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SCROLL K VAAD HAKASHRUS OF DENVER 245 S. Benton Street Lakewood, Colorado 80226 Ph. 303-595-9349 www.scrollk.org VOLUME XXVIII ISSUE I ADAR 5778/ MARCH 2018 Rabbi Moshe Heisler Kashrus Administrator, Emeritus

Rabbi Elchonon Joseph 0 Dear Friends, Kashrus Administrator With the help of Hashem, we present the latest edition of Rabbi Yisroel Rosskamm Kashrus Komments. This newsletter features a new design and many Rabbinical Administrator upgrades we hope you will enjoy. We have exerted much effort to create a most user-friendly and informative Pesach guide. If you have Rabbi Hillel Erlanger Rabbi Michoel Fleischmann questions, concerns, comments or information you would like to see Rabbi Mordechai Rotstein published in the future, please let us know! Additionally, information Rabbi Yaakov Zions about additional items and/or clarifications can often be obtained by 0Kashrus Coordinators calling our offices.

The Scroll K/Vaad Hakashrus of Denver is an affiliate of Congregation Zera With Blessings for a Kosher, Happy and Healthy Pesach, Abraham, Denver, Colorado. Rabbi Elchonon Joseph Rabbi Yisroel Rosskamm Kashrus Administrator Rabbinical Administrator

In This Issue: Selling Chometz ...... 3 Pesach 5778/ 2018 Calendar ...... 4 Kashering ...... 4 Pesach Item List ...... 5 Food Items ...... 5 Houshold Items ...... 8 Cosmetics and Personal Care Products ...... 9 Medicines ...... 11 Pesach Preps ...... 11 Purchasing Chometz After Pesach ...... 15 More Kosher Komments ...... 15 Articles: Kitniyos By Any Other Name ...... 17 Eating Matzah on Erev Pesach ...... 20 History and Halacha: Mechiras Chometz ...... 22 Fit For The King: An Overview of Bishul Akum ...... 24 The Seder in Good Measure………………………………………………………………………………………...………….28

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SELLING CHOMETZ During the Yom Tov of Pesach, beginning from Erev Pesach, it is prohibited to eat or possess chometz, as the states (Shemos 12:15): “On the day before Pesach you shall get rid of all leaven from your house.” Chometz may include items made from one or more of the five grains: wheat, barley, rye, oat or spelt. Examples of such items include: bread, cookies, crackers, noodles, beer, whiskey and grain vinegar. Even if a product contains only a small percentage of chometz, it may neither be eaten by nor be in the possession of a Jew during Pesach. Any chometz which was owned by a Jew during Pesach may not be benefited from even after Pesach. In order to observe this law, it is permissible to sell the chometz to a non-Jew prior to Pesach and then buy it back after Pesach. This transaction is known as mechiras chometz. Mechiras chometz is done using a bill of sale. To assure that all legal requirements, according to both Torah and secular law, are fulfilled, it is customary to delegate power of attorney to a Rabbi for him to sell the chometz. It is preferable to appoint a rabbi in person; however, if this is difficult, one may authorize a Rabbi by using the following document (The text was taken from the Madrich Lakashrus, Vol. 3 No. 13, written by Rabbi Sinai Halberstam, shlita). —————— ✂———————————————————————————————————————————✂———— DELEGATION OF POWER OF ATTORNEY I, the undersigned, fully empower and permit Rabbi Yisroel Rosskamm to act in my place and stead, and in my behalf to sell all chometz possessed by me (knowingly or unknowingly) as defined by The Torah and Rabbinic Law (e.g. chometz, doubt of chometz, and all kind of chometz mixtures). This includes chometz that tends to harden and to adhere to the inside surface of pans, pots or cooking and usable utensils, and all kinds of live animals that have been eating chometz or mixtures thereof, and to lease all places wherein the chometz owned by me may be found, especially in the premises located at ______and elsewhere. Rabbi Yisroel Rosskamm has the full right to sell and to lease by transactions, as he deems fit and proper and for such time which he believes necessary in accordance with all detailed terms and detailed forms as explained in the general authorization contracts which have been given this year to Rabbi Yisroel Rosskamm to sell the chometz. This general authorization is made a part of this agreement. Also do I hereby give the said Rabbi Yisroel Rosskamm full power and authority to appoint a substitute in his stead with full power to sell and to lease as provided herein. The above given power is in conformity with all Torah, Rabbinical regulations and laws, and also in accordance with the laws of the State of Colorado and of the United States. And to this I hereby affix my signature on this day, __ of the month of ______, in the year _____. Signature ______Printed Name ______Address______City______State______Zip______Telephone Number (______)______Email address ______@______The completed form may be returned to 245 S. Benton Street, Lakewood, Colorado 80226 or [email protected].

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Pesach 5778/ 2018

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Shabbos 9 Nissan 10 Nissan 11 Nissan 12 Nissan 13 Nissan 14 Nissan 15 Nissan March 25 March 26 March 27 March 28 March 29 March 30 March 31 Erev 1st Day of Kashering Kashering Pesach Pesach service at service at Latest time for eating chometz:  Aish Zera 10:58 AM* Candle 3-5 PM Abraham Latest time for lighting: (not burning chometz: before) 8:04  EDOS 6-7 PM 12:01 PM* 7-9 PM Candle PM  lighting: 7:04 PM  16 Nissan 17 Nissan 18 Nissan 19 Nissan 20 Nissan 21 Nissan 22 Nissan April 1 April 2 April 3 April 4 April 5 April 6 April 7 2nd Day of 3rd Day of 4th Day of 5th Day of 6th Day of 7th Day of 8th Day of Pesach Pesach Pesach Pesach Pesach Pesach Pesach (Omer: 1) (Chol Hamoed) (Chol (Chol (Chol (Omer: 6) (Yizkor) (Omer: 2) Hamoed) Hamoed) Hamoed) Candle (Omer: 7) (Omer: 3) (Omer: 4) (Omer: 5) lighting 7:11 Pesach ends Candle PM 8:12 PM lighting: 7:10  PM 

*According to some opinions, the last time latest time for eating and burning chometz is 10: 34 AM and 11:49 AM respectively. The Halachic times above for Denver, and are courtesy of myzmanim.com. For Boulder, delay all times 1-2 minutes. For Colorado Springs, advance all times 1-2 minutes.

KASHERING The Scroll K provides complimentary kashering services for portable items before Pesach. The times and locations for 5778/2018 are as follows:  In Southeast Denver/ Greenwood Village: In conjunction with Aish Denver, on Sunday, March 25th, 2018, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 9550 East Bellevue Avenue, Greenwood Village, Colorado.  NEW! In East Denver: In conjunction with EDOS, on Sunday, March 25th, 2018, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 198 South Holly Street, Denver, Colorado.  In West Denver: in conjunction with Congregation Zera Abraham, on Tuesday, March 27th, 2018, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at 1560 Winona Court, Denver, Colorado. Please don’t use items for 24 hours prior to koshering. For more information, contact the Scroll K at 303-595- 9349. The Scroll K also provides complimentary koshering of home kitchens and household items throughout the year.

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Pesach Item List With the help of Hashem, we are proud to present to the kosher consumer information about Kosher for Pesach products available in the Rocky Mountain region. This listing begins with foods, and indicates which foods require Pesach certification, as well as those foods for which a year-round certification is sufficient or no certification at all is necessary. A listing of non-food items follows, since the use of inedible items containing chometz is prohibited during Pesach. Medicines and cosmetics free of chometz are mentioned as well. Products which are certified for Pesach should have the “Kosher for Pesach” or “P” designation printed on the product label next to the regular kosher certification emblem. Stickers imprinted with the “Kosher for Pesach” designation which are added to existing labels should not be relied upon, unless the sticker also states the name of the Rabbi or kashrus organization which certifies it as such. Items listed as Chometz indicates it definitely, or with high probability, contains Chometz. These items may not remain in a Jew’s possession over Pesach. Chometz includes all leavened foods, drinks or ingredients which are made from or contain a mixture of wheat, rye, barley, oat, or spelt. Therefore, all grain products or mixtures of grain, such as bread, grain vinegar and malt, are forbidden for the duration of Pesach. They must be destroyed or placed in a designated, sealed place and sold to a non-Jew before Pesach. Items listed as Kitniyos are customarily not consumed on Pesach by Ashkenazic Jews. They may be retained in one’s possession over Pesach. The information listed is limited to what was available to us at the time of printing. For any additional information or if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to call us at 303-595- 9349. Food Items Agave Nectar-Pesach certification Baking Powder -Pesach Carrots, baby -no certification required certification required required, if purchase prior to Alcohol, Baking Soda - no certification Pesach  for drinking - Pesach certification required Cat food, see Pet food required. Bean Sprouts -Kitniyos Cereal -Pesach certification  Isopropyl Alcohol - no Beans -Kitniyos required certification required Benefiber® - Chometz Cheese -Pesach certification Alfalfa - Kitniyos Beverages -Pesach certification required Amaranth -Pesach certification required with the exception of Cheese spreads -Pesach required unflavored water. certification required Anise -Kitniyos Bicarbonate of Soda -no Chewable pills, see medicine Apple Juice -Pesach certification certification required section, required Bird feed, see Pet food Chickpeas -Kitniyos Apple Sauce -Pesach certification Borscht- Pesach certification Chocolate -Pesach certification required required required Aspartame -Kitniyos Brewerʼs Yeast - Chometz Cloves – some have a custom not to Baby carrots, see carrots. Brown sugar, see sugar use cloves for Pesach. Baby Food -Pesach certification Buckwheat -Kitniyos Cocoa – Pesach certification required Butter -Pesach certification required. Hershey’s® (with the Baby Formula - Enfamil®, Isomil®, required exception of Special Dark) is Prosobee®, Similac® and Cake - Pesach certification required acceptable without Pesach Soyalac® are acceptable without Candy- Pesach certification certification. Pesach certification. Since they required Coconut, shredded -Pesach contain Kitniyos, they should be Canned fruits or vegetables, see certification required used with designated utensils Fruits and Vegetables Coffee Whitener -Pesach only. Canola Oil -Kitniyos certification required Caraway Seeds - Kitniyos Coffee

