COVID-90 special KA guidelines for Pesach 5780 – 2020
Rabbinic Administrator of The Kashrut Authority, Rabbi Moshe D. Gutnick, advises the community that due to the urgent situation for so many in relation to the impact of the coronavirus, COVID-19, The Kashrut Authority is issuing a unique set of guidelines to assist with this difficult situation.
Please note these guidelines have been developed considering our specific situation here in Australia. Other countries operate under different circumstances and indeed, cater to differing needs. We believe these items create the appropriate balance.
While Pesach is a time when we normally engage in observing stringencies, given that there is nothing ‘normal’ about these current circumstances, this typical behaviour may not be a possibility for many. Please find below a list of products which can be used without requiring Kosher for Passover certification. Please note: It is always preferable to purchase foods with a hechsher when available.
Additional Pesach information may be released from The Kashrut Authority over the coming days, stay connected via KA Facebook to see the latest daily updates.
In addition, we appreciate that there will be a genuine strain on many families in the lead up to Pesach due to quarantine restrictions, self-isolation and the imperative need for social distancing. As such, we recommend the following simple cleaning practices:
- A thorough vacuuming of the home and the usual cleaning of surfaces will suffice. In this regard, no more needs to be done.
- All chametz should be locked away in cupboards as is. It will then be ‘sold’ for the duration of Pesach. No cleaning is needed within those cupboards.
- Any cupboard anywhere in the house can be designated as ‘sold’ for Pesach and cleaning is not required in those cupboards, simply close and seal. This can be achieved with masking tape or cable ties.
- Ensure your chametz is sold and have in mind chametz in all the closed areas and anywhere else.
- It is not necessary to line fridges and freezers as everything in them is cold. They should be thoroughly cleaned with warm soapy water.
Stay tuned for a special investigative KA 60 MINUTES FACEBOOK LIVE SESSION with me this Sunday evening, March 29th at 8 pm. We’ll explore: How to Kasher your kitchen; How to make a Seder, along with special insights into Pesach!
Please stay safe and in your homes as much as possible.
The Kashrut Authority
Rabbi Moshe D. Gutnick
Rabbinic Administrator
