Pesach Faqs

Q. Why does cRc not recommend Tums for Pesach but other Rabbis do?

A. The reason for the difference in policy is a Rabbinic difference of opinion as to whether one must refrain from consuming products which contain flavors of unknown kosher and Pesach status. Some Rabbis take a lenient position due to the fact that most of the flavor-contributing chemicals are not chametz, no single chemical's taste is perceived in the final product (i.e. zeh v'zeh gorem), and the flavor is used in tiny proportions. Other Rabbis argue based on halachic and factual grounds which are beyond the scope of this forum. The cRc follows the latter, stricter approach to this question.

We are unable to determine whether the flavorings used in Tums are acceptable for Pesach, and therefore cannot recommend them. Others who list certain Tums products as acceptable for Pesach are aware of this but accept the lenient approach outlined above, which rules that flavors of unknown status do not compromise the Pesach status of the Tums. It is noteworthy that there is corn starch in every variety of Tums which we looked at, which means that even according to the lenient approach the Tums should only be consumed by those who are Sephardic or ill and permitted to eat kitnios.