Kefeilah

Asked by Sam · July 28, 2003 · Kashrut

Question

Could you please explain the word/concept "Kefeilah"? Thank you PS I think that your response on 7/28/03 should be on you FAQ Halacha page.

Answer

Answered by Aaron Abadi

Kefeilah is a non-Jewish Baker or possibly a chef. In the old days, they used to rely on them to confirm by tasting that an item did not have the flavor of the non-kosher ingredient that fell into the mix or the pot. Later the Poskim felt that we cannot rely on the non-Jew in these exact circumstances. shulchan Aruch Yoreh Deah #98:1 AA