Knesset Advances Bill to Repeal 2021 Kashrut Reform

Israel's parliament passed a bill in its first reading that would repeal the 2021 kashrut reform. The measure seeks to reverse changes that had opened the official certification market to additional competitors. The 2021 reform had aimed to increase competition among bodies authorized to grant kashrut certificates.

Reversing that reform would return oversight to the previous, more restricted set of providers.

Background on the 2021 Reform The earlier law allowed private organizations to issue official kashrut certificates alongside the state-run system. Supporters said the change would lower costs and expand options for businesses seeking certification.

The new bill must still pass second and third readings before it can become law. No date has been set for further votes. Officials have not released estimates on how many additional certification bodies entered the market after 2021 or what share of certificates they now issue.