleaning them and not
pantry shelves, should be thoroughly washed and using them for 24 hours, and then putting a new
rinsed to prepare them for Pesach use. Surfaces glass tray, or cardboard on the bottom. Afterwards,
which are used for hot Chometz during the year, in a cup or bowl of water should be boiled inside.
addition, whenever possible must be Kashered by A barbecue grate must be Kashered with “Libun
pouring hot water on them. Surfaces that cannot Gamur” which includes torching any surface that
be Kashered (such as formica and ceramic tiles food comes in contact with, in addition to cleaning
etc.) should first be cleaned thoroughly and then and burning out the rest of the barbecue as one
covered with non- absorbent material (i.e. contact would an oven. In addition, the coals or lava rock
paper, cardboard or multiple layers of aluminum should be replaced. Often, it is more practical to
foil). purchase a new one for Pesach or at least to replace
The different levels of Kashering: the grate.
Libbun Gomur - torching or making the metal A stainless-steel sink is Kashered after it has first
glow. been cleaned, and then kept free from hot water
usage for 24 hours. Then boiling water must be
Libun Kal - heating the metal until it can burn paper poured over its entire surface. Porcelain sinks,
on the other side. however, may not be Kashered. They should be fully
Hagolo - dipping in boiling water. lined with a tin insert, contact paper, aluminum
Eruy Roschim - pouring boiling water. (Note: foil,and/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
it on to the highest temperature setting for 15
water for 15 seconds, followed by rinsing them in
minutes, or until it gets red hot.
cold water immediately upon removal. They should
Enamel glazed stove tops should be covered be Kashered one at a time. An alternate method,
during Pesach. particularly useful for larger pots, is to set aside the
Gas grates should be put in the oven for Kashering pot for 24 hours, after which time it should be filled
or torched. with water and then be brought to a boil. A glowing
hot item, such as a rock, should then be placed
Glass-top stoves can be Kashered in the area of
inside, allowing the hot water to spill over the sides.
the burners. They should be turned to high for 15
minutes. The areas in between cannot be Kashered. Braces, bite plates and retainers should be
Some find it practical to change the entire glass top brushed thoroughly before Pesach.
for Pesach. Countertops that cannot be Kashered: Formica,
A non-self-cleaning oven should be cleaned with a Silestone, Composite Stone and Corian
special solution, such as “Easy Off” and not used for countertops may NOT be Kashered for Pesach, and
24 hours. After this time, it should be turned on to therefore, should be covered.
the maximum setting for one hour. This will Kasher Caesarstone countertops may NOT be Kashered
the oven, but not the broiler. for Pesach according to many opinions, as they are
The broiler pan cannot be Kashered, therefore, it composed of only 93% stone.
is usually not used for Pesach. If the broiler pan is Countertops that may be Kashered: Granite,
replaced, the broiler can be Kashered in a similar Marble, metal, stone, or Stainless-Steel
fashion as the oven. If one desires to Kasher it, countertops may be Kashered by pouring boiling
“Libbun” (glowing hot) is required (i.e., by using a hot water (not steam) on them (Eirui). wood can be
torch). kashered with sanding.
A self- cleaning oven needs only to go through one The following materials are subject to differing
self - clean cycle. It can be on the shortest cycle of opinions if they can be Kashered: China, Corelle,
your self-cleaning oven. Corian, Cork, Corningware, Duralex, Earthware,
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Enamel Coated Formica, Melmac, Nylon, on Erev Pesach in order that the Seder should begin
Plastic, Porcelain, Pyrex, Synthetic Rubber, immediately upon arriving from Shul. This includes
Teflon Coating. Some of the above are agreed upon setting the table, etc. (Note: we cannot prepare for
that they cannot be kashered. Ask your local rabbi. the Seder on Shabbos) It is a custom that pillows
Note: Steam cleaners most often may not be used should be prepared for leaning on during the Seder.
for Kashering purposes, as Kashering must be done Women are not required to recline; however, male
with boiling water (212F) as steam is insufficient. children are. It is also a custom among some that
the head of the household wears a Kittel during the
Water filter - change the filter. Seder. In most places, the custom is that only the
Kitchen Items that may not be kashered i.e., head of the household has a Seder plate and the
bread machines, china, colanders, corelle, corning three Matzos. Some, however, have a Seder plate
ware, graters, mixers, sandwich maker, silverstone, and Matzos for each man present at the Seder.