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 unflavored-no certification Fennel Isolated Soy Protein – Kitniyos required (with the exception of  Leaves – no certification required Invert sugar - Pesach certification chicory)  Seeds - Kitniyos required  decaffeinated and flavored - Fenugreek -Kitniyos Jelly and Preserves - Pesach Pesach certification required Fish - Fresh and frozen fish without certification required (Sanka® decaffeinated coffee, added ingredients, acceptable Juice – acceptable with OKP symbol.) without Pesach certification.  in cartons or containers, Pesach  Postum and Mellow Roast - Guidelines for purchasing kosher certification required. Realemon® Chometz fish are published at and Realime®, acceptable without  instant -Pesach certification https://scrollk.org/purchasing- Pesach certification. required (Folgerʼs® and Tasterʼs kosher-fish/  frozen - 100% pure frozen orange Choice® Regular are acceptable.) Fish food, see Pet food juice or grapefruit juice, both Coffee filters - no certification Flavors - Pesach certification from concentrate only, without required required added citric acid, vitamin C, Coffee whitener - Pesach Food coloring - Pesach certification sweeteners, additives or certification required required preservatives, acceptable without Confectioners sugar, see sugar Fruit, certification. Cookies - generally Chometz.  canned – Pesach certification K-cups - Pesach certification Some Kosher for Pesach cookies required required are available  dried - Pesach certification Kasha (Buckwheat) - Kitniyos Cooking Spray -Pesach required, since flour and/or Ketchup - Pesach certification certification required kitniyos are used in the drying required Cooking -Pesach certification process. Kishke – Pesach certification required  frozen - Unsweetened whole fruit required Coriander -Kitniyos without syrup or other Lactaid®– Corn -Kitniyos ingredients, acceptable without  milk, may be used if purchased Cranberries certification. before Pesach.  Dried -Pesach certification  preserves - Pesach certification  chewable pills – not acceptable required required  non-chewable pills are acceptable  Fresh or frozen (without  juice, see Juice Laxatives – see Medicine section additives)-no certification Garlic, peeled - Pesach certification below required required Lemon Juice, see Juice Cumin - Kitniyos - Pesach certification Lemon Peel - If it is a product of Dates – Pesach certification required Israel, it would require reliable required Grape Juice - Pesach certification certification. Otherwise, any Decaffeinated coffee or tea - required purchased prior to Pesach, Pesach certification required Grapeseed Oil - Pesach acceptable without certification. Desert gels & puddings, Pesach certification required Lentils - Kitniyos certification required Green Beans – Kitniyos Liquor - Pesach certification Dill Leaves - no certification Gum - Pesach certification required required required Herbal tea, see Tea Mandarin Oranges (pieces) - Dill Seeds –Kitniyos Honey – Pesach certification Pesach certification required Dog food, see Pet food required Margarine - Pesach certification Dried fruit, see Fruit Horseradish, processed - Pesach required Edamame - Kitniyos certification required Matzah - Pesach certification Eggs – Ice - no certification required required  no certification required, if Ice Cream, Ices, Sorbet and Mayonnaise - Pesach certification purchased prior to Pesach Sherbet – Pesach certification required  liquid eggs require Pesach required Meat – certification Instant coffee or tea – see Coffee, Ensure® - Chometz Tea

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 Raw meat that bears a reliable all- Olives, canned or bottled– Pesach special “Kosher for Pesach” year kashrus certification is also certification required seal. kosher for Pesach after rinsing. Orange Juice, see Juice Prunes - Pesach certification  Pickled raw meats, Pesach Orange Peel - If it is a product of required certification required Israel, it would require reliable Pudding - Pesach certification Milk – certification. Otherwise, any required  Fresh, unflavored, purchased purchased prior to Pesach, Pumpkin seeds – not Kitniyos and prior to Pesach, acceptable acceptable without certification. are acceptable when raw and without certification. Pam® – Pesach certification without additives. ®  Meyenberg Goat Milk products required Quinoa - Pesach certification (Scroll K certified) are acceptable Pasta – generally Chometz. Some required. for Pesach use when purchased Kosher for Pesach pasta is Raisins –Any retail package with prior to Pesach. available. OU certification, is acceptable  dry - Pesach certification required Peanuts – Kitniyos (according to without Pesach certification. Millet – Kitniyos many opinions) Rice - Kitniyos (for those who Mineral water - no certification Peas – Kitniyos consume kitniyos on Pesach, required if it does not contain Pecans, see Nuts reliable Pesach certification flavors or vitamins. Pet Food may contain chometz. It would be necessary as rice Mushrooms – is forbidden to derive any benefit companies may use a chometz  raw - acceptable without from Chometz on Pesach which enzyme to facilitate the certification includes allowing one’s animals processing.) Saffron – some have a custom not  canned, Pesach certification or pets to consume Chometz. to use saffron for Pesach. required One should either substitute other Salad, washed and bagged – Mustard and mustard flour - foods or the pets should be given Kitniyos to a non-Jew for the duration of  When containing only shredded Non-Dairy Creamer - Pesach the holiday. Pure canary seeds iceberg lettuce or cabbage -no and sunflower seeds are certification required certification required ® Non-Stick Cooking Spray -Pesach acceptable. Many Evanger’s dog  If it contains romaine lettuce or certification required and cat food products are other vegetables which may be certified Kosher for Pesach by NutraSweet® - Pesach certification infested, year-round cerification CRC (Chicago). See required required http://www.crcweb.org/LOC/Eva Nuts – Salt – ngers.pdf for details.  Pecans (midgets and pieces) and  Non-iodized (without dextrose, Pickles - Pesach certification blanched almonds - Pesach polysorbates, or maltodextrin), required certification required acceptable without certification. Pineapple, Canned – Pesach  Peanuts - Kitniyos (according to Some acceptable brands are: certification required Mortonʼs®, Purity®, and Red many opinions) Popcorn - Kitniyos Cross®.  Raw, whole, halves or chopped Poppy Seeds - Kitniyos  Sea Salt - Non-iodized (without nuts (e.g., cashews, hazelnuts, Potato Chips - Pesach certification dextrose, polysorbates, or pine nuts, walnuts, etc.) without required maltodextrin), acceptable without preservatives or other additives Potatoes, peeled - Pesach certification. such as BHT, BHA or corn oil, certification required are acceptable without Poultry –  Himalayan salt, acceptable certification. without certification.  Raw chicken that bears reliable ® Oil and Shortening - Pesach all-year kashrus certification is Salt Substitutes - Freedaʼs Free ® certification required also kosher for Pesach after Salt and No Salt (unseasoned) - Olive Oil – All 100% Extra Virgin rinsing. Kitniyos Olive Oil bearing the OU  Empire Ground Turkey Salmon, see Fish certification, acceptable without Burgers (Raw) need to have Sauces - Pesach certification Pesach certification. required

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Seltzer - Any unflavored,  Pure granulated cane or beet Tomato Sauce - Pesach acceptable without Pesach sugar, acceptable without Pesach certification required certification, preferably certification. Tuna - Pesach certification purchased before Pesach.  Brown sugar - C&H® and Holly® required, (since it may contain Sesame Seeds – Kitniyos (Imperial Sugar) purchased chometz or kitniyos.) Sherbet – Pesach certification prior to Pesach, acceptable Turmeric is not kitniyos, but required without Pesach certification. ground form requires Pesach Shortening – Pesach certification  Confectioners - Pesach certification (see Spices). required certification required, since it Vanilla – Pesach certification Soup mix– Pesach certification generally contains cornstarch. required required  vanilla sugar- Pesach certification Vegetables, Snow Peas - Kitniyos required  canned - Pesach certification Soda - Pesach certification  sugar substitutes require Pesach required. required, with the exception of certification  frozen - Should have reliable unflavored seltzer. Sun Dried Tomatoes - Requires Pesach certification, (since many Sorbet - Pesach certification reliable Pesach certification. frozen vegetable processing required Sunflower Seeds - Kitniyos companies process pasta, breaded ® Sorbitan - Pesach certification Sweetener - Pesach certification vegetables, etc., on the same required required equipment.) Sorbitol® - Pesach certification Tea –  Mrs. Condies Salad Company® required  Herbal teas – Pesach certification items (Scroll K certified) are Soy products – required (they may contain acceptable for Pesach use.  Kitniyos chometz) Vegetable wash - Pesach  Soy milk and soy sauce may  Decaffeinated and flavored teas - certification required contain Chometz. Pesach certification required. Vegetable oil, see Oil Spices – Lipton® decaffeinated tea Vitamins, see Medicine section  Caraway, Fennel and Mustard are acceptable without Pesach below Kitniyos. certification. Water, unflavored - no certification  Ground spices require Pesach  Any unflavored black, white, required certification. green or orange pekoe tea bags, Wild rice, see Rice  Whole spices do not require acceptable without certification. Wine - Pesach certification required Xanthan Gum - Pesach certification.  instant - Nestea® instant ® certification required Splenda - Chometz unflavored tea, regular and Yogurt - Pesach certification Starch - Pesach certification decaffeinated, acceptable without required required Pesach certification.

Stevia® - Kitniyos Tofu – Kitniyos String beans - Kitniyos Tomato-based products – Pesach Sugar – certification required

Houshold Items

Air Freshener – Bags- no certification required oil soap, Spic & Span®, and Surf®,  liquid, requires reliable Pesach Bleach - no certification required acceptable without Pesach certification; Bleach wipes - no certification certification.  solid, acceptable without required Coffee Filters - Acceptable without Pesach certification. Candles - no certification required Pesach certification. Aluminum products - no Charcoal - no certification required Contact Paper - no certification certification required Cleanser - Bon Ami®, Comet®, required Ammonia - no certification required Fantastic®, Mr. Clean®, Murphy® Crock Pot Liners - no certification

This Page Is Sponsored In Memory Of Hymie Kernis A”H, Upon His Yarzeit By Jerry and Linda Kernis

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required cornstarch is sprayed into some Plastic cutlery, see Disposable Cupcake Liners – Untreated, paper household gloves. Plastic Wrap - no certification or foil, acceptable without Pesach Glue - Elmerʼs®, acceptable without required certification. Pesach certification. Plates, see Disposable Cutlery, see Disposable Ink - no certification required Play Dough (e.g. Play-Doh®, Dish soap - no certification required Isopropyl Alcohol - no certification Crayola® Modeling Dough, Detergent, laundry – see laundry required ALEX® dough) - Chometz detergent Latex, see Gloves Polish, furniture - no certification Dishwashing Detergent - Colgate®, Laundry Detergent, required Palmolive® (lemon or regular),  liquid - Cheer®, Dash®, Sanitizers (e.g. Purell®) - may Dawn®, Ivory®, and Joy®, Dreft®, Era®, Ivory®, and contain chometz acceptable without Pesach Tide®, acceptable without Scouring Pads - no certification certification. Pesach certification. required Disposable cups, dishes or cutlery -  powder - with an OU symbol, Shoe Polish - no certification no certification required acceptable without Pesach required Fabric Softeners - no certification certification. Silver Polish - Haggerty® and required Napkins - no certification required Rokeach®, acceptable without Finger Paints - May contain Oven Cleaner - Dow®, Easy-off®, Pesach certification. chometz. and Mr. Muscle®, acceptable Sticking Paste (Yamato®) - Furniture Polish - no certification without Pesach certification. Contains chometz. required Parchment Paper – Pesach Styrofoam, see Disposable Glass Cleaner - Glass Plus® and certification required Tissues - no certification required Windex® (without vinegar) - no Paper products, see Disposable Tums® - not acceptable certification required Paper Towels - The first three sheets Toothpicks – no certification Gloves, disposable or reusable – and the last three sheets should not required unless flavored or colored. acceptable without Pesach come into direct contact with food, Waxed Paper – no certification certification. Unless they are since a corn starch based glue may required labeled as powder-free, they should have been used. Wood chips– no certification be washed inside and out, since Plastic Bags - no certification required required Wrap, plastic, see Plastic Wrap

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products If you don’t see the item you’re searching for, or need further clarification, please feel free to call our office. We have information on many specific brands and products that indicate if they contain chometz.

