Doe Runs Sodium Sulfate Earns Kosher Approval



The recycling of lead-acid batteries by The Doe Run Company's Buick Resource Recycling Division not only benefits the environment, but it also helps supply materials for multiple manufacturing industries. Although lead is the primary recycled resource extracted from these batteries, the process also creates kosher-certified sodium sulfate, a salt commonly used in the manufacturing of starch.

"Though none of the sodium sulfate we produce is contained in food, it is used in making an industrial, corn-based starch that goes into papermaking or cardboard production," said Lou Magdits, Doe Run's director of raw materials.

Because this paper packaging may come into contact with food later on, the Buick Resource Recycling Division adheres to kosher processing procedures for the sodium sulfate process. "Kosher" is a term used to describe products made in accordance with Jewish law. Suppliers of Kosher-certified products require certifications at all steps in the manufacturing supply chain.

"For instance, if a company is making Kosher macaroni, all items that touch the noodles (the plastic window and the cardboard box) must have been produced in a Kosher-certified process," added Magdits.

The sodium sulfate process is certified by the Chicago Rabbinical Council (



Doe Runs Sodium Sulfate Earns Kosher Approval