Is Diet Coke Kosher For Passover? Resolved

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

When *Passover rolls in* within Jewish customs, there are **stringent rules** about which foods and drinks are allowed.

One popular beverage that may raise questions about its permissibility during Passover is Diet Coke. Diet Coke is a low-calorie soda that contains artificial sweeteners and is commonly consumed year-round. 

We will explore whether Diet Coke is kosher for Passover and the factors determining its permissibility.

Is Diet Coke Kosher For Passover?

Diet Coke is generally considered kosher for Passover. However, the permissibility of Diet Coke during Passover depends on its ingredients.

Aspartame and caramel color are two ingredients in Diet Coke that may be of concern.

Some Jewish authorities prohibit aspartame consumption during Passover, while others allow it. 

“ In New York, I pretty much live in diners – I order French Fries, Diet Coke floats and lots of coffee.”

– Lana Del Rey, American Singer-Songwriter

Caramel [1] color can be made from barley malt, prohibited during Passover. However, some caramel color is made from other sources and may be permissible. 

As such, the permissibility of Diet Coke during Passover may depend on one’s personal or communal customs. 

Those observing Passover should consult with a rabbi or knowledgeable authority on Jewish dietary laws to determine whether Diet Coke is permissible in their community.

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What Are The Ingredients In Diet Coke?

Diet Coke is a low-calorie soda that contains carbonated water, caramel color, phosphoric acid, aspartame, potassium benzoate, natural flavors, citric acid, and caffeine. 

Caramel color can be made from various sources, including barley malt, which is prohibited during Passover. Aspartame, an artificial sweetener used in Diet Coke, may also be of concern during Passover. 

Other Passover-Approved Diet Sodas

1. Pepsi Max – This low-calorie soda is made with only carbonated water, caramel color, phosphoric acid, aspartame, potassium benzoate, natural flavors, and caffeine. It is certified kosher for Passover by the Orthodox Union.
2. Diet Rite – This diet soda is available in various flavors, including cola, cherry cola, and white grape. It is made with carbonated water, citric acid, natural flavors, potassium citrate, aspartame, potassium benzoate, and acesulfame potassium. Diet Rite is certified kosher for Passover by the Orthodox Union.
3. Zevia – This zero-calorie soda is sweetened with stevia and is available in various flavors, including cola, ginger ale [2], and lemon-lime. It is made with carbonated water, natural flavors, citric acid, and stevia leaf extract. Zevia is certified kosher for Passover by the Orthodox Union.
4. Kedem Sparkling Grape Juice – While not technically a soda, this carbonated grape juice is a popular Passover beverage. It is made with carbonated water, grape juice concentrate, potassium sorbate, and potassium metabisulfite. Kedem Sparkling Grape Juice is certified kosher for Passover by the Orthodox Union.

What To Consider When Consuming Beverages During Passover

When consuming beverages during Passover, it is essential to consider the ingredients and the production process.

Beverages should be made with Passover-approved ingredients and should not have come into contact with chametz or kitniyot. 

Additionally, any equipment used to produce or serve the beverage should be designated kosher for Passover and not used with chametz or kitniyot.

It is also essential to be aware of any restrictions on specific ingredients, such as aspartame or caramel color, as some Jewish authorities may prohibit that. 

FAQs

Key Takeaways

The permissibility of Diet Coke during Passover depends on its ingredients. Aspartame and caramel color are two ingredients in Diet Coke that may be of concern, as some Jewish authorities prohibit their consumption during Passover. 

While Diet Coke is not explicitly listed as kosher for Passover by most certification agencies, some authorities may allow it based on its ingredients. 

Alternatively, Passover-approved diet sodas are available during the holiday, made with permissible ingredients, and certified as kosher for Passover. 

If consumed, it must follow Passover restrictions and not in combination with chametz or kitniyot.

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/245648/oh-so-easy-caramel-sauce/
2. https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/homemade_ginger_ale/