Kashrus Training Program

Intensive educational seminar for rabbanim, kollel fellows, and others serving in klei kodesh (rabbinical positions) who have studied Yorah Deah. The program trains the next generation of leaders in kashrus in the U.S. and around the world.

Geographic Scope: International; participants have attended from Brooklyn to Brazil, including cities across North America and beyond

Duration: Typically 4 days (July timeframe)

Focus Areas:

• Practical kashrus supervision and halachic applications
• Industrial kashrus and food science
• Contemporary halachic issues in kashrut
• Vegetable checking and insect recognition
• Poultry and meat shechita
• Fish identification and bishul akum
• Foodservice challenges
• Appliance halachic issues
• Hands-on training at certified facilities

Eligibility: Rabbanim, kollel fellows, and individuals serving in klei kodesh (rabbinical positions) who have studied Yorah Deah

Program Components:

• Lectures by STAR-K rabbinic staff members, including Rabbinic Administrator HaRav Moshe Heinemann and President Dr. Avrom Pollak
• Audio-visual productions on kashrus topics
• Hands-on practicums for vegetable checking
• Field trips to STAR-K certified facilities: slaughterhouses, candy manufacturing plants, restaurants, bakeries, kosher kitchens (e.g., Hyatt Regency), milk operations, and community eruv tours
• Interactive Q&A sessions with senior halachic authorities
• Networking opportunities with kashrus professionals globally

Notable Past Topics/Speakers:

• Rabbi Aaron Metzger, Director of NY State Kosher Enforcement Bureau (2014)
• Shmitta 5768 and Beyond
• Certifying Agency's Administrative Issues
• Halachic questions on appliances, stove covers, microwave cooking
• Yad Soledes Bo definition and experimental testing

Application Information

Specific application procedures not detailed in available materials.

To Participate:

1. Eligibility Check: Confirm you are a rabbi, kollel fellow, or other individual serving in a klei kodesh (rabbinical position) who has studied Yorah Deah
2. Contact STAR-K: Reach out to coordinate attendance
   • Phone: 410-484-4110
   • Contact: Rabbi Zvi Goldberg, Kashrus Administrator and seminar coordinator
   • Location: STAR-K Corporate Office, Baltimore, Maryland
3. Typical Program Dates: July (4-day intensive seminar)
4. Prepare to Attend: All-inclusive seminar with lectures, hands-on training, field trips, and meals provided

Note: The program attracts international participants; participants have successfully attended from Brazil, Panama, Australia, Canada, and throughout the United States.