Frequently Asked Questions
Passover & Kashrus
Are all Zachlawi spirits Kosher for Passover?
No.
Some Zachlawi products are specifically certified Kosher for Passover, while others are certified Kosher year-round but are not approved for Passover use.
Are the non-Passover-certified products considered Chametz Gamur?
Not necessarily. However, products that are not certified for Passover should not be consumed on Passover.
For a product to be approved for Passover, all kelim (production equipment and utensils) must be properly prepared for Passover production, and every ingredient must be reviewed and approved by a reliable kosher certification agency. For our Passover productions, we rely on the OU (Orthodox Union) and follow strict Passover protocols throughout the manufacturing process.
In addition, our Passover Vodka line is recommended for Passover use by both the OU and the cRc/Hisachdus.
It is important to recognize that alcoholic beverages often contain ingredients or processing aids—including certain fermentation agents—that may be derived from chametz. These concerns could never be apparent to the consumer. Therefore, it is never advisable to consume alcoholic beverages on Passover without reliable Passover certification and proper halachic supervision, even when the product appears to be made from otherwise permissible ingredients such as potatoes.
Is Pistachio Arak Kosher for Passover?
No.
Our Pistachio Arak is not produced as a Passover-certified product and should not be consumed on Passover.
Why Doesn't the cRc/Hisachdus Approve Arak for Passover?
The primary botanical used in Arak production is anise seed.
The Shulchan Aruch explicitly states that anise seed is NOT classified as Kitniyot. Accordingly, there is no inherent prohibition against its use on Passover, even for Ashkenazim who customarily refrain from consuming Kitniyot.
Nevertheless, not all kosher certification agencies accept anise seed as a Passover-approved ingredient. The basis for this position stems from the comments of the Taz, who recommends that anise seed be carefully inspected and sifted before Passover use to ensure that no kernels of chametz grain have become mixed among the seeds.
As a matter of policy, the cRc has elected not to rely on the permissibility of anise seed as a blanket approval for Passover certification. This should not be understood as a determination that anise seed is Kitniyot or that it is inherently prohibited on Passover. Rather, it reflects the cRc's commitment to maintaining a heightened standard of caution in matters relating to chametz and Passover supervision.
This distinction is important. There is a meaningful difference between an ingredient that is fundamentally prohibited and one that is technically permissible but excluded from certification due to an adopted policy of additional stringency. In the case of anise seed, the latter is true.
Purchasing & Events
Can My Shul Purchase Zachlawi Products Online?
Absolutely.
We are honored to be represented at synagogue kiddushim, siyumim, fundraising events, and community celebrations.
To make group purchasing easier, we offer a special 10-case bulk purchase option designed specifically for synagogues, community organizations, and larger events.
Do You Offer Bulk Orders for Synagogues and Community Events?
Yes.
Our bulk purchase program was created specifically for shuls, Jewish organizations, caterers, and event planners. Whether you are hosting a Kiddush, Siyum, dinner, fundraiser, or special community event, we would be delighted to help accommodate your needs.
Please reach out to discuss quantities, product selection, and logistics.
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