Q&A: Rabbinate Kashrut
Rabbinate Kashrut
Question
In your opinion, is it permitted according to Jewish law to eat in a restaurant that has basic Rabbinate kashrut certification? In other words, how do you view the whole issue of “upgrading” kashrut through private certifications?
I assume the answer is long and complex; if you’d rather not elaborate, perhaps at least address this question: would you permit someone who asked you to eat in a restaurant with Rabbinate certification?
Answer
Definitely yes. It is supposed to be kosher at a minimal level (that is, something one can rely on). As with anything, there are those who want a higher standard (first class), and that is what the private certifications or the Rabbinate’s mehadrin certifications are for.
I am not addressing here the practical question of whether the Rabbinate or any other kashrut institution is actually doing its job properly. My remarks concern the principled question.