BJH: Can you tell us about your background?
Rabbi Zvi Holland: I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania. After learning in Yerushalayim, I moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where I founded the Phoenix Community Kollel and served as Rosh Kollel for 12 years. In 2012, I moved to Baltimore and began working full-time at Star-K.
BJH: What makes Star-K unique in the kosher certification world?
RZH: Star-K is one of the largest kosher certification agencies in the world, with a presence in over 102 countries. What sets us apart is that we’re a nonprofit organization focused solely on kosher certification. We grew out of a local agency, and despite our global scope, we remain deeply committed to consumer education and support. There’s no other agency with that exact profile.
BJH: How does Star-K prepare for Pesach?
RZH: At Star-K, it’s always Pesach. We begin preparations in June, working on the Pesach book and product directory, updating articles, reviewing medical information, and ensuring everything is current. We print around 10,000 copies of the book, and it’s downloaded digitally hundreds of thousands of times.
BJH: What can people find in the Star-K Pesach book and app?
RZH: The guide includes four major sections:
- Instructions for kashering kitchens and other areas of the home
- Halachic guidance on all aspects of Pesach observance, including pet food
- Medicine and cosmetic lists, prepared in partnership with Rabbi Gershon Bess and Kollel Los Angeles
- The Star-K Pesach product directory
- This year, for the first time, the medicine and cosmetic lists are available for free on our app.
BJH: How do consumers get help with Pesach questions?
RZH: During peak season, we receive up to 1,000 phone calls a day. In addition to phone support, we’ve expanded digital communication via email, text, and WhatsApp. Our trained staff and Rabbonim respond to questions in multiple languages to ensure everyone gets the help they need.
BJH: What’s one important Pesach-related issue consumers should understand?
RZH: Many people have questions about “Chometz She’avar Alav HaPesach” (chametz that wasn’t sold before Pesach). In the U.S., unless you know for certain that a store is Jewish-owned, you’re not required to assume so. In addition, non-chametz items may be purchased even from a Jewish-owned business that did not sell its chametz. For more details, consult our Pesach guide or app.
BJH: What advice do you have regarding medication during Pesach?
RZH: Never stop taking prescribed medication without speaking to your doctor and your Rabbi. While it’s praiseworthy to be careful about chametz in medications, health comes first. There’s a strong minhag to avoid chametz in over-the-counter pills and cosmetics, but when it comes to medical needs, halacha prioritizes health. Liquid and chewable medications should be confirmed chametz-free by checking our app, book, or contacting us directly.
BJH: What does your role at Star-K involve beyond Pesach?
RZH: As Director of Special Projects, I’m involved in a variety of areas, including:
- Kosher shechita and wine production in the U.S., South America, Israel, and Europe
- Oversight of Star-K’s offices in Israel
- Special certification projects across industries and continents
- Q: How much do you travel for your work?
- RZH: I travel frequently, though I often say, “This trip will be my last.” Travel can be exhausting, but it’s also eye-opening. Every trip teaches me something new and gives me a deeper appreciation for the global kosher community.
BJH: What do you love most about Baltimore?
RZH: Baltimore has a rare sense of camaraderie. People genuinely care about one another, and there’s a strong spirit of cooperation. Even though I wasn’t born here, I feel like I’m truly part of this community.
BJH: Any final advice for Pesach preparation?
RZH: Download the Star-K app at star-k.org/passover and read through the Pesach guide. It’s written by expert Rabbonim and packed with practical, reliable halachic guidance to help you prepare properly for Yom Tov.
