KOSHER FAQs What does kosher mean?

The kosher laws (collectively known as kashrut) are a set of dietary requirements in Judaism. The word “kosher” comes from a Hebrew word meaning “proper” or “fit,” as in, fit for consumption. Rules include a prohibition of consuming blood, requirements for types of animals that are allowed to be eaten (animals with cloven hooves and fish that have scales, for example), and the prohibition of mixing meat and dairy.

What does keeping kosher have to do with being vegetarian/vegan?

Because many of the kosher laws have to do with meat, a vegan/vegetarian diet is compatible with kosher food laws. Non-kosher, prohibited foods, called treif, generally include prohibited meat or meat that was not handled properly. All food that is not meat or dairy is called parve, meaning neutral, and these types of food are all vegetarian (except for fish). Dairy, which is absent in vegan food, is not an issue in vegetarian food since there is no fear of mixing it with meat. By taking meat out of the equation, it allows people with many different types of diets to sit down at the same table as a community.

Why is keeping kosher important, and to whom?

Keeping kosher is a cultural and religious expression of Judaism. The kosher laws originate in the Torah, also known as the Hebrew Bible or the five books of Moses, and are interpreted in the Talmud, which is a collection of rabbinic writings from the 2nd to the 10th centuries. However, not all Jews keep kosher, and for those that do, there is a spectrum of interpretation and observance of kashrut. Some people follow it because it is Jewish law; others follow it because it connects them to their heritage or they grew up eating kosher and continue to follow that tradition.

What is the kosher certification of Marty’s Place?

Marty’s Place will be under the authority of the Kosher Commission of Charleston.

What is a mashgiach? Will there be a mashgiach present?

The word mashgiach means “supervisor” in Hebrew. A mashgiach in a kosher facility ensures that all of the rules of kashrut are followed. A qualified mashgiach will be on site daily.

Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program Revised 1/7/2016