Baby Ointment - no certification required  no certification required unless it contains oatmeal. Baby Oil - no certification required  Coast Urban Fuel®, Mary Kay® and Phisoderm® Baby Powder – products may contain chometz.  Baby Magic® may contain chometz. Braces – wax for braces is acceptable without certification,  Johnsonʼs® Baby Powder and all talcum powders, rubber bands should be washed before placing in mouth. acceptable without Pesach certification. Colognes – Many contain denatured alcohol which is Baby Wipes - any without alcohol (including denatured problematic. Please contact our office regarding specific alcohol), acceptable without Pesach certification. brands and items. Mary Kay® should be avoided. Bandages, adhesive (Band-aids®) - no certification required Conditioner - see Shampoo and Conditioner Blush - Cover Girl®, Mac® Bronzing Powder- Refined Contact Lens Solution - no certification required Golden and Max Factor® Color genius mineral bronzer are Creams – not recommended  Eucerin® Mary Kay® and Hada Labo® items may Body wash and soaps – contain Chometz.

This Page is Sponsored in Memory of Dr. Werner and Mrs. Lucy Prenzlau ר' שלמה בן יעקב ויטל בת אלעזר אליהו הכהן Upon Their Yarzeits

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 other varieties, acceptable without Pesach brands and items. Mary Kay® products should be avoided. certification. Sanitizers (e.g. Purell®) - may contain chometz Dental Floss - Any unflavored (including waxed), acceptable Shampoo and Conditioner – without Pesach certification.  no certification required Denture Cleanser - Polident® Denture Cleanser, acceptable  Herbal essences®, Infusion 23® and Pantene Pro-V® without Pesach certification. may contain chometz. Denture Cream – Shaving Lotion – with the exception of Mary Kay® after-  Quick Dentur-Eze may contain chometz. Shave Gel, there are no chometz concerns.  Dentu-Crème®, Fast Teeth®, Polident®, and Poli- Soap – see Body wash and soaps Grip®, acceptable without Pesach certification. Toothpaste – all Colgate®, Mentadent® and Orojel® are Deodorant - acceptable, with the exception of UltraMax® acceptable. Arm & Hammer® Dental Care and Gel Paste (by Arm and Hammer) which may contain chometz Toothpaste are acceptable as well. For additional brands, Eye drops - no certification required contact our office. Eyeliner and Eye Shadow – with the exception of Blinc® Vaseline®, see Petroleum jelly Exuviance, Mary Kay® Neostrata® and Vivite® (which Wax for braces– no certification required may contain chometz), no certification required. Facial Care - with the exception of Exuviance®, Mary Kay®, Neostrata®, Olay®, Oxy® Phisoderm® and Vivite® (which may contain chometz), no certification required. Scroll K Vaad Foot Powder - no certification required Hair gel - no certification required Hakashrus Hair Remover - Nair™ Hair remover lotion is acceptable Hakashrus Hair Spray - Pantene Pro-V® is acceptable. Hydrogen Peroxide - no certification required wishes all a Chag Isopropyl Alcohol - no certification required Lip Balm - Chapstick® and similar lip products, unflavored, acceptable without Pesach certification. Kasher V’sameach, Lipstick – Please contact our office regarding specific brands and items. Cover Girl® and Mary Kay® should be A Happy and avoided. Listerine® pocketpaks®- may contain chometz. Lotions – see Creams Healthy Pesach Makeup,  see individual listings for specific makeup items. Holiday!  Please contact us regarding specific brands and products.  Covergirl® Mary Kay® and Max Factor® products likely contain chometz. Mascara - no certification required Mineral Oil - no certification required Mouthwash – all Colgate®, Scope® and Oral-B® are acceptable. Listerine® Cool Mint Antiseptic, Total Care Zero, Ultraclean Antiseptic Mouthwash Cool Mint, and Zero are acceptable. Prevident® likely contains chometz. For additional brands, contact our office. Nail Polish - no certification required Nail Polish Remover - no certification required Ointments - All varieties, acceptable without Pesach certification. Orthodontics, see Braces Petroleum jelly - no certification required Perfume – Many contain denatured alcohol which is problematic. Please contact our office regarding specific

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Medicines Any medications taken for any of the following conditions may be taken on Pesach:  Anti-rejection  Heart conditions  Cancer treatments  Hypertension (elevated blood pressure)  Cholesterol  Kidney disease  Depression  Lung disease  Epilepsy  Stroke Any prescription medication taken on a regular basis for chronic conditions should only be changed after consultation with your doctor.

Antacid, chewable - Pesach certification required. Tums®  Feel free to call our office regarding specific are not acceptable. medications; we may have lists available that Injections may be taken on Pesach, even if they contain indicate if specific medications contain chometz. chometz. If they do contain chometz and a chometz-free Laxatives, alternative is not available, consult with your  Suppositories are acceptable for use on Pesach. local Rabbi and doctor for guidance.  Pills or mixes may contain Chometz. Feel free to Tablets that are unflavored may be taken on Pesach, even call us regarding specific brands. if they contain chometz. Medications Vitamins should only be used after verifying their Pesach  Liquid and chewable, may be taken on Pesach, status even if they contain kitniyos.

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Pesach Preps The Torah prohibits the possession or Conventional gas consumption of chometz (leaven) during Pesach. burners: May be Chometz may result when flour or granules of kashered by one of the one of the five species of grain (barley, oat, rye, following methods: spelt, wheat) comes into contact with water and A. Covering them is allowed to stand for 18 minutes. However, if with sheet metal or the like and turning the water is hot, chometz may result instantly. the burner on high for 10 minutes. All burners do not need to be koshered at the Vessels that were used to cook chometz may not same time. Caution: Make sure that the be used during Pesach unless they undergo a sheet metal is not too close to the kashering process. Items made from metal, counter or it may burn the counter. stone, wood or natural rubber may be B. Place the clean grates in an oven and koshered for Pesach use. Materials that may not heat it to 550ºF for one hour. be kashered include china, corningware, enamel, C. If the oven is preheated to 550ºF, placing melmac, porcelain, pottery, Pyrex, synthetic the grates in the oven for twenty minutes rubber, and Teflon. Plastic and glass should not is adequate. be kashered for Pesach. In case of necessity, D. Placing them in a self-cleaning oven for contact your rabbi. one self-clean cycle. Items that are not being kashered for Pesach Glass smooth top cooktops: The burner area should be cleaned and put away in an area that may be kashered by turning on the heat until it will not be used during Pesach. In this article, glows. The area we bring you a list of some household items that between the burners may be kashered for Pesach. Each item includes does not get hot a brief description of the preferred method of enough to be kashered kashering that item, along with some alternative and should, therefore, procedures, where appropriate. For more not be considered alternative methods, you can call our office. We kosher for Pesach. As will be glad to assist you with acceptable such, extreme care should be taken to assure methods for your situation. that hot pots do not touch this surface. During kashering, it is preferable to have Stove Top: The area of the stove top between someone present who is knowledgeable in the the burners should be cleaned and covered with laws of kashering. The Scroll K provides a free heavy aluminum foil. Caution: Make sure NOT service for kashering portable items, which will to block the vents that are made for the heat of be available at the locations and times listed on the oven to escape; blocking these areas could Page 4. cause dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Drip Pans (i.e. the pans below the burners): Ranges May be koshered using the same procedure as Conventional electric metal utensils, listed under the Pots, Pans and burners: May be kashered by Utensils category. turning the burner on the Knobs: Should be cleaned thoroughly. Some highest setting until it turns prefer to cover them with aluminum foil. red, which should take about 3 minutes.

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Range Hood: Should case with your microwave oven, cook an item be cleaned thoroughly. for 15 minutes and then carefully feel inside the Those range hoods oven. If the ovens’ inner surfaces are too hot to which become hot due touch, your microwave should not be kashered to stove top cooking for Pesach, although it may be used during should also be covered Pesach for food which is double wrapped. If the with aluminum foil. inner surfaces are merely warm and not hot, Warming Drawers: Should not be kashered for your microwave can be koshered for Pesach. To Pesach. kasher a microwave oven, clean it thoroughly Ovens and do not use it for chometz for 24 hours. Place

Conventional Gas and Electric Ovens: Clean a glass of water inside the microwave and cook the oven thoroughly, taking it until half the water is steamed away. Using special care to clean cracks, plastic wrap, cover the food tray and all inner corners and areas where surfaces which may come into contact with hot metal parts connect. It is food. best to use an oven insert Grills: Remove all food residues. If the grill has and only bake in the insert a cover, close the cover and turn onto high for during Pesach. If you do not two hours. If the grill is in an unlit area, after have an oven insert, line the about an hour you could pick up the lid and see walls, racks, and door of the oven with heavy if the grates have turned red or white, in which aluminum foil. case, the kashering of the grill itself is complete. Alternative Method: Some halachic authorities Cover the exterior areas, ledges, shelves, etc., allow the use of bare conventional ovens after with at least two layers of aluminum foil. their being thoroughly cleaned and heated at Dishwashers

550o for one hour. If you choose to follow this Dishwashers made of procedure, it is preferable to place the racks porcelain or enamel or non- from your conventional oven into a self- removable plastic parts cleaning oven for one self-clean cycle. should not be used for Self-Cleaning Ovens: Clean the oven door and Pesach. the gasket area on the door, as well as the area that the gasket touches when the oven door is Sinks closed, since these areas are not cleaned by the self-cleaning cycle. The oven may be kashered Granite and Stainless Steel Sinks: Thoroughly by turning on the oven for a self-clean cycle. clean the sink – including the crevices around After completing the self-clean cycle, some the drain – and do not use for chometz for 24 prefer to cover the glass window and the area hours. Boil water in a kosher-for-Pesach pot on between the door and the frame with aluminum a kosher-for-Pesach stove and pour it over every foil. area of the sink. It is insufficient for the water to Microwave Ovens: The only microwave ovens flow over all surfaces of the sink. Make sure which should be kashered for Pesach are those that all areas of the sink and faucet are whose inner surfaces do not become hot when completely dry before you begin pouring the they are used. To boiling water. Start at the bottom, then do the determine if this is the walls, and end with the faucet.