teflon, toaster oven, waffle iron etc., should When only the head of the household has a Seder
be washed thoroughly and be put away in a plate, he must provide for everyone at the Seder
completely sealed off area or container until after from his plate. Since there is usually not a sufficient
Pesach. amount of Matzo, Marror and wine to ensure that
EREV PESACH everyone present (male and female alike) has the
required amounts during the Seder, additional
Bedikas Chometz: The search begins Thursday night,
Matzo, Marror and wine should be placed on the
4/14. Many have the Minhag to place ten pieces of
table for supplementary use.
bread or crackers in a bag out before the search is
started. THE SEDER PLATE
Fast of the First Born: This year the fast falls on One may not use MARROR (to fulfill the Mitzvah
Friday, 4/15. of Marror) that was soaked for 24 hours or
longer. Soaking this long is called pickling and is
Siyum: Males who are first born and do not wish to
Halachically considered cooking. One may only use
fast on Friday should attend a Siyum in the morning
uncooked vegetables for Marror. (Do not lean when
and eat at the meal following it. This meal is called
eating Marror.)
a Seudas Mitzvah. It is generally held right after
Davening. CHAROSES can be made of ground apples, pears,
pomegranates, dates, figs, walnuts, almonds, ginger
Biur Chometz: The burning of the Chometz left in
and cinnamon, to which wine is added. Recipes may
one’s possession, including the Chometz found the
vary according to tradition.
previous night, must be burned by the end of the
fifth hour on Friday morning (4/15). Please see time KARPAS is any vegetable upon which a Brocho
chart for the exact latest time. of “HaAdama” is made, that may be dipped in salt
water or vinegar, and that may be used on Pesach.
Selling of the Chometz: This must be done by
Parsley, celery, and potatoes are often used as
Friday morning 4/15, no later than the time of Biur
Karpas.
Chometz (see times to remember)
ZROA is a piece of meat which is roasted over the
EATING ON EREV PESACH
fire. Most people use a chicken neck or wing for this
Consumption of Chometz is prohibited on Erev purpose.
Pesach, from a third of the day and after- this is
BAITZA is an ordinary hard boiled or roasted egg.
usually counted four proportional hours from
If one forgot to roast the Zroa or Baitza on Erev
daybreak (see times to remember). It is also
Pesach, and had to do it at night, he must eat the
forbidden to eat Matzo, or anything baked with
egg before sunset the next day.
Matzoh on Erev Pesach. This prohibition includes
egg Matzoh. This is to ensure that one will eat the THE ARBA KOSOS
Matzo at the Seder with a “hearty appetite”. This (FOUR CUPS OF WINE)
prohibition includes cakes and cookies made from
It is preferable that the wine used at the Seder be
matzo meal. However, cooked Matzo products,
red in color. For those who cannot drink wine, grape
such as knaidlach (Matzoh balls) are permitted.
juice may be used (consult your Rabbi). If one must
Non-Gebrochts products are suitable for this
drink grape juice the 64 oz glass bottles that say on
time- period. All foods should only be eaten in
them non-Mevushal are preferable. Nevertheless,
moderation from the ninth hour in the day and on,
one should make every effort to drink wine at the
in order to have an appetite for the Seder. Imitation
Seder. It is preferable to add at least some wine to
Matzo made from Tapioca and Potato ingredients is
the grape juice.
fine for Erev Pesach.
Each cup of wine should contain at least 3.3 fluid
SELECTED LAWS & CUSTOMS
ounces. It is preferable to drink the entire cup, or
One should prepare everything (for the first Seder) at least half of it, for each of the four cups. Due to9
this one should not use a very large cup as this will Gluten Free Shehakol “Matzoh Style”.
necessitate drinking a large amount for each cup. This product is made from tapioca with a
Men must consume all cups of wine while reclining bracha of “Shehakol”. It has no relation to Matzoh
on their left side. If one drank either of the first two other than artificially made to “look” like a Matzoh.
cups without reclining, he must drink again without Gefen and Yehuda Matzoh companies, as well as
a Brocho. some others, manufacture imitation Matzoh. This
is an excellent product to eat Erev Pesach and any
Note: Many Kosher wines (and some brands of grape other time one does not wish to consume Matzoh.
juice in the 64oz. bottles) are not cooked and state (it is also a wonderful imitation Matzoh that can be
“non-Mevushal.” Therefore, care must be taken as to eaten out of a Sukkah since it is not real Matzoh).
who handles them. (Most bottles that are cooked Obviously, this product cannot be used as a
say “Mevushal” in English or Hebrew on the label). substitute at any time for real Matzoh.
