Handling of Shemitah Food Leftovers
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Question
What should be done with leftovers that are still fit for human or animal consumption?
Answer
Food leftovers and peels sanctified with the holiness of the Shemitah year should be placed in a closed plastic bag and put in a special Shemitah bin, not mixed with other garbage, as this causes them to spoil quickly. It is written 'for eating - not for destruction', which prohibits causing fruits to spoil intentionally. After the leftovers have been in the bin for two or three days, they are considered spoiled and can be discarded in the trash.
Source
Terumot (Chapter 11, Mishnah 5-8); Rambam (Terumot, Chapter 11, Halacha 11, 14); Chazon Ish (Siman 9, Se'if Katan 4; Siman 14, Se'if Katan 10); Azmera Leshimcha (Shemitah, Issue 3).
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