What is a Kosher in Judaism?
Judaism has complex dietary laws, known as Kashrut (or Kosher), which designate permissible foods that can be consumed. It is based on Biblical instructions (as outlined in the first five books of the Hebrew Bible) which are then further detailed by rabbinical interpretation and Jewish law. The kosher laws apply to both land animals and fish, as well as certain types of food mixtures. Kosher food is any food item that meets the dietary regulations outlined in Jewish law.
Symbolism of Kosher Laws
Kosher laws are not just about food; they also carries religious and spiritual symbolism. They encourage people to take greater care in the things that they consume, and to treat the food that is on their plate with respect. Eating food that is not kosher is seen to be an act of disrespect to God. Keeping kosher also signifies an individual’s commitment to their faith and reinforces the idea that food is wrongfully used as a platform for sin.
It is also important to emphasise the importance of moderation. Eating disorders are, unfortunately, rampant – particularly in Jewish American communities – and the symbolisation of self-control is integral to the precepts of the kosher law. For example, the wait of time between eating meat and dairy serves as a reminder to savour the food, and to place a focus on quality rather than quantity.
Keeping Kosher in Everyday Life
In order to maintain a kosher lifestyle, individuals must familiarise themselves with the laws and guidelines of what is considered to be kosher food. Typically, kosher food doesn’t include pork, shellfish, some species of fish, certain amphibians and reptiles, and birds of prey, as well as the mixing of meat and dairy. Keeping kosher does not only refer to the type of food consumed but also how it is cooked and served.
Additionally, weekly activities around kosher food often become occasions for families to gather and appreciate each other, thereby reinforcing family ties. The Friday night Shabbat meal, in particular, has become an emblem of a lasting and abundant family meal, and is celebrated around the world.
Kosher in Modern Society
Kosher food has grown increasingly popular in recent years, for two main reasons. Firstly, the food has become desirable for people with strict dietary requirements, and diners who are on a lookout for healthier meals. Secondly, many people have become interested in tasting, cooking, and learning more about different cultures and religions through their food, and discovering the tangible and intangible benefits of keeping kosher – both religiously and health-wise.
Various restaurants and food chains have responded to the demands of the kosher-keeping community by offering more variety and including more kosher food in their menus. Many of these places have kosher supervision, including the much-loved McDonalds and KFC. However, home-cooked meals remain by far the most popular choice, as this further reinforces the idea of respect for one’s plate.
The Kosher Check
Kosher food can be identified by looking for the word ‘kosher’ on the product’s packaging, or a valid kosher certification symbol from a reputable organisation. One must always look out for symbols such as ‘K’, ‘P’ or ‘D’; which certify that the product is kosher according to the laws of the specific country. If a product does not bear a kosher certification symbol, one should double check with the manufacturer to ensure that the product is in fact kosher.
It is important to note that in certain cases, a product may simply contain kosher ingredients, but not be classified as kosher – as it is made on utensils or machinery which have previously been used to produce non-kosher foods.
Religious and Cultural Relevance
In Orthodox Jewish communities, many restaurants and food stalls have been certified as being kosher. The fact that kosher is so deeply embedded into the culture of certain devout communities highlights the importance it holds, as well as its ability to bring people together.
In addition, keeping kosher gives individuals a sense of connectedness to God and their religious observance – especially at events like Shabbat. The emphasis on quality and restriction in food consumption also supports the idea of understanding individuals’ purpose and how religious beliefs shape their behaviour.
Environmental Impact of Kosher Foods
Due to the regulations imposed by the kosher rules, manufacturers must use strict processes in their production and look into the ingredients and sources more carefully. This is beneficial to the environment, as it ensures the use of more ethical ingredients, without including additives like preservatives, which can pollute the planet.
In some cases, the need for separate utensils and machinery officially designated as kosher means there is an additional requirement for manufacturing. This can ultimately cause an increase in waste and financial output for the company.
The Impact of Kosher Foods on Health
The regulations of the kosher laws often result in a healthier diet, as it bans the use of particular animal products or the mixing of certain ingredients. This reduces the risk of contamination from unhealthy microorganisms, and minimises exposure to undesirable chemicals that might be present in the food supply.
Moreover, since food mixtures that contain meat and dairy are not allowed, this discourages the consumption of high-fat dairy products, which can be detrimental to one’s health in the form of weight gain, high cholesterol, and even some forms of cancer. This can also help individuals follow a diet that is more tailored to their specific dietary and health needs, such as weight loss or muscle-building, while still eating food that is kosher.
Supply & Demand of Kosher Foods
The demand for kosher food continues to rise due to its health benefits, religious connection and its appeal to consumers of different dietary needs. In order to accommodate this, food companies have developed alternative kosher products which are free from additives and unhealthy ingredients.
Not only is this good for the people consuming the food, but it also means that the suppliers are pushed to source ingredients from ethical and sustainable sources, therefore helping to reduce the environmental impact of the industry. Companies like Osem, a leading Middle Eastern food brand, have invested heavily in sustainable practices and location transparency in order to meet the increasing demands for kosher foods.
Kosher Certification
In order for a food product to become certified as kosher, it must pass an inspection by a qualified authority. Any facility or product which wishes to obtain a valid kosher certification is inspected thoroughly, and if it meets the set criteria, it is issued a certificate.
The organised, regularly updated and comprehensive kosher system of certification is what sets kosher food apart. It allows people, both of the Jewish faith and not, to easily look out for kosher food.
Economic Benefits of Kosher Food
Due to its popularity, the kosher market has grown in size and the sale of kosher food is increasing worldwide. It has become a prosperous industry and companies are getting benefits from the market by entering it and targeting a larger audience.
Additionally,labelling kosher food means a higher sale which ultimately leads to an increased turnover for companies. This makes the value of kosher products more attractive for investors, which further increases the profits of these companies.
The Future of Kosher Foods
In recent years, millennials in particular have become more informed about their diet and its importance in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This means that there is a large, growing audience that is paying attention to their dietary choices and values the kosher regulations.
Coupled with the increasing demand for alternative food sources, the future of kosher food looks promising. Moreover, the efforts of companies like Osem in enforcing sustainable practices and provenance traceability in the production of kosher products will further help the industry to remain competitive.