Note: Many low-alcohol wines are now available. MEDICINE
Some are pure wine while others are a mixture of
wine and grape juice as indicated. Most prescriptions can be filled with Kosher for
Pesach medicine. For information on the Kosher
MATZOH status of your medicines, contact your local reliable
Only Shmurah Matzoh (watched over from rising), Rabbi.
which is made of grain that has been guarded Rabbi Bess of Los Angeles has compiled the
against fermentation from the time of harvest, most detailed reliable list in the U.S. He can be
should be used for the Mitzvah of eating Matzoh at reached at (323) 933- 7193. Rabbi Bess together
the Seder. Both hand and machine Shmurah Matzoh with the Star-K publishes the Passover Directory
are acceptable. A person should own the Matzoh with this information. Since some prescriptions,
they are using for the Mitzvah. Over the past many unfortunately, are not available with Kosher
decades there have been many opinions given as certification, we will mention some guidelines for
to the merits of hand versus machine Matzoh. Most those who must take medicine on Pesach.
use either one with proper Hashgacha.
1. If one suffers from an illness through which one’s
Shmurah Matzoh has been watched in most cases life may become endangered, one may eat Chometz
from the time of cutting of the wheat to protect on Pesach and may use any medication needed
from unwanted moisture, which may make it rise. to avoid a life-threatening situation. This Chometz
Eighteen Minute Matzoh is run on machines should be owned by a non- Jew.
that are cleaned every 18 minutes to prevent any 2. If someone is ill, but his life is not endangered,
possibility of the dough rising. he may not eat Chometz on Pesach. However,
Regular Pesach Matzoh has been baked on a he may take Chometz medicine under certain
machine in under 18 minutes, but the machine will circumstances as long as he does not take it in the
run all day without cleaning in between runs. normal way (i.e., a pill without a cup of water). A
Matzoh Ashira is any Matzoh that contains Rabbi should be consulted if the need for such
products other than flour and water, such as medication should occur.
grape juice or apple juice. The consumption of 3. Generally speaking, cough syrups and other liquid
Matzoh Ashira is prohibited for most people medicines may contain grain alcohol and may not
throughout Pesach. Included in this category are: be used on Pesach. When one must take medicine
Matzoh which was kneaded with fruit juice, egg during Pesach, his/her doctor should be asked to
matzoh, tea Matzoh, honey and spice Matzoh and prescribe medicine without alcohol or capsules.
some chocolate covered Matzoh. However, this Many over the counter medicines require no
prohibition does not apply to infants or people who special certification to be used on Pesach. Consult
are ill. When in doubt, consult your Rabbi. your Rabbi for specific questions. For a complete
Even one who is allowed to eat Matzoh Ashira, listing of this year’s Kosher for Pesach vitamins (as
cannot fulfill their Mitzvah of Achilas Matzoh (eating well as year-round vitamins) go online to www.
Matzoh) with it. koshervitamins.com. Note: All Freeda Vitamins and
Gluten Free Matzoh - A limited amount of Oat and FNP supplements are produced all year round in a
Spelt Matzoh is produced as Shmura and regular Chometz-free facility. However, some may contain
(non-Shemura) for those who cannot tolerate wheat Kitniyos. See Freeda’s cite cs@freedahealth.com or
Matzoh for medical reasons. One can fulfill the call them at 800 77-3737 for more information on
Mitzvah of eating Matzoh at the Seder with such their Pesach products.