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Corian, Enamel and Porcelain Sinks: Clean dough should not be kashered. the sink thoroughly and cover the entire sink B) If one is concerned that an item may with contact paper, an insert or another similar become damaged due to kashering, that covering. It is advisable to pour boiling water item may not be kashered.) (same as above) over the sink before covering. 1) The items to be kashered should not be used Faucets and Handles: These may be kashered with chometz for 24 hours. for Pesach by pouring boiling water over them. 2) Thoroughly clean the items. Flatware pieces Make sure that the faucet and handles are made of two parts need to be cleaned well completely dry before pouring the water on it. where the sections connect. The tines of forks The water should be boiled in a kosher-for- and serrated edges of knives need extra care. Pesach pot on a kosher-for-Pesach stove. Using Due to the difficulty in cleaning cutlery well, a pot full of boiling water, splash the boiling some people prefer to retain a separate set for water at the underside of the faucet and pour Pesach use only. boiling water on the upper side of the faucet. 3) Use a large kosher-for-Pesach pot. Caution: It is advisable to use large rubber  Alternately, the following procedure gloves to avoid burning your hands. may be used to prepare such a pot: Take Dish Buckets, Dish Racks and Sink Racks: a large, clean pot which has not been These should be replaced with buckets and used for chometz for 24 hours. Fill it to racks dedicated for Pesach use only. the top with water and bring the water to Counter Tops a boil. Heat a stone or brick on a burner. Corian, Enamel, Formica and Siltstone Tile Drop the stone or brick into the boiling Counter Tops: Clean the counter and cover it water so that the boiling water spills with contact paper or the like. over the rim of the pot. Pour out the hot Granite, Marble, Stone and Wood Counters: water and rinse the pot with cold water. May be kashered by pouring boiling water over 4) Fill the large pot with enough water to be them, provided they are pure marble or stone able to completely immerse the items. Bring the without other material mixed into them. Clean water to a rolling boil. Immerse each item for a the counter and pour hot water boiled in a few seconds. Should the water stop boiling, wait kosher-for-Pesach pot on a kosher-for-Pesach until it resumes its rolling boil. When kashering stove over it. The grout should be covered with two or more items simultaneously, be certain tape, contact paper or similar material. that they are not touching each other. The Metal Counter Tops: Clean the counter and boiling water must reach every area of each pour over it hot water boiled in a kosher-for- item, including handles. NOTE: If the entire Pesach pot on a kosher-for-Pesach stove. item does not fit into the pot at one time, one may kasher one part at a time. 5) Remove the kashered items and rinse them in

Pots, Pans, Utensils cold water. Metal or Wooden (without cracks) Pots, Pans, Please note that you will need to re-kasher the Utensils, Cutlery, Cutting Boards and Pot large pot if you want to use it for Pesach. An Rests: additional 24-hour waiting period is not (Exceptions: required. A) Equipment Metal Wine Goblets: It is a custom to kasher used for wine goblets for Pesach even if they are only

P a g e | 15 used for cold wine. They can be kashered by Miscellaneous immersing them in boiling water, following the Refrigerator, Freezer, and Pantry: Clean procedure listed above. thoroughly; some prefer to line with paper. Plastic Utensils and Coated Pots: These should Tables: Should be covered. not be koshered for Pesach. In case of necessity, Baby High Chair: Should be cleaned call your rabbi. thoroughly, and the tray should be covered with Baking Pans, Roasting Pans and Racks and contact paper. Pans from Broilers: These can be kashered by Towels: May be used on Pesach after they have placing them in a self-cleaning oven for a been washed with detergent and warm water. cleaning cycle. Koshering with boiling water is insufficient for these items.

Purchasing Chometz After Pesach If chometz has been in a Jew’s possession over Pesach, it is subsequently forbidden for consumption. The following is a list of businesses which either sold their chometz properly to a non-Jew over Pesach or are owned by non-Jews.  7-11  Grapevine and  Rosenberg's Kosher  Amusmints Liquor (Formerly The  Bavarian Bakery  Hammond’s Candies Store) Enterprises  Izzio’s Artisan Bakery  Safeway  Bliss Caterers  Jerry’s Nut House  Sam’s Club  Bonnie Brae Ice Cream  King Soopers  Spectracorp  Brooklyn Pizza  Millenson Catering  Sprouts  Culinary Masters  Natural Grocers  Sweet’s Candy Catering (previously (Vitamin Cottage)  Trader Joe’s Canteen Catering,  Occasions Catering  Udi’s Granola previously La Vie Catering)  Restaurant Depot  Vitamin cottage  Dining with Finesse  Rocky Mountain Foods (Natural Grocers)  East Side Kosher Deli  Rocky Mountain Spice  Walmart

More Kosher Komments • Kashrus Alerts: For a list of kashrus alerts certifications. Note: This year there will be a please see our website at kosher for Pesach kitniyos section which may be https://scrollk.org/kashrus-alerts. To be emailed utilized by those who eat kitniyos on Pesach. directly, contact Rabbi Erlanger at • Egg Matzos: Egg matzah is the term used for [email protected] or register at matzah made with fruit juice or eggs in place of http://scrollk.org/kashrus-alerts/alertnotification. water. Ashkenazic Jews traditionally do not • All items in the East Side Kosher Deli consume these items on Pesach, except by the Passover Store (opening date March 4th) are elderly, the sick or the young child who cannot certified for Pesach by the Scroll K. It is still digest regular matzah. ® White prudent to check each item for Pesach

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Grape Matzo, Crackers and Passover Tam Tams print and Braille) are available free of charge to (all OU certified), are egg matzah products. the legally blind from the Jewish Heritage for • Pet Food may contain chometz. It is forbidden the Blind. A note from a certified eye care to derive any benefit from Chometz on Pesach specialist is required. They can be reached at which includes allowing one’s animals or pets (800)-995-1888 or [email protected]. to consume Chometz. One should either For more information see substitute other foods or the pets should be http://www.jewishheritage.org/ given to a non-Jew for the duration of the • As the first Seder this year is on Friday holiday. Pure canary seeds and sunflower seeds Night, the Saltwater (Karpas dip) must be are acceptable. Many Evanger’s® dog and cat prepared before night. This is due to the food products are certified Kosher for Pesach by prohibition of creating brine on Shabbos. CRC (Chicago). See Alternatively, one may make a diluted form http://www.crcweb.org/LOC/Evangers.pdf for (with minimal salt) on Shabbos (Mishne Berura details. 473:21). Also, the regular Friday evening • Large print haggadahs for the visually prayer, Magen Avos, is omitted by most impaired (as well as other Jewish texts in large communities (Shulchan Aruch 487:1).

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KITNIYOS BY ANY OTHER NAME By Rabbi Tzvi Rosen Kashrus Administrator, STAR-K

s is commonly known, the Torah together. Another reason is that if kitniyos products prohibits chometz on Pesach, and the would be permitted, confusion within the general A consequence of chometz consumption public could result in mistaking on Pesach is very severe. In order to distance permitted kitniyos flour and forbidden chometz flour. us from the possibility of violating Torah precepts, our Although these might not be problems of epidemic rabbis with their supreme insight, instituted a minhag, proportions, the Rema considered them to be real as a protective fence. The minhag to guard us enough to forbid the eating of kitniyos on Pesach. from chometz violations is to refrain from Sephardim check the kitniyos grains three times to consuming kitniyos on Pesach. make sure no chometz grains are intermixed within the kitniyos and then permit their use on Pesach. WHAT ARE KITNIYOS? The kitniyos restriction is not as all encompassing as chometz. One does not sell kitniyos as he Kitniyos are popularly defined as legumes. But what would chometz. One may derive benefit are legumes? The Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 453, from kitniyos and may use them for non-eating defines kitniyos as those products that can be cooked purposes, such as fuel for candle lighting and heating and baked in a fashion similar to chometz grains, yet or pet food. It is important to note that in the case of are not halachically considered in the same category medications, kitniyos restrictions are not applicable as chometz. Some examples are rice, corn, peas, and pills that use corn starch as binders would be mustard seed, and all varieties of beans (i.e., kidney, permissible for medication. lima, garbanzo, etc.). The Torah term for the fermentation of barley, rye, oats, wheat, and spelt is KITNIYOS DERIVATIVES “chimutz;” the term given for fermentation of kitniyos is “sirchan.” There is a question amongst poskim as to whether kitniyos derivatives, such as corn oil, would The Bais Yosef permits kitniyos on Pesach, while be considered part of the ban and, thus, forbidden. the Rema rules that kitniyos are forbidden. Maybe these derivatives could be considered a Hence, Sephardim consume kitniyos on Pesach while separate category, “shemen kitniyos,” exclusive of Ashkenazim follow the Rema’s psak, which does not the kitniyos restriction. There are additional permit the consumption of kitniyos on Pesach. considerations linked to peanuts and peanut oil and The root and greens of these vegetables are whether peanuts are considered to be kitniyos. not kitniyos; we only avoid the seeds. Subsequently, peanut oil would present less of a problem than other kitniyos oils. Due to this sfek REASONS FOR PROHIBITION sfeka, (compounded doubt), Rav Moshe Feinstein, Why are kitniyos forbidden for consumption zt”l, permitted the use of peanut oil on Pesach. on Pesach? The Brura enumerates a number Nevertheless, most reputable kashrus agencies (in the of reasons. One reason is that there is a possibility United States and Israel) do not permit the use that chometz grains could be mixed amongst of shemen kitniyos in their products, nor do they use the kitniyos grains, creating an inadvertent yet peanut oil. real chometz problem when the grains are cooked

P a g e | 18 KITNIYOS AND OTHER PRODUCTS CUSTOMARILY NOT EATEN ON PESACH However, over in the conversion process and are commonly derived Anise4 the years, from barley, which is chometz. Corn syrup converted Ascorbic Acid, products bearing by hydrochloric acid alone would not have Aspartame2 a Kosher for this chometz issue. Beans (including Green Beans, Edamame, etc.) Passover Bean Sprouts certification have What is of great halachic consequence is BHA (in corn oil) used kitniyos- the halachic perception of these “corn converted” BHT (in corn oil) products. Since the final product is in liquid form, it Buckwheat derived Calcium Ascorbate2,3 ingredients in was and still is considered to be shemen kitniyos by Canola Oil (Rapeseed) their Kosher for some authorities. Other poskim posit that there is an Caraway Seeds intrinsic difference between classical shemen Chickpeas Passover Citric Acid2,3 (possibly chometz) products. A kitniyos(i.e., oil that is pressed out of the kernel) and a Confectioner’s Sugar (possibly chometz, liquid corn syrup converted from the actual starch. The look for KFP symbol) common Coriander example of liquid is not shemen kitniyos; it is actual kitniyos. Corn Cumin4 a kitniyos- KITNIYOS SHENISHTANU Dextrose (possibly chometz) derived product Emulsifiers3 is corn syrup. Today, food science has found multiple applications 4 Fennel , for products derived from kitniyos. Fenugreek5, High fructose Glucose3 corn syrup is one These kitniyos conversions and fermentations have Green Beans of the leading given rise to a new kashrus term, “kitniyos Guar Gum3 H.V.P. (possibly chometz) versatile shenishtanu”, kitniyos that have been transformed into Isolated Soy Protein sweeteners in the a new product. These converted food grade ingredients Isomerized Syrup include citric acid and ascorbic acid (that have wide Kasha (Buckwheat) food industry. It Lecithin is produced food applications), NutraSweet sweetener, MSG (a Lentils flavor agent in soups and spice blends), sodium citrate 2 through a Malto-Dextrin (possibly chometz) (found in processed cheeses), sodium erythorbate Millet conversion MSG (possibly chometz)3 process whereby (found in deli meats), and lactic acid that is used in Mustard Flour the white starch olive production. These corn or soy-based ingredients NutraSweet2 Peanuts5 of the corn go through a multi-stage conversion process until the Peas kernel is final food grade material is produced. 6 Rice converted into Seeds (Caraway, Poppy, Sesame, There is a divergence of opinions Sunflower) sugar. This is 1 amongst kashrus certification agencies as to whether Sodium Citrate (possibly chometz) typically Sodium Erythorbate1 we permit or forbid kitniyos shenishtanu. Sorbitan accomplished by Sorbitol using What is the reasoning for those who permit kitniyos Soy Beans hydrochloric Starch shenishtanu? Interestingly, the reasoning behind String Beans acid and permitting kitniyos shenishtanu is based on a Tofu enzymes or different halachic query regarding a Vitamin C11,2(possibly chometz) ------hydrochloric serious kashrus concern as to whether or not a product 1Kitniyos Shenishtanu acid alone, extracted and converted from a non-kosher source 2Unless bearing a reliable Passover certification. 3 Only acceptable when the certifying agency has without the could be considered kosher. The heter is based on the documented that all chometz issues have been assistance of resolved. reasoning of the Chasam Sofer and the Chok 4 The bulbs, root, and greens of these items are enzymes. In the Yaakov permitting the consumption of grape seed oil not kitniyos; it is only the seeds we avoid. 5Should be avoided on Pesach. corn sweetener that was extracted from non-kosher grape seeds. 6Those people who eat rice on Pesach should industry, confirm their rice is Kosher L’Pesach and free of problematic additives. For more information, see enzymes are a The Shulchan Aruch discusses the two criteria for www.star-s.org. permitting products derived from non-kosher grape key component

