Kosher Foods Definition

Kosher refers to a way of eating that follows Jewish law. The laws are found in the Torah. There is more to it than just what is eaten. The way in which food is prepared, what it is prepared with and how it's served are all defined.

Whether you have to eat kosher foods or if you make kosher foods for other people you need to know what the exact definition is. This is a very strict diet that must be followed for the sake people’s religion.

Jewish Law

Food that is kosher must strictly follow the Jewish law. They must be made a certain way on specific dishes and only certain types of food can be eaten. Many people will use the word kosher for more than referring to food. They may say this when referring to something that is not right or appropriate.

Types of Animals

Any animals that are cud chewing or cloven hoofed are considered kosher in accordance to the Torah. This means that animals such as rabbit or pig are not kosher where as goat, deer and sheep are. Not all birds are considered kosher. Goose, chicken, turkey and duck are okay to eat.

Seafood

In order for seafood to be kosher, it has to have scales that can easily be removed and have fins. This means that shellfish are not considered to be kosher. Fish such as herring, tuna and carp can only be considered kosher if they are made correctly. This means that a kosher chef must make them with kosher tools and machines.

Additional Rules

Some foods cannot be served together to be kosher. Fish and any meat as well as meat and milk cannot be served together. If there are any processed foods being made, they have to be done in a rabbi’s presence in order to be considered kosher.