Question:
Hello!!
Thanks for reading my message.
I am a little confused about the Shabat hot plate.
1) Is it okay to use for both dairy and meat (not at the same time)?
2) If in the past I have used it for both at different times of the day, food is usually in pots or Pyrex containers. There might have been times when some meat juice dripped on it, or maybe if my kids heat up a pastry with only baking paper underneath. I always clean it afterward, of course. I read somewhere that some people always put an aluminum tray, but I haven’t done that. If I start doing it, is it parve or what?
Have I made mistakes then? If so, is there anything to do?
3) For example, last Shabbat my wooden spatula with meat touched the plate, so, for instance, is that a problem?
Sorry for such a long message with different questions. I really appreciate your help to clarify and see if there’s anything I need to get rid of or kasher.
Thank you
Answer:
Hello,
- You should not use the hot plate for both milk and meat, because spills can occur, and then it becomes milky or meaty.
- Using a tray under each item will help. Starting to use it with a tray will not make it pareve, but it will help ensure that any meat or milk is absorbed into the tray.
- You are correct. This is another instance in which the plate will become meaty. If the plate was not used for milky items for 24 hours prior to the spatula falling on it, the spatula is still permitted to use.
Best wishes
