OU KASHRUT RABBI EZRA FRIEDMAN PAGE BY Director, The Gustave & Carol Jacobs Center for Kashrut Education
Kitniyot Part ІІ: Extensions of the Minhag
T
he previous article discussed the basics of the prohibition of consuming kitniyot on Pesach. The current article will examine areas pertaining to kitniyot that remain permissible, such as for sick individuals and young children. Derivatives and mixtures will be discussed as well. Owning and benefiting from Kitniyot, Kitniyot for children and the ill: The prohibition of chametz (leavened wheat) on Pesach includes consuming, owning, and benefiting from chametz. The custom of prohibiting kitniyot, on the other hand, does not have the same level of stringency. One may benefit from and own kitniyot (as long as there is no chametz mixed in) during Pesach (Rema 453:1 based on Terumat Hadeshen 113). Someone who is sick but not extremely ill and is in need of different foods may consume kitniyot (Mishna Berura 453:7). People with certain chronic medical condi30
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tions may also be permitted to eat kitniyot. For specific cases, one should consult with both their doctor and a competent halachic figure. Regarding children, there is a biblical prohibition of feeding children non-kosher food (see Yevamot 114:A). Similarly, feeding a young child or even a baby, chametz is certainly prohibited (unless there is a dire medical need). Regarding the consumption of kitniyot for children, according to certain opinions, one may feed young children (up to age four) kitniyot if there is a strong need (Chayei Adam 127:6). The prohibition of directly feeding non-kosher food to a child extends to Biblical and Rabbinic prohibitions. However, since kitniyot is a Minhag (custom),there is room to be lenient for young children (see Shem Aryeh EH:95). For example, baby formula and porridge mixes containing kitniyot may be given to babies. If the child is accustomed to a certain variety which contains kitniyot, it is permitted. Regarding baby formulas, almost all Israeli formulas contain kitniyot. Derivatives of Kitniyot and Mixtures Containing Kitniyot: Derivatives of kitniyot include liquids and oils. Many responsa have been written regarding oils made from kitniyot (see Orach Mishpat OH:111-114, Maharshag 2:43). Some authorities felt that the min-