P a g e | 19 seeds: tammdan, washing of the seeds, and yibush, The fundamental reasoning of the Chasam Sofer and drying of the seeds, to a point where the seeds are the Chok Yaakov permitting the newly transformed dry. This is similar to the drying of the wine sediments grape seed oil provides the basis for on the side of the cask (weinstein), the basic ingredient permitting kitniyos shenishtanu. of cream of tartar. In grape seed oil productions, the seeds are washed and dried well to contain 6-8% The reasons for permitting kitniyos shenishtanu are moisture; a kernel of raw rice by comparison contains very compelling. What are the counter arguments in 11% moisture. This is critical in the extraction of favor of prohibiting kitniyos shenishtanu? When Rabbi grape seed oil because a wet seed becomes moldy and Moshe Heinemann, shlita, Rabbinic Administrator of the oil cannot be extracted from a moist seed. The the STAR-K, discussed this issue with Rabbi Yosef question remains: Does a seed that has originally been Shalom Eliyashiv, zt”l, and Rabbi Shlomo Zalman soaked in non-kosher wine prior to washing and Auerbach, zt”l, their position was to prohibit kitniyos drying qualify for kosher grape seed oil extraction? shenishtanu as a chumra d’pischa, a strict adherence to the minhag of prohibiting kitniyos. For this reason, it The Shulchan Aruch clearly states that grape seeds are is STAR-K policy not to certify products forbidden to be used within the first 12 months of their containing kitniyos shenishtanu. separation from the “must”. Furthermore, the halachah states that the seeds need to be washed Today, with the emergence of and free of any residual wine before the 12-month dynamic Sefardic communities and a heightened count can be successful. Also, does the drying of the demand for -based products, more and more of seeds equal a 12-month waiting period? A question these types of products are appearing on the Kosher was raised regarding the wine sediment which is the for Passover shelves. These products declare main ingredient of cream of tartar. Does the drying of “L’Ochlei Kitniyot – Kosher for Passover for those the wine lees, the wine sediment, qualify for the 12- who consume Kitniyot on Passover”. The STAR-K month waiting period? Many halachic authorities has developed a KFP program for maintain that it does and that the oil extracted from the the Sefardic community and those products that may clean, dry seed would be mutar. be consumed “L’Ochlei Kitniyot” bear a STAR-S P. Another opinion in favor of grape seed oil is that the QUINOA oil bears no resemblance to the original grape seed in It was determined that quinoa is Kosher L’Pesach. It is smell, taste, color or texture. The Chasam Sofer and not related to millet, rice or the chameishis minei the Chok Yaakov rule that since there is a complete dagan, five types of grain products. Quinoa is a transformation from grape seeds to oil the prohibition member of the “goose foot” family, which includes of disqualified grape seeds does not apply. This is sugar beets and beet root. STAR-K tested quinoa to based upon the ruling of Rabbeinu Yona, who see if it would rise. The result was sirchon, as termed maintained that a forbidden item that has undergone a by Chazal, which means the quinoa decayed and did complete transformation is permitted. The Chelkas not rise. Furthermore, quinoa’s growth does not Yaakov offers yet another reason to permit grape seed resemble kitniyos and, as cited in Igros Moshe O.C. oil. Oil is contained inside the seed, and the wine is not (3:63), we do not consider additional products beyond converted into oil; therefore, it can be viewed as two what was originally established. However, recent separate entities. investigations have found that there is a possibility that quinoa grows in proximity to certain grains and/or is Mark Millenson processed in facilities that compromise Kosher for Passover status. Therefore, quinoa may be used only wishes the entire Jewish on Pesach with reliable Kosher for Passover approval. community a Happy and Healthy Passover!

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Eating Matzah on Erev Pesach By Rabbi Mordechai Fleisher Senior Educator, Denver Community Kollel

t’s Erev Pesach (Pesach eve), its lunchtime, and novel to the child that is unique to the night of Pesach. you’re hungry. Considering you may not be eating Therefore, a child who is too young to understand the I your main Yom Tov meal until close to midnight, story is not included in this injunction. you figure you should have a substantive meal now. Chometz is already off limits since the end of the What Type of Matzah Is Included? fourth hour of the day, so you figure you can have a There is much discussion among the halachic sandwich using matzah in lieu of bread. Not so fast! authorities as to what types of matzah are included in Before you dig in, read this first – you may be the prohibition. Tosafos (Pesachim 99b s.v. lo yochal) surprised to learn that your options are limited, due to note that the Yerushalmi does not prohibit matzah a prohibition against eating matzah on Erev Pesach. ashira, matzah kneaded with liquids other than water. The Source and Reason (Egg matzah is a classic example of matzah ashira.) Tosafos explain that the Yerushalmi only forbids The Yerushalmi (Jerusalem , Pesachim 10:1) types of matzah with which one can fulfill one’s forbids consuming matzah on Erev Pesach. There are obligation of consuming matzah at the seder. This numerous reasons discussed for the prohibition. One approach, mentioned by other halachic authorities as basic reason is that there needs to be a heker, or well, leads to a lengthy discussion among the halachic recognition, that the matzah eaten to fulfill the authorities to ascertain what is included in this mitzvah on Seder night is being consumed for the exception. Would matzah that is labeled “not for purpose of the mitzvah; by abstaining from matzah on Passover use” be permitted? What about cakes baked Erev Pesach, it is clear that one is not simply in the with matzah meal? Matzah balls? I will attempt to habit of eating matzah. A second reason given is that examine some of the most common situations and the one should be excited and have a hearty appetite practical halacha. specifically for the matzah eaten to fulfill the mitzvah at the Seder, and eating matzah on Erev Pesach will As Tosafos states, matzah ashira cannot be used to remove one’s excitement. fulfill the Seder night obligation; it may therefore be eaten on Erev Pesach. Even matzah made from water When Does It Begin? in addition to other liquids would be permitted, as such matzah cannot be used to fulfill the mitzvah. (It There are varying opinions as to when the prohibition should be noted that the Ashkenazic custom is to begins. Some authorities rule that chatzos (midday) is avoid this type of matzah throughout Pesach, with the starting point, while others say it begins from certain exceptions for extenuating circumstances. when one searches for chometz the previous night. Therefore, using matzah ashira on Erev Pesach after The Mishnah Berurah (471:12) rules like a third the time when chometz becomes prohibited would be opinion that the prohibition begins at alos hashachar, quite limited.) daybreak. Some have the custom to avoid matzah from Rosh Chodesh Nissan. The Shaar Hatziyun (444:1) notes that the Vilna Gaon states that the Rambam prohibits even matzah ashira. Who Is Included? The Sha’ar Hatziyun says that the Vilna Gaon seems Men, women, and children who are old enough to be to rule like the Rambam. However, the Mishnah told the story of the Exodus are included in the Berurah (471:10) rules that matzah ashira is permitted, prohibition. Children who are not old enough to with no reference to the Vilna Gaon’s opinion. understand may be fed matzah all day on Erev Pesach. Matzah used at the Seder must be made lishem matzos The reasoning behind this is that the Torah commands mitzvah, with intent that it be for the mitzvah of us to tell our children, “Because of this, Hashem matzah. Matzah that was not made lishma, as this performed miracles and took me out of Egypt.” “This” details is commonly referred to, is thus invalid for use is understood as referring to the mitzvah food we eat for fulfillment of the mitzvah. Some authorities on Seder night. If the child has eaten the matzah all therefore say that such matzah may be consumed on day, it is difficult to point to the matzah as something Erev Pesach. Practically, though, most authorities rule

P a g e | 21 that since it is essentially the exact same thing as cake or cookie, it becomes an item known as pas matzah used for the mitzvah, just lacking a details of haba’ah bikisnin, a term whose complexity is beyond lishma, it must be avoided. the scope of this article. Pas haba’ah bikisnin is mezonos when eaten as a snack. However, if one were Matzah labeled “not kosher for Passover” is often to eat such items as a meal, one would indeed make a non-chometz. Because it is not properly supervised, it hamotzi blessing on it. cannot be used on Pesach. However, since it may be technically fit for use, it must be avoided on Erev Now to the question of Erev Pesach. As long as one Pesach, even before the time when chometz becomes would be obligated to make hamotzi on the matzah prohibited. Even if the matzah is clearly chometz, meal, it is regarded as matzah and remains forbidden. there are those who forbid it nonetheless, as it tastes Once it becomes a mezonos, it is no longer matzah and looks the same as regular matzah. and may be consumed. Matzah meal is regarded as full-fledged matzah and is Pas haba’ah bikisnin (i.e. cake with matzah meal) prohibited. What happens when it is mixed with other presents a complication: It is generally mezonos, but it ingredients? The issue is complex. There is an can sometimes require hamotzi! Is it considered important introduction that must be made before matzah and forbidden, or is it no longer matzah and looking at the practical ruling: permitted? The Mishnah Berurah (471:20) rules it may not be consumed on Erev Pesach. However, if a If one takes an item that requires hamotzi, such as small amount of matzah meal is included in an item as bread or matzah, and crumbles it, it remains hamotzi. a binder – for example, in a potato – it may be If the crumbs are mixed with a liquid, the halacha is as consumed, as this is certainly not matzah-like. follows: If the crumbs are both less than a kezayis Cooked matzah, most significantly, knaidlach (matzah (olive’s volume according to halacha) and do not have balls), may be consumed. In addition, even if one tzuras hapas (recognizable as bread), they become cooked matzah pieces that are larger than a kezayis, mezonos. If they are lacking one of these two they may be eaten on Erev Pesach, due to the fact that conditions, they remain hamotzi. the cooking robs it of matzah flavor. If the crumbs are cooked - whether they are mixed is made by mixing small (generally less with other ingredients or not - so long as the piece is than a kezayis) pieces of matzah with eggs, then smaller than a kezayis, the blessing is mezonos. A frying them in oil. If we regard fried in oil as cooked, piece larger than a kezayis remains hamotzi even if it then it is mezonos, and one may eat it on Erev Pesach. lacks tzuras hapas. (Note: If it was smaller than a But frying may not be considered cooking, unless it is kezayis at any point, even if it expanded during deep-fried – and matzah brei is generally fried in a cooking or became attached to other pieces that, relatively small amount of oil. together, are a kezayis, it is mezonos.) Even if we assume the matzah brei is not considered If the crumbs are mixed with a liquid and baked into a “cooked”, if the pieces of matzah are no longer

