Halacha Yomis - Kitniyot, Rapeseed/Canola oil OU Kosher Halacha Yomis This column is dedicated in memory of: Rav Chaim Yisroel ben Reb Dov HaLevy Belsky, zt'l Senior OU Kosher Halachic Consultant (1987-2016)

Q. Rapeseed oil is extracted from rapeseeds. In the past rapeseed oil had a bitter taste. In recent years, a mild variety of rapeseed was cultivated and the less bitter extracted-oil became known as canola oil. Is rapeseed oil considered kitniyot? A. The Sochatchover Rebbi, Rav Avrohom Borenstein (1838-1910) addresses this issue (Avnei Nezer, OC 533). He rules that rapeseed oil is kitniyot (in spite of the fact that it has a bitter taste) because rapeseeds grow in pods and are part of the mustard family which the Rama (OC 453:1) identifies as kitniyot. Thus it is clear that canola oil is kitniyot as well. Although the conclusion of the Avnei Nezer is to permit kitniyot oil for reasons that are beyond the scope of this Halacha Yomis, the OU follows the position of many other poskim who do not sanction kitniyot oils under any circumstances. Therefore, the OU does not certify canola oil for Pesach. For a complete listing of kitniyot items please see https://oukosher.org/passover/guidelines/food-items/kitniyot-list/