Chametz, Matzah, and What to Do If You Find Chametz During Pesach

1. Finding Chametz During Pesach
If you come across chametz during Pesach in a public area, such as on the street, no specific action is required. However, if chametz is found in your own home, the response depends on when it is discovered. If it is found on a festival day, it should be covered and left untouched until the holiday ends, and only then burned. If it is found during Chol HaMoed, it should be burned immediately.

2. Who Must Sell Chametz?
Both private individuals and businesses are required to sell their chametz before Pesach. A business that did not sell its chametz is strictly forbidden to purchase from, even after the holiday.

3. The Obligation to Eat Matzah
The obligation to eat matzah applies specifically on the night of the Seder. It is considered a higher level of observance to eat shmurah matzah, which has been supervised from the time of harvest until baking. During the rest of the festival, there is no obligation to eat matzah.

4. Searching for Chametz on an Airplane?
The mitzvah of removing chametz applies not only to one’s home or car, but also to any private property, including a private airplane, a business, a synagogue, or any possession under one’s ownership.

5. Matzah Lovers Should Wait Until the Seder Night
Whether you enjoy matzah or not, it is strictly forbidden to eat matzah on the day before Pesach, prior to the Seder night.

6. What If Chametz Falls Into a Pot?
If even a small crumb of chametz falls into a pot during the seven days of Pesach, the contents of the pot and its continued use become prohibited.