P a g e | 22 recognizable as matzah, the condition of no tzuras opinions. Consult with your halachic authority for hapas discussed earlier has been met, and, since the practical halacha. condition of smaller than a kezayis is met, as well, the blessing is mezonos, and one may eat it on Erev Even mezonos items that may be consumed on Erev Pesach. Pesach cannot be eaten after the ninth hour of the day, to ensure one is hungry for the mitzvah foods of Seder Often, though, the matzah is still discernable after night. Even other food items, such as fruits, frying, leaving us with a quandary of what blessing to vegetables, fish and meat, should be limited after the make, and, by extension, whether it may be consumed ninth hour. Enjoy your lunch, but make sure to finish on Erev Pesach. As you can guess, there are varying before that time!

History and Halacha: Mechiras Chometz By Rabbi Yaakov Zions, Kashrus Coordinator, Scroll K

ne of the famous components of the Pesach without incurring a tremendous loss was an important holiday season is the sale of Chometz. This is need3. O generally performed by a rabbi acting as the agent to transfer ownership of one’s Chometz to a non- Originally, the sale of Chometz was done on an Jew for the duration of the Pesach holiday. Let us individual basis; any Jew with Chometz in their examine some of the history behind this sale and the possession would find a non-Jew and sell it to him or halachic issues it presents1. her. As the need increased, the Rabbinate of each city began assuming responsibility for assuring everything Historically, the sale of Chometz was not as universally was done in a halachically-acceptable manner4. widespread as it is today. This was due to many factors, However, there were still various ways that this was including the lack of many of our common Chometz accomplished. Some communities had the rabbi or items. One would simply take caution to finish all bread another appointed individual acquire all the Chometz and similar items before Erev Pesach. (Let’s remember from the individuals; they would then sell all the there were no freezers yet; all bread was made and acquired Chometz to a non-Jew. Many others, however, consumed fresh!) It is for this reason that the details of opted for the currently practiced method; the rabbi acts selling Chometz comprise only one se’if (sub-chapter; as the agent to sell everyone’s Chometz to a non-Jew on Orach Chaim 448:3) of the tens of simanim (chapters) their behalf5. dealing with the laws of Pesach (Orach Chaim 431- 491). Later, as circumstances changed, an explosion of The current practice of everyone selling their Chometz halachic literature dealing with the issues of the sale of as a matter of rite (including those who are unaware of any Chometz in their possession), is of relatively recent Chometz began. (The Mishna Berurah on the 6 aforementioned se’if comprises seven pages!) One origin . primary area of change was the proliferation of th הא דיי"ש נחשב כחמץ אינו מוסכם, ע' שע"ת תמ"ב סק"ב דאולי נחשב כזיעה בעלמא. fermented grain products (such as whiskey) in the 16 3 2 ושמעתי שהנהגת הגר"מ פיינשטיין זצ"ל הי' שלא לסמוך על מכירת חמץ מלבד ליי"ש century . This soon became a source of income for )ע' ישורון חי"ד עמ' תרפ"ה, לצילום שטר מכירת חמצו(, ומטעם זה דיש סוברים שאינו many Jews and getting rid of the expensive stock אלא זיעה בעלמא. ע' שו"ת נאות דשא בסופו, בתשובה מהגר"ש קלוגר שהצדיק המנהג שנהגו אז מחדש Much information was gleaned from Mechiras Chometz KeHilchaso, 4 1 לסדר מכירה כללית, נגד אלו שעירערו ע"ז, וכתב שעי"ז מונעים מכשולים רבים, .by Rabbi S.E. Stern, Bnei Brak 1989 עיי"ש. The purpose of this article is to inform and educate, rather than ע' קונטרס זר זהב ועמודי כסף )לבעל מסגרת השולחן על קש"ע(, בפתיחה להלכות question or cast aspersions upon existing customs. 5 2 מכירת חמץ, וז"ל, הם )אותם שקונים כל החמץ לעצמם( מכניסים עצמם בפירצה דחוקה It is very notable that while Tur and Shulchan Aruch never mention ללא צורך וכו', דמה לו להכניס עצמו כל כך לקנות כל עצמם החמץ והשמרים ולסמוך their commentaries ,)יי"ש) drinks made with whiskey or brandy על זה שמוכר אח"כ לנכרי, ואולי קנין שלו הוא יותר טוב משל הנכרי ונמצא כל האיסור !mention them hundreds of times לא יראה ולא ימצא נשאר עליו, עכ"ל. ע' ספר מכירת חמץ כהלכתו עמ' ז' ושמ"ט, ויש להעיר )בדרך פלפול בעלמא( דאף 6 דאיכא בזה תקנה לכמה בנ"א, עדיין יל"ע במי שבדק וביער כדין למה לו למכור חמצו,

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Many of the Acharonim critically analyze various of an issur d’Rabanan10 and the sale is therefore details of the sale. Let’s examine some of their effective. He was concerned, however, with another difficulties: commonly practiced custom of his time, the sale of 1. The sale must be halachically valid in order to avoid livestock. As most of the cattle feed was Chometz11, the issurim associated with owning Chometz on the custom developed to sell the animals to a non- Pesach. According to the opinion of Rashi7, a non- Jew for the duration of Pesach. The Bechor Shor Jew acquires movable items from a Jew with argued that since animals are obviously not included monetary payment. Rabbeinu Tam8 and most in the Chometz nullification, they require a sale that halachic authorities, however, rule that this can only would be valid for d’Oraisa (Scriptural) purposes. be accomplished through meshicha: the buyer Our sale of Chometz is a ha’arama, posits the “pulls” the item toward himself, thus acquiring it. Bechor Shor, and therefore invalid for this This would be difficult for individuals to do with purpose12. their personal Chometz, and virtually impossible to Many Acharonim took exception to the Bechor Shor’s do at a communal Chometz sale. We must therefore position. They argued primarily on two of his points, from opposite ends of the spectrum. Some13 argued that rely on , or find other acceptable methods of a sale done with halachically valid methods cannot be acquisition. For a synopsis of the methods involved invalidated due to ha’arama. Just because we know and their halachic status, see Mishna Berurah subconsciously that the sale is done only as a temporary 448:17. fix14 is not reason enough to invalidate it. Others argued 2. Some question that the sale seems to be a ha’arama, that one can’t sell and nullify the same Chometz items; or trick. This issue was famously raised by the if it’s sold, it’s no longer his to nullify, and he thus Bechor Shor9 and was heavily debated in the cannot do bitul. Conversely, to the extent that the bitul is valid, that would indicate the Chometz is still his to subsequent centuries. The Bechor Shor did not nullify and the sale never really happened15. The very intend to invalidate our sale of Chometz due to the fact that he sold the Chometz means that his nullification issue of ha’arama. Rather, he was of the opinion won’t include those items. Additionally16, if one sells that ha’arama is valid on a d’Rabanan (Rabbinical) his Chometz before he nullifies, how can the sale be level only, and can therefore be utilized to avoid issurim d’Rabanan (Rabbinical prohibitions) 10 See Peaschim 4b 11 exclusively. Since one nullifies all Chometz in his It seems that the cattle were fed draff, the residue of husks after fermentation of the grain. It is forbidden to derive any benefit from possession before Pesach, it remains only an issue Chometz on Pesach. This includes allowing one’s animals or pets to consume Chometz. See M.B. 443:6. .See Mishna Berurah 448:33 for a practical discussion of this matter 12 ואי משום שחושש שמא ימצא תוך היו"ט ויעבור בב"י וב"י במה שהיה ברשותו בלי It is notable that Sharei T’shuvah, quoted there in Shar Hatziyun as ידיעתו, לאו מילתא דפשיטא הוא כלל, ע' רש"י )ו. ד"ה דעתו, ומהרש"א שם( דמשמע forbidding this practice, was authored by a grandson of the Bechor דאינו עובר בב"י וב"י בכה"ג, וכ"כ בתוס' )כא. ד"ה ואי( וכן מבו' בר"ן, אמנם ע' רא"ש .Shor, Rabbi C.M. Margolis )פ"ק סי' ט'( דס"ל דעובר ובק"נ )שם(, וע' בפר"ח )סי' תל"א( מה שהק' עליו ]ונחלקו האחרונים בשי' הטור בעי"ז, ע' במג"א סי' תל"ד סק"ה, וט"ז שם סק"ג[, ואף בשעה Including M’kor Chaim (by the author of Nesivos Hamishpat) 448:11 13 שימצא החמץ לא יעבור עליו, שה"ה משהה חמץ ע"מ לבערו, דס"ל לתוס' )כט: סוד"ה There are various proofs from Gemara as to the validity of an 14 ר' אשי בשם הר"י( דאינו עובר ]וע' במג"א סי' תמ"ו סק"ב דלשי' התוס' אם מצא חמץ acquisition done in a manner of ha’arama which are beyond the scope ביו"ט, אף אם לא ביטל חמצו לא יבערנו אז כיון שאינו עובר עליו, וזהו דלא כרש"י ו. of this article. Also notable is the role this issue plays in other halachic ד"ה כופה, ונמצא דרש"י ס"ל דאפי' משהה חמץ ע"מ לבערו עובר עליו, אבל areas. These include selling a Jewish-owned business to a non-Jew to במקו"ח, בביאורים בהקדמה לסי' תל"א חולק על המג"א, דדוקא בעוסק בביעור allow it to function on Shabbos and selling land in Eretz Yisroel to a אינו עובר עליו, ולפי"ז אף רש"י מצי ס"ל כתוס' הנ"ל, אבל לפי"ד אם ימצא .non-Jew for the Shemita year חמץ ביו"ט יעבור עכ"פ עד מוצאי יו"ט, ודוקא מדרבנן כיון שכבר ביטל[, ובכל ע' ר"ן )ריש פסחים( היאך מהני הביטול, ותוכ"ד הוא דאע"ג דאינו מפקיר ממש, כיון 15 אופן ה"ה בגדר אונס, כיון שקיים מה שחייבו אותו חז"ל, ולשמא ימצא גלוסקא דחמץ הוי אינו ברשותו והתורה עשאה ברשותו, מהני גילוי דעתו שאינו רוצה לקיימו יפה וישהה לבער )ע' פסחים ו:(, ג"כ לא שייך לנו לגזור מעצמינו, כיון שבדק ברשותו, ולפי"ד יש מקום לומר דאין הביטול מועיל עד שעת איסורו ממש או רגע קודם וביער כדין, ולאידך גיסא, ע"י מה שמוכר כל חמץ שיש לו, ה"ה מבטל מצות השבתת ולא בשעה שאומר הביטול, וראיתי מיישבים עפי"ז דברי הבכור שור, דהקשו עליו כמה שאור לכמה ראשונים, ערש"י )ד:(, וע' בב"י )סי' תל"ו ד"ה ומה שטען( דמבואר דס"ל אחרונים דאין הביטול מועיל על מה שימכר אח"כ, שהרי הוא חוזר וזוכה בו כדי למוכרו דאין המפקיר חמצו מקיים מצות עשה זו, וצ"ע. להנכרי, וע"פ דברי הר"ן הנ"ל ניחא, דבשעת האיסור ה"ה מבטל כל החמץ שיש לו 7 Kiddushin 14b עכ"פ מדאורייתא, אמנם שמעתי להק' ע"ז דמדברי הרמ"א )סי' תל"ד ס"ב( מבו' דהביטול חל כשמבטלו, שכ' שאין לבטל ביום אלא אחר ששרף חמצו כדי לקיים שריפה .Ibid 8 בחמץ שלו, ואפי' נימא דהרמ"א סותם בזה דלא כהר"ן )ולהר"ן אה"נ דחייל בשעת Pesachim 21a, By Rabbi Alexander Sender Shur, author of Tevu’os 9 איסורו( עדיין צ"ע למימר דהבכ"ש הוא דלא כהרמ"א ודוק. .(Shor (died 1737 16 This question was raised by Chasam Sofer, Shu’t Orach Chaim 62.

