Do pharmaceutical vitamins and probiotics need a hechsher?
In general, every product is different and can have various Kashrus concerns. Each vitamin, supplement, and medicine can have many ingredients, and each one would have to be researched as to its origin.
Also, ingredients that would have a connection to grapes or wine can cause significant issues with a products Kashrus status due to the laws of a Non-Jew’s wine.
Additionally, the process through which the product is produced can have an effect on the products Kashrus status as well.
Furthermore, there is a Halachic difference between a Vitamin, Supplement, and Medication.
It is also important to know what the status of the inquirer is, i.e. does the person have a minor condition, do they have a sickness, or are they critically ill. Age as well makes a difference, as for example for a child we are more lenient in certain cases.
I would advise you to contact your local Kashrus agency and verify from them the Kashrus status of each product individually.
Below are a few links to Kashrus websites that can shed some light on the matter of Medicines and Kashrus in general.
If you have any further questions please feel free to let us know.
See here:
Regarding Pesach:
See here as well for additional information on medicines:
Also regarding the issues involved with wine products:
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