Mishloach manot, the cherished Purim tradition of sharing gifts of food, turns celebration into connection. Rooted in Jewish law and history, these packages ensure everyone can rejoice, strengthen friendships, and spread joy throughout the community. Whether you choose classic treats or modern twists, mishloach manot make Purim a day of generosity and unity. 

What Are Mishloach Manot?

A young JDC volunteer delivers mishloach manot to an elderly community member in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine.

Mishloach manot (also called shalach manos) are food gifts exchanged on Purim to fulfill the mitzvah of sending portions to friends. The practice comes from the Book of Esther (9:22), which marks Purim as a time for feasting, sharing food gifts, and supporting those in need (a separate mitzvah called matanot la-evyonim, or “gifts to the poor”). Sending ready-to-eat items helps ensure that everyone can partake in the Purim meal and feel included in the celebration. Today, many people assemble these gifts as mishloach manot baskets, sometimes described simply as a “Purim basket,” to make delivery easy and festive.

Historically, communities prepared simple baskets of foods that could be enjoyed immediately. Over time, the custom evolved into more creative assortments, while preserving its purpose: to elevate joy, strengthen unity, and express gratitude for the deliverance recounted in the Purim story.

Exchanging mishloach manot creates tangible moments of connection. It bridges social gaps, builds neighborly bonds, and invites participation from children and adults alike — a mitzvah that emphasizes kindness, dignity, and shared celebration.

What Are the Laws and Guidelines for Mishloach Manot?

Delivering food and other vital assistance to vulnerable Jews is a hallmark of JDC’s global mission — on Purim and each day of the year. 

To fulfill the mitzvah, send at least two different ready-to-eat food items to at least one person on Purim day. While many families deliver multiple packages, one proper delivery fulfills the obligation. Packaging them as mishloach manot baskets can help keep items organised and presentable.

Each portion should be respectable and suitable for a Purim meal. Many include items with distinct blessings, such as baked goods and fruit, or a beverage and a snack. Foods should be immediately edible — think pastries, cooked dishes, drinks, or packaged treats — rather than raw ingredients. A simple Purim basket with two quality foods meets the Jewish legal standard, while larger assortments are optional.

Deliver mishloach manot during the daylight hours of Purim in your community (the 14th of Adar, or the 15th in walled cities like Jerusalem). Personal delivery underscores the idea of giving “to one another.” A brief greeting enhances the spirit of the day. Remember, mishloach manot complements, but does not replace, the other Purim mitzvot: hearing the Megillah, giving matanot la-evyonim (gifts to the poor), and enjoying the festive meal.

What Are Some Creative Ideas for Mishloach Manot?

Volunteers at the JDC-supported Hesed Nefesh social service center in Poltava, Ukraine, bake hamantaschen that will be distributed to vulnerable Jews in their community.

Personalize your gifts with themes that reflect your interests or traditions. Consider color palettes (gold and royal purple for an Esther motif), book-inspired moments from the Megillah, or cuisine-focused packages like Israeli brunch, Mediterranean mezze, or classic deli. Kid-friendly ideas — superheroes, carnival, or a hamantaschen bakery — add extra fun to deliveries. 

Traditional items include hamantaschen in assorted fillings, dried fruits and nuts, kugel squares, chilled beverages, pastries, and candies. Contemporary options might feature gourmet popcorn, artisan chocolates, granola bars, flavored seltzers, dips with crackers, or miniature challah rolls. For fans of savory foods, add pickles, olives, jerky, or a ready-to-eat salad. Be mindful of dietary needs with nut-free, vegan, or gluten-free variations when appropriate. Thoughtful curation turns simple mishloach manot into memorable food baskets that delight recipients.

Presentation elevates the experience. Use reusable containers like tote bags, mason jars, or baking tins; secure items with food-safe wrap; and label components clearly. Include a short Purim greeting and an ingredient list for allergens. Keep portions modest yet dignified, prioritizing quality and freshness over quantity. If delivering many packages, plan an efficient route and keep refrigerated items cold so your kindness arrives in perfect condition.