Matzo major forms of matzo. In many western countries the most common form is the hard form of matzo which is cracker-like in appearance and taste and is used in all Ashkenazic and most Sephardic communities. Yemenites, and Iraqi Jews traditionally made a form of soft matzo which looks like Greek pita or like a tortilla. Soft matzo is made only by hand, and generally with "shmurah" flour. Flavored varieties of matzo are produced commercially, such as poppy seed- or onion-flavored. Oat and spelt matzo with kosher certification are produced. Oat matzo is generally suitable for those who cannot eat gluten.
Christian observances of Jewish holidays Bread, prior to which all leavening agents are removed from one's house and property, including bread products made with yeast, sodium bicarbonate or baking powder. These are believed to symbolize sin during this time period. Members also eat unleavened bread, which is believed to be a spiritual picture of living a Christlike life by partaking of the "true Bread of life" and avoiding sin. The first and last days are observed as holy days, with a congregational meeting and meal of unleavened food. Traditionally, there is also the observance of a special meal the evening before the first day, referred