Shmura Matzoh. More information concerning this TOILETRIES
product can be found at www.Glutenfreeoatmatzos. Rabbi Bess lists the following ingredients as possible
com or call (732) 364-8757. Kashrus issues connected to Pesach:10
KOSHER NEWSLETTERS
Kosher & KASHRUS INFORMATION HOTLINES
Kashrus Conscience - Kosher Information Bureau
Information Rabbi E. Eidlitz, Rabbinic Administrator
12753 Chandler Boulevard, Valley Village, California 91607
Bureau Phone: (818) 262 5351, E-mail: eeidlitz@kosherquest.org
Website: www.kosherquest.org
Publications - Kashrus Conscience Magazine
Rabbi Eliezer Eidlitz E-mail updates and alerts
12753 Chandler Boulevard www.kashrut.com Arlene J. Mathes-Scharf
Valley Village, California 91607 Phone: (781)784-6890 Fax: (781)784-6890
(818) 262 5351 E-mail: ajms@kashrut.com, www.kashrut.com
eeidlitz@kosherquest.org P.O. Box 50 Sharon, MA 02067
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
Tel: (718) 303-5955 Israel: 052-763-1500
www.labriutmeals.com Email: Jewishdiabetes@aol.com
(732) 370-0035 London Beis Din Hotline: 020-8343-6255
www.kosher.org.uk General Enquiries 020-8343-6255
Chap a Nosh (516) 374-5100 The Kosher Gram Vaad Harabonim of Greater Detroit & Merkaz
17071 West Ten Mile Road, Southfield, Michigan 48075
The Jewish Diabetes Assn. (313) 559-5005
(718) 578-4180 Israel: 054-732-867 Orthodox Union - O/U Kosher Hotline & Passover Directory
333 7th Avenue, New York, New York 10001
www.koshermart.com (212) 613-8241 Rabbi Menachem Genack
www.ou/kosher.org
www.ohnuts.com J.S.O.R. (Sephardic List) Jersey Shore Orthodox Rabbinate
P.O. Box Elberon NJ 07740 (732) 531-0535
www.koshervitamins.com Rabbi Isaac Dwek - Deal Rabbi Isaac Farhi Deal www.jsor.org
Medicines & Cosmetics of Pesach by Rabbi Gershon Bess
pico@westernkosher.com 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
Amino Peptide Complex, Amp-Isostearoyl Corn syrup, which is made from Kitniyos,
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Avena Sativa Flour, is a common sweetener in soda. The other
Avena Sativa Kernel Protein, Barley Extract, ingredient, “flavoring,” is also a source of concern,
Beta Glucan, Disodium Wheatgermido Peg- since there are thousands of flavors, many of which
2 Sulfosuccinate, Hordeum Vulgare Extract, are not Kosher, and others that are derived from
Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten, Hydrolyzed Chometz. Therefore, even Sephardim who normally
Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein consume Kitniyos on Pesach should seek only those
PgPropyl Silanetriol, Hydrolyzed Wheat products 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. Regarding 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
There are many issues concerning the use of frozen to use corn syrup as a sweetener. For this reason,
vegetables for Pesach. Most large companies, such as well, it is essential that a reliable Mashgiach
as S&W, Green Giant and Bird’s Eye, purchase their be on the premises during production. There are
vegetables from many different processors. Due to thousands of flavorings used by the food industry,
increased competition in this industry from Mexico not all of which are Kosher (let alone for Pesach).
and Guatemala, many packers are processing pasta Some, such as ambergris (from whale intestines)
and vegetables in the same blanching equipment and civet absolute (from cats) are, of course, never
when it is not being used for pure vegetables. Kosher. Even if an individual knows that a soda is
This is done at temperatures between 100 to 200 reliably certified Kosher for Pesach in one particular
degrees, thus making the machinery Halachically city, this does not mean that the same brand of soda
unacceptable for Pesach use. However, some is Kosher elsewhere.
companies use steam blanchers, which are not Note: Commonly, Coke and others will be reliably
usable for pasta. Bodek, Garden Pure, as well as certified for Pesach. The bottle, however, may list
others carry many frozen vegetables which are “corn syrup/sugar” as an ingredient. As long as the
certified for Pesach. product bears a reliable Pesach certification, the
FRESH VEGETABLES soda has been reformulated to meet all Pesach
concerns.
In general, fresh vegetables do not pose a special
concern for Pesach. However, fruits and vegetables Note: Coke is being produced for Pesach in
from Israel require that Terumos and Maasros be California this year. Coke will be available in Boston,
taken. Leafy vegetables require the same level Baltimore-Washington, Miami, and Atlanta as well.
of inspection for insects as during the rest of the All the Passover Coke items will be marked with
year. This is a particular concern for many who a distinctive yellow cap in addition to the O/UP
use romaine lettuce for the Mitzvah of Marror. To symbol on the cap or shoulder of the bottle.
avoid this problem, some choose to use romaine EGGS
stalks only, which are easier to rinse and check for It is best to buy eggs that were laid before Pesach.
insects. There are romaine lettuce stalks and other This is because chickens are usually given feed
produce certified for Pesach that are not checked for which is Chometz. Therefore, there is a minhag
insects. One needs to make sure that the Hechscher (custom) not to eat eggs which were laid on Pesach.
covers both the Pesach and insect issues. This year
additional care must be taken that no Shmitta issues Note: Eggs do not require a Hechscher, even when
exist. pasteurized.
