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May one own non-Kosher food in his home?[1]

It is forbidden to own non-Kosher food in one’s home for a long period of time, due to fear one may come to eat the food. The food is thus to be discarded.

How long may the non-Kosher food remain in one’s home?[2] All non-Kosher foods may remain in one’s home for a short period, which is between one to two months. This however is with exception to Chametz on Pesach which may not be owned at all, even for a short time, even if owning it does not transgress Baal Yiraeh Ubaal Yimatzeh [such as if he did Bittul and it is less than a Kezayis].[3]

Non-Kosher Bread: Some Poskim[4] rule that non-Kosher bread [such as bread that was made with wormy flour] may not be kept at home for even a small amount of time.[5] Other Poskim[6] however are lenient, and so is implied to be the opinion of Admur.[7]

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[1] Michaber Y.D. 57:20; Shach 84:17; Taz Y.D. 84:7; Rashal Perek Eilu Treifos 125, brought in Taz and Shach ibid; Admur 435:4; 447:1; Kuntrus Acharon 446:1

[2] Admur 447:1; See Shach 57:47 “21 days is a short time”; Michaber ibid “12 months”

[3] The reason: Since one is accustomed to eating Chametz throughout the year one is to suspect one may come to eat it even if it is left in home for a short time. [Admur 447:1]

[4] Taz ibid

[5] The reason: As there is high chance of a mistake occurring being that people eat bread all the time and a mix up may occur. [Taz ibid]

[6] Rashal, brought in Taz ibid; Implication of Shach 84:17

[7] As Admur 447:1 rules that “all non-Kosher may remain for 1-2 months” and that “Chametz is an exception to the rule due to its stringencies and one is not to learn from it to other places”

[8] Admur 447:1

[9] Taz ibid regarding wormy bread, and seemingly the same would apply to Hafrashas Challah that is already baked [such as one who separated after baking], and perhaps even towards dough. Vetzaruch Iyun.