YU at the OU: Seminars in Kashrus and Chemistry

YU at the OU: Seminars in Kashrus and Chemistry: A special VIDEO Tidbit. On 10/31/08, the OU was privileged to host a chemistry class from Yeshiva University (YU). YU has always emphasized the usage of worldly knowledge in service of the Torah’s goals, and this seminar epitomizes that lofty notion. Heat and Cooking in Halacha presented by Rabbi Eli Gersten, Rabbinic Coordinator OU Kashruth, Recorder of OU P’sak and Policy, is a discussion of the definitions and applications of heat in Halacha (e.g., kashering utensils). Extraction and Distillation in Halacha presented by Rabbi Nosson Neuberger, Rabbinic Coordinator OU Kashruth, Asst. Director, Ingredient Approval Registry, is an examination of essential oils and alcoholic beverages. Chemical Changes in Substances presented by Rabbi Gavriel Price, Rabbinic Coordinator OU Kashruth, Ingredient Approval Registry, is an exploration of the halachic definition of “change” and potential leniencies drawn therefrom.