SODA MILK
When determining whether a type of soda is Kosher Due to the modern pasteurizing processes used in
for Pesach, there are three major ingredients with the milk industry, many nutrients are inadvertently
which we are concerned. They are brominated removed.
vegetable oil, flavorings, and sugar. Governmental regulations dictate that Vitamin D,12
and in some cases, Vitamin A be added to Extra Virgin Olive Oil with reliable Hashgacha
milk before its sale. The amounts added (year-round) Is recommended for Pesach use, even
are very minute. Inasmuch as Vitamins A and D without special Pesach certification. The same
are often derived from Chometz or kitniyos, and applies to many coconut oils (see listings)
since mixtures of even small amounts of Chometz SUPERMARKETS
on Pesach are not “batel” (annulled), we must be
cautious concerning milk which contains these One of the major conveniences that is enjoyed
additives. in many parts of the United States, is being able
to shop in our large National supermarket chains
Another matter of concern is the processing for Kosher items all year and in particular, for
equipment. Milk companies often produce Pesach. Along with this convenience, however,
chocolate milk on the same equipment that they comes a responsibility to check well for the
use for their plain “white” milk. The chocolate Pesach certification on each item we buy. It is not
milk may contain malt, which is made from grain. uncommon for non-Pesach items to be found on
In order to avoid these problems, two steps are the Pesach designated shelves. Be careful to only
necessary. First, it is necessary to make sure that the buy in original packaging and not items repacked.
dairy company whose milk we purchase for Pesach
processes only plain “white” milk and not chocolate MARSHMALLOWS & GELATINS
milk. Secondly, the milk that we need for all of Although many “Kosher for Passover“ marshmallows
Pesach must be bought before Pesach. By doing are presumably made without Chometz ingredients,
so, the vitamins in the milk are deemed “batel” nevertheless, they may contain an ingredient which
(annulled) from before Pesach (since Bitul works if is highly controversial (for year round use), namely,
the mixture occurs before Pesach), and therefore, gelatin. The main sources of gelatin are cattle and
may be used on Pesach. Whenever possible, hogs.
certified Kosher for Passover milk is preferable. Today, much of the gelatin produced in the U.S. is
MILK SUBSTITUTES made from the skin or hides of pigs, since It is much
Many people i.e., infants, elderly, those who are cheaper than making gelatin from cow bones. Fish
ill etc. often warrant consuming kitniyos but not gelatin, therefore, is the most commonly - used
Chometz. The following products (partial list) are Kosher gelatin in modern times. The Gemorrah
free of actual Chometz: Pesachim 76b says that it is dangerous to eat meat
and fish together. Nevertheless, many Poskim allow
Infant Formula - Alsoy, CVS, EnfaCare, Enfamil, fish marshmallows with meat since the amount of
Enfapro, Giant, Heinz Nurture, Isomil, Mother’s gelatin (fish based) is very little and considered to
Choice, Nestle Good Start, Next Step,ProSobee, be “Batel ‘’. Therefore, it is common today to find
Rite Aid, Safeway Select, Similac, Target, Walgreens, Kosher Marshmallows with Kosher “fish” gelatin,
Wegmens’. under reliable Hashgachas that are Pareve and
Soy Milk - 365 Everyday Value (original, Light and Kosher for Pesach.
Unsweetened), Fit & Active, Hy-Vee, Market Basket
Pet Food
(unsweetened), Meijer, Nature’s Place, Nature’s
Promise Organic, Shoprite, Stop & Shop. One of the many challenges of Pesach is finding
Halachically permissible pet food. There are two
Almond Milk - 365 Everyday Value, Kroger, Market
separate Kashrus issues about which one should be
Basket, Meijer, Nature’s Place, Ralphs, ShopRite,
aware. One is related specifically to Pesach, and the
Trader Joe’s.
