Chametz
Any product of the five grains (wheat, barley, rye, oats and spelt) that has fermented. Forbidden during Passover.
Passover
Kosher for Passover certification
Passover (Pesach) is the peak season for kosher products. Planning ahead makes all the difference.
In short
During Passover, an eight-day holiday in spring, chametz may not be eaten: any wheat, barley, rye, oat or spelt product that has fermented. “Kosher for Passover” products need a dedicated certificate with additional controls on ingredients, equipment and supervision. Kosher Madrid issues Passover certificates for the runs that need them.
Key concepts
Kitniyot
Pulses, rice, corn and some seeds. Many Ashkenazi communities avoid them at Passover, while many Sephardic communities eat them. The label states it.
Kosherisation
Preparing equipment before a Passover run, under supervision.
Supervision
Many Passover runs require the mashgiach to be present during production.
Products commonly certified for Passover
Among the sectors we work with, these see the most demand at Passover:
- Olive oil
- Almonds, almond flour and nuts
- Juices
- Flourless chocolate and confectionery
- Roasted coffee
- Fish and canned fish
- Pure spices
- Dedicated dairy runs
How to plan a Passover run
- Several months ahead
Planning
We decide which products to certify, when they will be made and which ingredients are needed.
- Before production
Ingredients
We check every ingredient is certified for Passover, including additives such as citric or ascorbic acid.
- Production days
Preparation and production
Equipment kosherisation and supervision during production, depending on the product.
- After production
Certificate and label
A Passover certificate for the lots produced and “kosher for Passover” labelling.
Questions about Passover
When is Passover?
In spring, usually between late March and late April, depending on the Hebrew calendar. Importers buy Passover products months in advance.
Do we need an annual certificate to get a Passover one?
Not always, although many companies hold both. We assess it based on your product and plant.
Can rice or pulses be kosher for Passover?
They are kitniyot. They can be certified, clearly labelled as such, for consumers who eat them.
Keep reading
Has a customer asked you for kosher certification?
Tell us what you make and where you sell it. We will reply with the next steps and a quote.