The Acceptance Of Kosher Meals

By Brenda Evans


Many religions in the world have rules and regulations concerning various aspects of their lives and worship. The Jews strictly observe a number of rules including eating habits. Kosher meals refer to foods that are fit and appropriate for Jews to eat. It follows the teachings and instructions that are found in the Hebrew bible more specifically the Torah. The late antiquities rabbis developed the precise system used today. Subsequent generations and changing times and systems of food preparation, processing and storage have influenced its recent changes and applications.

Those who keenly read the Torah must have realized that in early times, God commanded vegetarianism. As time progressed, eating of certain animals was allowed. Land animals eaten were those that had split hooves and chewed cud. Other animals prohibited include camel, hyrax, pig, hare and carnivores. A person who observed religion and was considered pious only did slaughter.

Sea creatures eaten are only the fish that have fins and scales. Any other creature is not allowed. Birds that are eaten are those that are traditionally known to be pure and acceptable. These include chicken, geese, turkey and duck. Those that prey or scavenge on other animals are not to be eaten. Additionally, certain products were also not allowed. These include any that come from a non-kosher animal and products that are prepared together with meat.

Today, these Jewish meals are considered to be better in terms of health and safety. For this reason, they have been in high demand in the last few years. This has created a boom in the industry with many companies producing and distributing the foodstuff. Even though most of the customers who demand these products do not understand the religious implications, they appreciate its purity and safety.

Regulatory authorities in the industry issue certifications for compliance. They strictly observe, investigate and ensure adherence in the processing, preservation and storage. All food that is legal to eat is clearly labeled as such. This includes processed meals, slaughtered meat and dairy products. The reason for this strictness is that today there are many preservatives that contain impure products not eaten by Jews.

The reason why this industry is growing is due to increased demand for these foods by both Jews and non-Jews alike. Many people are very weary of the many products that are added for preservation and flavor. This is because of cases of allergies and the belief that these additives are impure. A good example is the dislike of gluten.

Giant companies such as Coca Cola are increasingly spending a lot of money on campaigns that offer support for these religious meals. The main reason for this development is that, these companies have realized that there is looming potential in these products. They are seeking to tap into the business and attract customers.

Of the total kosher foods purchases, only fifteen percent are purely for religious purposes. Many buy them for health reasons, quality and safety. Even though there are many challenges facing the industry, it is slowly gaining mainstream awareness. If these products are well marketed to the public, many who look for organic foods as well as those cautious of their diet could be persuaded to turn kosher.




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