P a g e | 24 halachically valid? According to the Bechor Shor, his argued with the Bechor Shor maintained that the sale is sale was valid only on a d’Rabanan level, independently valid even for d’Oraisa purposes; a minority view18 insufficient to avoid the prohibition of possessing maintained that the sale is problematic due to the Chometz. Later, when he nullifies the Chometz, how can ha’arama involved. we possibly resuscitate the d’Rabanan-strength sale so that it can be fully effective?17 Therefore, they argued, if The above is but a sampling of the intricacies of this the Bechor Shor is correct in assuming that ha’arama sale. The laws of Mechiras Chometz are complex, isn’t valid for d’Oraisa purposes, it shouldn’t be valid coupled with various customs based on the historical for our sale of Chometz either. Most of those who circumstances which shaped them. May we merit to observe all of the laws of Pesach properly! 17 It is noteworthy that the Bechor Shor’s position was supported by his famous grandson, Rabbi Efraim Zalman Margolis, author of Bais Efraim 18 See Mechiras Chometz KeHilchaso page 6. This seems to be the view (and brother of Rabbi C.M. Margolis mentioned above), in a large of Vilna Gaon (Ma’aseh Rav 180) who allowed the sale of Chometz only treatise entitled Kuntres Ha’arama where he defends his grandfather’s if it was an unconditional sale. It may be, however, that he was position against all questions raised by the M’kor Chaim. The rejecting a sale done specifically for a specified time (mechirah l’zman abovementioned response of Chasam Sofer, was written to Rabbi or al m’nas l’hachzir). Margolis in rebuttal of his defense.

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Fit For The King: An Overview of Bishul Akum By Rabbi Yaakov Zions Kashrus Coordinator, Scroll K

renowned Rabbi attended a catered breakfast be kosherized following a special process2. If and took his place in line at the egg station. a Bishul Akum product was cooked in your A As he was waiting his turn, the fire under the pot, a halachic authority should be consulted griddle extinguished. The chef excused himself, to ascertain the ex post facto status of the pot heading off to get the Rabbi from the kitchen to and anything subsequently cooked in it. rekindle it. One of the bystanders mentioned to the b) If a non-kosher food is mixed into a kosher chef that one of the greatest rabbis in the United States dish, the entire mixture would generally be was in the queue right in front of him! “No!” forbidden unless the volume of the non-kosher exclaimed the chef, “My boss warned me if anyone ingredient in the mixture was no greater than else lights the fire, I’m fired!” The above incident is a 1:60. Regarding Bishul Akum, however, we true one, and it is standard operating procedure at only require the forbidden item to be less than kosher events for the Rabbi/ to kindle the half the volume for it to be permitted3. fires and turn on the ovens. Why is this so? Is there Bishul Akum is a critical aspect of modern kashrus truly a need for a Rabbi to light the fire, and how does agencies, as much of our diet is processed in massive this affect the kosher status of the food? Let us factories in the absence of Jewish participants. How explore the relevant sources and details of Bishul can we consume commercially produced breakfast Akum. cereals or pasta? Let us continue and discover what items are included in this prohibition and the The Mishna (Avoda Zara 35b) and subsequent method(s) to circumvent it. It should be noted that our Gemara are the source of the Bishul Akum (cooking of entire discussion is regarding cooked items; breads a non-Jew) prohibition. There are two reasons given 1 baked by a non-Jew are subject to an entirely different for this Rabbinically-enacted measure . One is to (and generally more lenient) set of halachos, called avoid the possibility of the non-Jew adding forbidden Pas Akum. It is beyond the scope of our article to ingredients to the dish. Another is the general need to discuss these halachos. place social barriers between Jew and non-Jew, to minimize the possibility of intermarriage. Either way, an item cooked by a non-Jew (when the item is a Bishul Akum-sensitive item, as we will soon discuss) Which Items is Rabbinically forbidden even if we are sure all the The Gemara and Poskim point out that not all foods ingredients are kosher. Although there are quite a few cooked by a non-Jew are forbidden to a Jew. The rabbinically-enacted food prohibitions, some aspects Gemara mentions two categories of items exempt of Bishul Akum are unique: from this prohibition: a) Generally, a forbidden food, regardless 1. An item which can be eaten raw, and whether the prohibition is Biblical or 2. Items not ‘oleh al shulchan melachim’ (eaten Rabbinical in nature, makes the dishes it at tables of kings). comes into hot contact with, unkosher. We Let us examine these exemptions a bit closer. The first assume this rule applies to dishes which came exclusion is an item which can be eaten raw. into hot contact with Bishul Akum foods, but because there are dissenting opinions, we are 2 See Y.D. 113:16. 3 Shach 114:21 and Aruch Hashulchan 113:53. The Bishul Akum lenient in specific situations. One such ingredient must not be noticeable, and one may not initially mix a example is earthenware. Usually, earthenware forbidden food into a permitted one in order to nullify it. This is true is non-kosherable (if one cooked in an not only when the food was already forbidden prior to being mixed earthenware pot, it may no longer be used). If, in. Even when judging a mixture of Bishul Akum-sensitive items and however, the ingredients were kosher and it non-sensitive item (i.e. a cooked salad where only some of the ingredients are eaten raw, if the sensitive items are individually was merely cooked by a non-Jew, it may still recognizable, they are forbidden. See Rama (112: 6) forbids bread baked by a non-Jewish baker (which he generally permits) if there is egg smeared on top. It’s unclear whether he’s referring to a thick 1 See Tosafos, Avoda Zara 38a and Pischei Teshuva Y.D. 113:1 for layer of egg or even a thin coating (see Gra and Aruch Hashulchan practical Halachic differences between the reasons. there).

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a) The reason for this exclusion is because cooked by a non-Jew. Rav Schwab defended cooking such an item is merely enhancing it, the custom based on the Gemara’s term not making it edible. However, items which ‘shulchan melachim’ (tables of kings) in the are only eaten raw under extenuating plural form. This implies that the defining circumstances or by an extremely small guideline is that the item must be servable at a segment of people, do not meet this criteria. royal banquet where multiple rulers dine Therefore, eggs and potatoes are subject to the together. Although a modern-day ruler may prohibition of Bishul Akum (potato chips will eat sardines for breakfast, it would definitely be discussed soon). not be served at a royal banquet. Although the b) An item which can be eaten raw, but is Chazon Ish rejected this explanation and its generally cooked prior to consumption (to implied leniency, most halachic authorities do enhance its flavor, i.e. corn) is not subject to define this rule as Rav Schwab did. the laws of Bishul Akum, according to many b) Although canned food may not be fit to serve Kashrus (kosher supervision) agencies4. at a royal banquet, if the food was first cooked c) This rule depends on locale, and if in your before the canning process, then at that time it current location the item is not eaten raw, it is perfectly fit for use at a state dinner and the would be subject to Bishul Akum. This is not subsequent canning does not remove the extremely common, as we aren’t only proscription of bishul akum. concerned with how people enjoy consuming c) The Aruch Hashulchan (113:10) rules that a this food, rather if it’s basically edible. cut of meat which is unfit for a royal banquet Additionally, if the item is unavailable raw in (i.e. intestines) is still subject to the halachos a region, that does not detract from being of bishul akum as the sages did not included in this rule. Thus, hearts of palm are differentiate between different types of meat. not subject to Bishul Akum although they are Does this last rule imply that we don’t unavailable fresh (canned items are cooked). differentiate between any two end products This is because they are eaten fresh in tropical made of the same ingredient? If a royal regions, and there is no reason to assume it banquet would include slices of baked potato would be any different were they to be or similar potato products do potato chips also available fresh in our supermarkets as well. If, require a Jew to cook them? This issue is however, an item would be considered debated by halachic authorities. Many Kashrus severely unpalatable in one region and agencies rule leniently and do not require a accepted in another (i.e. raw eggs would be Jew’s cooking of potato chips6. Rav Yaakov normal fare in a region), it would not be Kamenetzky is quoted as ruling strictly in this subject to Bishul Akum in that locale5. matter7. The second exemption was items not eaten at kings’ Additionally, later halachic authorities mention other tables. exclusions: a) What is the practical definition of this rule? In 3. A food, whose primary component is exempt 1950, Rav Shimon Schwab (1908-1995) from this prohibition, even when the visited the Chazon Ish (Rav A. Y. Karelitz, secondary component would be individually 1878-1953) in Bnei Brak and discussed many subject to Bishul Akum concerns, is permitted. halacha and hashkafa (outlook) issues with Thus, beer is not subject to the halachos of him. The Chazon Ish mentioned his dissent of bishul akum, as the hot water is considered the the custom where many halacha-observant primary ingredient8. Most halachic authorities Jews would eat sardines which had been permit coffee brewed by a non-Jew for this reason as well9. 4 This is the policy of the OU, based on the psak of Rabbi Yisroel Belsky Zt”l (OU Kashrus Manual, page 7, Document A-136). This is also expressed by Shu”t Mayim Chayim (published 1737) Y.D. 18, as quoted by Chelkas Binyamin Y.D. 113, footnote 19. This is unlike the halachos of Berachos, where if an item is generally eaten exclusively 6 See OU Kashrus Manual, page 1, Document A-106. raw or cooked, one who consumes them in the unusual form for 7 Emes L’yaakov Y.D. 113, page 307. Some attribute this position to that locale, recites the Shehakol blessing only. An example of this is Rav Moshe Feinstein as well, see Igros Moshe, volume 8, page 274 raw onions which are not generally consumed in their raw form (Y.D. 4:48), but this is far from clear. without being subordinate to other foods (Mishne Berurah 205:5). 8 Tosafos (Avoda Zara 31b) quoted by Shach and Taz Y.D. 114:1. 5 If it were subsequently brought to a different locale, Rav Belsky 9 See Pischei Teshuva 114:1. Aruch Hashulchan 113:22 writes that ruled that it would still be permitted, as the cooking in the original this is the universal custom. It is beyond the scope of this article to location was considered inconsequential cooking. (OU Kashrus discuss the permissibility of purchasing beverages from an Manual, page 8, Document A-88). establishment without a reliable kosher supervision.

