Vosizneias attributes to Rabbi Moshe Elefant, the chief operating officer of the OU’s kashrus division in New York, that “despite the unusual nature of certifying a bacon flavored product, it is something that has been done numerous times before.”
“We have had the same debate on all imitation related products, not this one more or less than any other,” Rabbi Elefant told VIN News. “At one point we were deciding whether or not to certify imitation crab – should we, or shouldn’t we? In the end, it is a good debate because both sides are right.”
One redeeming quality, Rabbi Elefant contends, is that when evaluating products of this nature, the OU is still vigilant about proper package labeling.
“One thing we do insist on is that it is clearly marked as an imitation, not the real thing,” noted Rabbi Elefant, explaining that six months ago there had been an issue with a bacon flavored potato chip whose designation as an artificial product was not noted in the labeling as prominently as the OU prefers. According to Rabbi Elefant, this problem with the labeling has since been remedied.
Rabbi Elefant also said that he understands why many individuals would not be comfortable eating a bacon flavored product despite the rabbinical supervision.
“It is your choice,” said Rabbi Elefant. “If you aren’t comfortable eating it because of dietary rules or because of moral feelings, then don’t eat it.”
Ritz was eager to have the new crackers certified by the OU, Rabbi Elefant told media outlets, explaining that numerous Ritz products are certified by the agency. The OU reportedly even held meetings to determine the bacon flavored crackers warrented their approval.
“The OU’s position is that we are here to certify food that is kosher and to make food available to the public,” explained Rabbi Elefant. “We are not here to tell anyone to eat anything. If you don’t want to eat pastrami because it has cholesterol, then don’t eat pastrami. The only food we can tell you you must eat is matza. Anything else is up to you.”