Kosher (Kashrut)

Jewish dietary laws forbid eating meat and dairy products at the same meal. In a strictly kosher home, complete separation of meat and dairy utensils, accessories, and appliances is maintained.

Today, although many Israelis do not observe the strict rules of Kashrut, the separation of meat and dairy is a cultural observance.

Fish is not considered meat, but in order for fish to be kosher, it must have both fins and scales (e.g. trout, haddock, and St. Peter’s fish). All shellfish are not kosher.

Cheeses produced in Israel are kosher. All cheeses from outside of Israel are non-kosher, unless kosher certification has been issued by the local rabbi.

Foods that are neither meat nor dairy, nor derivatives of them, are ‘parve’ or neutral and can be served with both meat and dairy meals.

When a non-kosher host invites someone who keeps kosher, the best thing to do is to ask directly what kinds of foods the guest will be able to eat.