What is the Rockland Kashrus Oversight Committee?
The RKOC is an independent vaad that acts as an oversight committee. We partner with the local hechsheirim to ensure that the standards and systems that have been set in place are workable and sustainable to ensure the kashrus of each store.
Why was the RKOC created?
Our Rabbonim are often asked about the kashrus status of various stores and food establishments. As our community has b”H experienced explosive growth, it is very difficult to know the details and standards of the multitude of hechsheirim and stores. The Rabbonim therefore got together and formed the RKOC to enable them to confidently answer the question of, “Which stores can I eat from?”
Who is behind the RKOC?
The RKOC is backed by more than 50 local Rabbonim – three of which form the actual vaad that oversees the day-to-day operations. (See the Endorsing Rabbonim section on the main page.)
If a store is on the RKOC list, what can I expect?
1. Constant presence of a Yid in the cooking and baking areas.
2. All foods are Bishul Yisroel and Pas Yisroel.
3. Systems are in place to ensure that challah is taken timely and properly.
4. Protocols are in place for eggs, onions, and garlic that will be left overnight.
5. Vegetables are either purchased pre-checked or proper systems are in place for bedikas tolaim. Please Note: The RKOC does not assume responsibility for the actual checking.
6. Clear separation in the kitchen between milk and meat, fish and meat, and pareve and milk/meat.
Please Note: The RKOC’s focus is on systems, not actual ingredients. Our mission is to ensure that there are proper systems and protocols in place on a consistent basis for the above six items. Each hechsher has their own standards regarding ingredients (e.g. whose meat, chicken, and other ingredients they use).
Practically speaking, what has the RKOC accomplished in the two years since its inception?
The RKOC is privileged to be warmly accepted by the many hechsheirim that operate in Rockland County as partners in elevating the standards of kashrus. Working together, we help identify critical areas where additional emphasis or adjustments should be placed to ensure that their kashrus standards are maintained.
This partnership has enabled the local Rabbonim to feel comfortable recommending specific food establishments.
How much does it cost the stores?
Nothing. The RKOC is graciously sponsored by local caring community members who want to help elevate the kashrus standards in our community.
Should I be eating from a store that is not yet on the list?
Our mission is to elevate the kashrus standards across Rockland County – as such, we steer away from advising people where to eat.
How can I help the RKOC?
If you know of a food establishment that is not yet on the RKOC list – please encourage them to get approved by the RKOC.
Noteworthy:
#1 What began as a historic opportunity to work with and unify the Rabbonim, hechsherim, and stores across Rockland County has led to a tremendous sense of achdus – which is so beautiful to see in such a large and diverse community like Rockland County.
#2 Other frum communities across the country – that also have a multitude of stores and hechsherim – have reached out asking us to assist them in duplicating the RKOC model and help them create a local Kashrus Oversight Committee for their community.
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