other related to the rest of the year as well. The year
Rice Milk - Original Clearly Organic, Harris Teeter, -round problem concerns the mixing of milk and
Krasdale Organic, Meijer, Nature’s Promise, Rice meat. It states three times in the Torah “Lo Sevashel
Dream (unsweetened only), ShopRite. G’dee Bachalev Imo”. Literally, this is a prohibition
Note: all of the above are best in liquid form and against cooking milk and meat together. However,
bought before Pesach. from the fact that the Torah states this three times,
and uses the term Gedee (kid), the Gemorrah
OIL
(Talmud) in Chulin (113A 115B) explains this to
Oil from olives, palm, coconut, and walnuts are mean that milk from any Kosher species and meat
acceptable for Pesach with a proper Kosher for from any Kosher species (i.e., beef mixed with
Pesach Hashgacha. This is because the fruit they are cow’s milk or goat’s milk etc.) are forbidden to: a)
extracted from is not kitniyos. Minchas Yitzchok be cooked together, b) be eaten together, c) derive
(lll:138:2) suggests that cottonseed oil is kitniyos, but benefit or pleasure from them. These prohibitions
in a subsequent teshuva (IV:113:3), he reconsiders (from the Torah) do not apply to poultry or venison.
this position. In the U.S., cottonseed oil is generally In order to avoid confusion, the Rabanan (Rabbis)
not considered to be kitniyos but in Eretz Yisroel extended the prohibition of eating milk and meat
there are those who refrain from using it. together to include poultry and venison. However,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
deriving benefit from poultry mixed with milk was grouts, hulled) & spelt in dog and cat foods today.
not included in this decree. Therefore, chicken with Other Chometz ingredients are Brewer’s Yeast,
whey, milk or cheese is permissible in pet food. Gluten, Malt, Pasta, Starch and Xanthan Gum.
Commonly, dog and cat foods contain milk and Almost all dry pet foods list wheat or oats as their
meat mixtures, and therefore, are forbidden to first ingredient. This is true for fish food and bird
Jewish pet owners all year round. There is an foods as well.
additional problem for a Jew who is a pet owner Note: Only clay or wood-based Kitty Litter may be
during Pesach. The basis for this problem is that used on Pesach, as others may contain Chometz.
Chometz carries with it three “Isurim” (prohibitions) Abound Grain Free Canned Cat Food
a) Hanaah (benefit), b) Ownership, c) Baal Yimatze
(it must be completely removed from a person’s Additional Animal-Related Concern: Often the
premises). A person who owns a pet is obligated products that one may purchase at a local zoo to
to feed It in a timely manner, and due to the feed the animals contain Chometz and should not
prohibition of deriving any pleasure or benefit be purchased or fed to the animals on Pesach.
from Chometz, we are not permitted to use or Be sure to check the ingredients on the label to be
own pet food containing any type of Chometz on sure there is no obvious chometz ingredients.
Pesach. Therefore, it is important to be aware of Cat Food
the prevalent use of the five grains: wheat (germ,
cracked, flour, gluten, ground, grouts, middlings, Blue Freedom Grain Free Indoor (canned –
starch), rye, barley (cracked flour), oats (flour, Chicken for Kittens, Chicken for Cats, Fish, Flaked
Chicken in Tasty Gravy, Chicken for Mature Cats)14
Evanger’s (when bearing CrC Passover were acceptable in the past, have started including
approval) oatmeal in new formulations and should NOT be
Friskies (canned – Pate Chicken and Tuna Dinner, used.
Pate Classic Seafood Entrée, Pate Turkey and Giblets, Turtles
Pate Country Style Dinner, Pate Mariners Catch, Pate
Fluker’s Turtle Diet for Aquatic Turtles
Salmon Dinner, Pate Poultry Platter, Pate Mixed Grill,
Pate Liver and Chicken Dinner), Reptiles
Kirkland (Costco) (dry – Healthy Weight Indoor Crested Gecko – Repashy Crested Gecko Meal
Adult, Maintenance Chicken & Rice, Natures Domain Replacement Powder
Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato) Adult Bearded Dragons – Fluker’s Buffet Blend
Merrick Grain Free Limited Ingredient Diet Birds (Parrots, Parakeets, Cockatiels, Canaries
(canned – Real Chicken, Real Duck, Real Salmon, and Macaws)
Real Turkey, Real Tuna)
Notes about birds: Millet and Sorghum can
Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free (dry – Adult
serve as main diet
Weight Control, Real Chicken and Sweet Potato,
Healthy Kitten Peanuts, Sunflower Seeds, and Safflower Seeds
can also be given
Prescription Diet – a/d, d/d Venison & Green Pea,
r/d, s/d, t/d, z/d Larger birds, such as parrots, can eat pure alfalfa
pellets (make sure it is pure alfalfa since it is
Wellness Core Grain-Free (dry – Adult, Indoor,
common to add grains) or dry dog food.
