JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your inquiry concerning nonfood products that contain leaven.

As you know, during the Days of Unleavened Bread, we are to have no leaven or leavened products in our homes (Ex. 12:15; 13:7). This includes any agent that produces fermentation and causes dough to rise -- yeast, baking soda, baking powder, and the like. Items such as bread, cake, crackers, cookies, and prepared cereals and pies which contain leavening, of course, must be put out. Doing so is symbolic of putting both the visible and the hidden sins out of our lives.

It is true, however, that leavening agents are also found in a number of products other than baked goods. Among these are beer, wine, and antacids, and some medicines, bath powders, toothpastes, and dog foods. Even fire extinguishers contain forms of leavening agents. But, all these need not be discarded.

For any use of leaven other than that of causing dough to rise, it is a matter of personal conscience between the individual Christian and God as to whether the product should be thrown out. If having any of these or similar products in your home during the Days of Unleavened Bread defiles your conscience, it would be best to get rid of them during the Festival (Rom. 14:23).

We hope you will let us know whenever we may assist you further with your study of the Bible. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT