Is it permitted to give food to someone who will not recite a blessing?

Greetings,

In principle, it is forbidden to give food to people who will not recite a blessing, because you are causing them to eat without a blessing. However, if you ask them to recite a blessing (and with men, you should also ask them to cover their heads while reciting the blessing, and with bread you should ask both men and women to wash their hands), and they still do not recite a blessing, then you have done your part, and no blame rests upon you.

However, if there is concern that suggesting they recite a blessing would offend their dignity, or if it is clear to you that they will not respond affirmatively to your request, it is better not to suggest that they recite a blessing. Even so, it will be permitted for you to honor them with food and drink if withholding such honor would cause a desecration of Hashem’s name, leading them to say that Torah-observant Jews lack manners and proper conduct, and it could lead to anger and hatred toward all who walk in the way of Torah. In any case, in such a situation, it is very proper to recite the blessing aloud before them before and after eating, and although they do not intend to fulfill their obligation through it, it may still be assumed that they understand that the blessing is being said on their behalf, which is akin to having intention to fulfill one’s obligation.

Sources: See Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim (siman 169, seifim 1-2), the Mishnah Berurah there, and Piskei Teshuvot (letter 3). See also Sefer Minhagei HaRishon LeTzion, part 2 (page 72), in the name of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef shlita, that when non-observant Jews, such as heads of government in Israel, would come to Rabbi Ovadia Yosef zt"l, he would say that refreshments and drinks should be served before them, and he would ask them to recite a blessing before eating and drinking.

With blessings,

Hillel Meirs