Kitten, Original)
Smaller birds can also have pure alfalfa pellets, crush
Wellness Core Grain-Free Classic Pate (canned –
before feeding
Indoor, Kitten, Whitefish & Salmon & Herring)
Can supplement with cottage cheese, rice cakes
Dog Food (birds like to eat these), small pieces of lean meat,
Blue Freedom Grain Free (canned – Chicken Matzah, berries, eggs, canned baby fruits. All large
Recipe: Small Breed, Puppies, Grillers: Hearty Lamb, food should be shredded before serving. These
Hearty Chicken, Hearty Turkey) items should be given sparingly.
Evangers - When bearing cRc Passover approval For minerals, they can have oyster shells (calcium) or
Kirkland (Costco) Natures’ Domain (dry – Salmon, mineral block.
Meal and Sweet Potato, Turkey Meal and Sweet The greater the variety, the better.
Potato, Organic Chicken & Pea, Puppy Chicken &
Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Gerbils & Rabbits
Pea)
It is best to feed pure alfalfa pellets to these animals.
Prescription Diet – a/d, d/d, h/d, s/d, u/d, r/d
Make sure the pellets are pure alfalfa since it is
Purina Pro Plan Grain-Free (canned – Adult Beef common to add grains. Dried alfalfa may also be
& Pea Entrée, Adult Chicken & Carrot Entrée, Adult given.
Turkey, Duck & Quail Entrée, Adult Beef & Venison
One can also supplement with a mixture of cut-
Entrée
up fruits and vegetables such as: carrots, broccoli,
Wellness Core Grain Free (canned – Beef & Venison apples, melon, kale, parsley, oranges, celery, dry
& Lamb, Puppy, Turkey & Chicken Liver & Turkey corn, sunflower seeds, and cabbage. One can also
Liver, Whitefish & Salmon & Herring give Matzah. If the animal is not used to eating any
Wellness Core Grain Free Ninety Five Percent of these Items, give sparingly.
(canned – Beef with Carrots, Chicken with Broccoli, Guinea pigs will especially benefit from kale,
Turkey with Spinach parsley, and oranges
Pure Timothy Hay is NOT chometz and may be used.
Fish Food Hamsters especially will benefit from apples.
Fish food and vacation blocks often contain Guinea pigs will especially benefit from kale, parsley,
Chometz. The following are acceptable fish food for and oranges as well as vitamin C added to their diet.
Pesach: Mice and rats will eat sunflower seeds, greens,
Pro Balance Vacation Feeder (3 days) vegetables, and potatoes.
Pro Balance Betta Vacation Feeder (7 days) More Pet Food Information
Zoo Med Laboratories Giant Plankton Banquet Mixes sold in stores often contain chometz. It is
Block Feeder. advisable for pet owners to slowly wean their pets
Note: Tetra Tropical Slow- Release Feeders, which off their regular chometz pet food diet. This is best15
accomplished by mixing regular and Pesach food Natural Almond Flour (O/K), Kirkland
between one and two weeks before Pesach before (Kof-K)
switching completely to Pesach food. The ratio of Aluminum Foil and Pans - All uncoated without
regular and Pesach food should be changed slowly release agent
to get the animal used to the new diet. Check with Ant & Roach Spray - All
your vet before changing your pet’s diet. Antacid - Tums (Kitniyos), Zantac, Pepcid, Rolaids
Note: One may shop at Petco and Petsmart stores (contains animal glycerin and Kitniyos)
immediately after Pesach. Ammonia - All
Aluminum Disposable Containers - All uncoated
without release agent
ITEMS THAT MAY BE USED Avocado Oil – Chosen Foods, Wegmans
WITHOUT PESACH CERTIFICATION Baby Bottles - Since they come into contact with
Chometz during the year, new bottles should be
(FOR 5782-2022) purchased for Pesach use.
Abdominal Discomfort - Adwe Stool Softener, Baby Food - Gerber (O/U) Carrots Squash
Alka - Seltzer (original effervescent Tablets), (acceptable for Pesach l’chatchila even for adults).
Dramamine (original (dairy), less drowsy tablets Green Beans and peas are kitniyos.
