Extreme caution is taken in the preparation of matzah (unleavened bread) for the Passover holiday. Every step of the process, beginning with the harvesting of wheat in the early months of summer, is carefully supervised to ensure that there is no contact between wheat and water. Even a drop of water could result in fermentation and render the wheat or flour unsuitable. Furthermore, among Hassidim, every activity associated with matzah production is regarded as part of the mitzvah (biblical commandment) to eat unleavened bread on Passover night, and is therefore attended with ceremony and excitement.