Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi David Lau on Wednesday 15 Elul 5773 made a surprise visit to the Tzrifin wholesale produce market after midnight. The major facility distributes fruits and vegetables to areas around Israel.

The rav’s arrival came as a surprise to the dozens of workers, and he requested to review the taking of trumos and maasros as well as speaking with and reviewing the work of the mashgichim. Accompanying the rav was Be’er Yaakov Chief Rabbi Avraham Jacobson, Chief Rabbinate Director-General Oded Weiner, the Director of the Mitzvos Tluyos B’aretz Rabbi Mordechai Biderman, Rabbi Schneur Zalman Revach along with local officials. Those in charge of the market told Rabbi Lau the facility is open to all inspections at all times.

The rav spoke with the workers and mashgichim, explaining to the workers and their supervisors that their cooperation with regulations and the mashgichim is essential towards absolute compliance with Halacha. He commended the team work that exists and praised the staff for their role in ensuring proper kashrus in the facility. The rav left at about 02:00.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)