(dairy), chewable tablet (orange), Konsyl Powder Baby Formula - These products are NOT certified
Original formula - Unflavored (no kitniyos), Gelusil kosher for Pesach use by the O/U, however, the
tablets, Diclegis (for nausea and vomiting of O/U has identified these products as Halachically
pregnancy - COR), Imodium A-D (Caplets, Oral acceptable for infants and those who are ill. These
Solution), Metamucil 4 in 1 Original Coarse Powder products must bear an O/U or O/UD symbol (should
(no Kitniyos), Orange Smooth Powder (Regular be prepared in separate utensils, away from Pesach
& Sugar-Free), Miralax Powder, Phillips Milk of kitchen area, as they contain Kitniyos) 365 Everyday
Magnesia (unflavored, Original Liquid - no Kitniyos) Value, Ameribella, American’s Choice For Baby,
and Orange Smooth Powder Regular & Sugar Free, Baby Basics, Baby’s Choice, Cottontails, CVS, Earth’s
Pepcid, Pepto Bismol (Original Liquid), Phillips’ Milk Best, EnfaCare (all liquids and powders), Enfamil,
of Magnesia (Original Liquid no Kitniyos), Rolaids Enfagrow, Gerber Good Start, Giant, Heinz Nurture,
(animal glycerin and Kitniyos), Bicarbonate of Soda, Isomil (all liquids & powders) Kirkland Signature,
Senokot (Extra Strength Tablets (dairy) & Senokot- Meijer Baby, Mother’s Choice, Nestle Good Start,
extra strength Tablets (dairy), Zantac (not liquid), Next Step,Nutraenfant, President’s Choice, Riteaid,
Imodium, Gas-X Signature Care, Similac (all liquids & powders), Stop
Agave - Health Garden Organic Raw Agave & Shop, Target, Walgreens, Wegmans
Sweetener (O/K) Baby Laundry Detergent - Dreft (Proctor &
Air Freshener - All Gamble – O/U), Essential Everyday (O/U), Seventh
Generation (O/U)
Alcohol - All Isopropyl
Baby Oil - All pure
Alcoholic Beverages - Patron Silver Tequila,
Vinprom-Troyan Brandy - apple, apricot, pear and Baby Ointment - All (according to the O/U)
plum Brandy (Star-K) Baby Medicine - Advil Children’s Junior Strength
Almond Milk Original - (Kitniyos - To be used only Tablets, Bayer Children’s Aspirin, Benadryl Children’s
for the infirm and children who need an alternative Allergy Liquid (Cherry, Dye-Free Liquid, Bubble
to standard milk on Pesach. Utensils used for Gum, Plus Congestion - Grape), MiraLax Powder,
this product should be washed separately) 365 Motrin Infant’ Drops - Dye-Free Berry, Motrin
Everyday Value (O/U), Almond Breeze Original Children’s Suspension - bubble Gum, Berry, and
& Unsweetened (O/U), Almondsense (O/U), Cal- Dye-Free Berry, Pedialyte, Sudafed Children’s Nasal
Pure Almond Meal Blanched-Raw (O/U), Essential Decongestant - Grape, Sudafed PE Children’s Nasal
Everyday (O/U), Fred Meyer (O/U), Fresh & Easy Decongestant - Berry, Sudafed PE Children’s Cold
(O/U), Friendly Farms (O/U), Full Circle (O/U), Golden & Cough - Grape, Tylenol Infants’ Oral Suspension -
Orchard (O/U), H-E-B (O/U), Hy-Vee (O/U), Laura Lynn Grape, Tylenol Children’s Suspension - Cherry
(O/U), Market Basket (O/U), Meijer (O/U), Natural Baby Powder - All pure Talcum Powders (such as
Direction (O/U), Nature’s Place (O/U), Paramount Johnsons) - Any not listing oat flour as an ingredient.
Farms Meal (O/U), Price Chopper (O/U), Roundy’s Baby/Pediatric Electrolytes - The O/U has
(O/U), Shoprite (O/U), Silk (O/U), So Delicious identified the following products as Halachically
Unsweetened (O/U), Sunnyside Farms (O/U), Tree of acceptable for infants and those who are ill even
Life (O/U), Winn-Dixie (O/U). though these products are NOT certified Kosher
Almond Flour/Meal: Barney Basics (O/U), Blue for Pesach by the O/U for the general public.
Diamond Growers Fine and X-Fine Blanched and These products must bear an O/U or O/UDYou can also read