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4. Foods which are only served at tables of kings as an accompaniment to other foods (e.g. mustard) are permitted. 5. Only foods actually cooked by a non-Jew are prohibited. Items cold smoked or pickled, and according to some steamed10, are permissible. 6. According to some halachic authorities, items cooked in microwave or induction ovens are not considered cooked in this regard, and are therefore permitted. Rabbi Moshe Heinemann (Rabbinic Administrator of Star K) advises installing induction ovens for situations where Bishul Akum is difficult to avoid (i.e. an elderly person in the care of a non-Jewish aide who prepares his or her meals)11. 7. If a non-Jew cooked in a Jewish home, there is an opinion that permitted it12, but this view was not accepted as practical halacha. The Rema (113:16) is lenient in the situation of a non-Jew who cooked on Shabbos for an ill Jew. The leftovers may be eaten after Shabbos by anyone. Others argue and forbid the food after Shabbos, even for the patient13. In cases of necessity, a competent authority should be consulted. fire, or must he actually place the food in the heat or stir it. The Shulchan Aruch (Y.D. 113:6) takes the strict approach, while the Rama is lenient. Sephardic The Jewish Light Jewry tends to follow Shulchan Aruch in general, and The method to avoid Bishul Akum in the items here is no exception, while most Ashkenazic Jews rule sensitive to it, is known as Bishul Yisroel (cooking of like Rama. Let us return to breakfast cereals and pasta. a Jew). This terminology is a slight misnomer, Most breakfast cereals are not fit for a royal banquet however, as there is no need for a Jew to cook the and therefore are not subject to Bishul Akum. Pasta is item; it must not be cooked by a non-Jew. If an item not edible in its uncooked state and when was in the vicinity of a fire started by no one, no subsequently cooked by a Jew will be permitted. In Bishul Akum was involved and it is therefore summary, Bishul Akum is a critical halacha with many permitted. The same holds true for a fire created by a practical components. When purchasing an item non-Jew for a non-cooking purpose (i.e. to heat the with a reliable kosher certification or partaking room), if he was unaware his fire will be cooking the from a certified kosher event, one need not be food14. The Jew need not perform the entire cooking concerned about Bishul Akum as that is vital part of process; a significant part will do. There is an age-old the kosher status of an item and there is no need for it debate whether it is sufficient for the Jew to light the to be clearly stated. One may sometimes find an item that specifies Bishul Yisroel; this generally implies a 10 See Y.D. 113:13. Many kashrus agencies are lenient only together stringency in a questionable Bishul Akum-sensitive with another mitigating factor. One such mitigating factor is when it situation (i.e. potato chips, or where the Jew was processed in a company using specialized equipment not performed more than just lighting the fire and generally available in private homes, as some question whether the satisfying the stringency of the Shulchan Aruch). May Sages included such cooking in their prohibition. See Igros Moshe, we all merit keeping ourselves kosher and reaping the volume 8, page 274 (Y.D. 4:48) and Minchas Yitzchak 3:26:6. 11 Heard by the author. spiritual rewards! 12 As there is no fear of social attraction in this setting. 13 There is a seeming contradiction in Mishne Berura in this matter, see M.B. 318:14 and 328:63, Michtivei Harav Chafetz Chayim page 43, and Piskei Teshuvos 328:41 and footnotes there. 14 Y.D. 113:5 and Chelkas Binyamin Y.D. 113:48. It therefore follows that a device where the mashgiach remotely starts the cooking process is acceptable.

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The Seder in Good Measure By Rabbi Tzvi Steinberg Rabbi, Congregation Zera Abraham The Yom Tov of Pesach is replete with symbolism. on a smaller shiur. A competent Rabbi should be Marror represents the bitterness of slavery, the four consulted. Although the kezayis measurement is a cups of wine represent the glory of freedom, and the unit of volume, we will also give the measurements Matza represents the deeper understanding of these in weight. The weight measurement is the most two states. However, as my great Rebbi, Harav Eliezer accurate method, and thereby could be employed to Gibber, Shlit”a (Yeshiva Gedolah of Providence, RI) conserve the amount of Matza and Marror used. We once explained, symbolism is meaningful only within have only given the weight measurement for the the context of adherence to halacha. As an example, largest shiur. It has been the experience of the Matzah which is chometz just isnʼt matzah! author that when using the weight measurement, One specific area of halacha of equal interest to the even when calculating according to the largest three items mentioned - Marror, Four Cups of Wine shiur, as a result of the accuracy of this method, the and Matza - is the subject of Shiurim, the halachicly end result has been that less Matza and Marror is proscribed proper measurements necessary for the eaten; that is- less than when employing other fulfillment of these mitzvos. These requirements of methods. Additionally, when the shiurim are proper measurement are utterly different from weighed before Pesach and placed in separate bags, symbolism, in that symbolism is malleable; what it they can be easily distributed during the seder, means to one may be different from how it is thereby saving time and hassle. perceived by another, both in content and in degree. However requirements of measurement are absolute. Guide to Halachic Authorities: One cannot fulfill his mitzvah with consuming almost Chazon Ish: Rabbi Avraham Yeshayahu Karelitz a complete amount. Either he has the proper (1878-1953), Bnei Brak, Israel, foremost halachic measurement or he doesnʼt. authority of his time. What is challenging about this subject of shiurim; Rabbi Chaim Naeh: Rabbi Avraham Chaim Naeh proper measurements, is the navigation of the various (1890-1954), Jerusalem, Israel, author of major classic halachic opinions of what amount is required, halachic works, as well as how to measure things like semi-oval matza, or marror leaves which have no defining shape Ketzos ha-Shulchan , Shiurei Mikveh, and Shiurei whatsoever. Torah, (Measurements of the Torah). “Let us” begin with Morror (pun intended) and Matza. Rabbi Dovid Feinstein: (Current) Major The amount given for the requirement of these two contemporary , incorporated in his work, mitzvos is a kezayis, the size of an olive. This is a Haggadah Kol Dodi, many opinions of his father, measurement of volume, not of weight. However, Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, regarding our subject. since these requirements vary in their importance, “Largest”: This refers to a novel combination of all different methods of calculating the kezayis are the various methods of calculation to arrive at the employed. maximum of the largest possibilty of a kezayis. With For the Four Cups of Wine the required measurement the excitement of performing these infrequent is the volume of a reviʼis. mitzvos, one may be encouraged to employ this It is beyond the scope of this article to fully explain measurement.

the many opinions as to what is a kezayis and a reviʼis, Guide to Terms: how to calculate these shiurim and how to translate Motzi Matza: The Biblically required eating of the them into modern units. Therefore we will simply Matza. chart the measurements according to the main Maror: The eating of the Marror in our times is a opinions, converted into modern units. Traditionally, Rabbinic one is stringent to take the larger shiur, to ensure the requirement, and therefore a smaller shiur is fulfillment of these infrequent and cherished mitzvos. indicated. However, a sickly person or a child may certainly rely

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Korech Matza: The Matza used for the Korech of the cup. If one wishes not to finish all the wine in Sandwich is of Rabbinical requirement. the cup, he should drink a reviʼis (2.9 or 5.1 fl. oz), Korech Maror: The Marror used for the Korech or the majority of the wine in the cup, whichever is Sandwich. more. The minimum requirement, which may be One may be lenient and use 1/3 less Marror for used by the sickly or by children, is the amount of Korech than for the regular eating of Marror. wine of that personʼs cheekful, or the majority of a Afikoman: This is the Matza that is eaten after the reviʼis, whichever is more. meal. May the merit of our adherence to Halacha and The custom is to eat two kezaisim, however a enjoyment of these wonderful Mitzvos, serve us in smaller calculation of kezayis is used. good stead to realize our heartfelt prayer “L’shana With regard to the amount of wine that should be Habba’ah B’Yerushalayim” (Next Year in drunk from each of the Four Cups, ideally one is to Jerusalem) finish all the wine in the cup, regardless of the size

Motzi Matza Marror (for Korech Korech Matza Afikoman Four Cups of Wine 1/3 may be used (revi’itz) Chazon Ish 1.12 fl. oz. .65 fl. oz. .65 fl. oz. 1.15 fl. oz. 5.1 fl. oz. Rabbi Chaim Naeh .87-.97 fl. oz. .65-.97 fl. oz. .65-.97 fl. oz. 1.17-1.28 fl. oz. 2.9 fl. oz.

Rabbi Dovid 1.5 fl. oz. .63 fl. oz. .63 fl. oz. 1.26 fl. oz 2.9 fl. oz. Feinstein

.97 fl. oz. (especially 5.1 fl. oz. (especially “Largest” in volume 1.69 fl. oz. since a bracha is .65-.97 fl. oz. 1.28 fl. oz. on Shabbos) recited) Lettuce 1 oz. Hand 1.02 oz. Hand .39-.59 oz. Hand .77 oz. Horseradish is “Largest” in weight Machine 1.09 oz. Machine .42-.63 oz. Machine .83 oz. measured by Oat 1.3 oz. Oat .5-.75 oz. Oat 1.0 oz. volume .97 fl. oz.

Hand 51% Lettuce Leaves Hand 20-29% Hand 39%

Machine 100% 8.5 in x 11 in. Machine 40-59% Machine 77% “Largest” in area In percentage of Matza. This In percentage of Matza. This In percentage of Matza. This assumes 8 Hand Matzos per Stalks, large 2.5 assumes 8 Hand Matzos per assumes 8 Hand Matzos per ib., and 15 Machine Matzos Stalks, Med 4 ib., and 15 Machine Matzos ib., and 15 Machine Matzos per lb. per lb. per lb.

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