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What is Kosher

What is Kosher?

The definition of Kosher is a food that is considered clean or fit to eat by Jewish dietary laws, or is slang for OK or CORRECT. It’s the food that satisfies the requirement of Jewish law. A food product or beverage can apply the kosher label if each ingredient used therein, food additives, colorants, preservatives, process, equipment’sand methods are fully compliant with Kosher specifications.Rabbi finally approved the production process before the any organization can apply the Kosher logo. Kosher Laws are so strict that if equipment’s used to manufacture any non-kosher foods or item are used for kosher foods then that specific food can no longer carry the kosher label until cleaning is not done as per Kosher standards.

What is Kosher Certified?

When a product is Kosher certified, it means that it has passed a thorough inspection to ensure it follows the Jewish dietary laws. This involves checking ingredients, preparation methods, and the production environment to make sure everything aligns with kosher standards. Once certified, the product is given a Kosher certificate, which allows it to be marketed as kosher.

What is Kosher Certification?

Kosher certification is a formal process where an independent body verifies that a product meets Jewish dietary laws. The certification process includes reviewing ingredients, inspecting production methods, and ensuring that no cross-contamination occurs with non-kosher items. Once these standards are met, the product receives a Kosher certificate, indicating that it’s suitable for consumption by those who observe kosher laws.

Pareve

Food not carrying of dairy or meat components is termed Pareve. Fruits, vegetables, grains, fish and eggs are considered eligible for Pareve label. Fruits and vegetables must be washed thoroughly to remove any lurking insects. For foods to carry the pareve label, care must be taken that they are not processed in equipment’s that are used to process dairy or meat products at temperatures above 40 deg. C. Although fish is considered kosher but all fishes are not kosher ,Only fish species that have fins and scales that can be removed with ease are considered kosher. Tuna, sole, plaice and salmon are kosher. Shellfish, eels, shark, monkfish, huss, catfish and sturgeon are non-kosher. Fish by products such as roe and fish oil as well as gelatine are certified kosher only if derived from kosher fish. Similar Eggs are kosher provided they are obtained from kosher birds and do not carry any blood spots.

Benefits of Kosher Certification

1. Enhances Customer/Supplier Relationships
2. Continuous Improvement in Service to Suppliers
3. Continuous Improvement of Service to Subscribers
4. Standardized Quality System Requirements
5. Increase Efficiency to Save Time, Money and Resources
6. Increase Market Opportunities

Who can be certified Kosher Certification?

Meat

Only specific animals and birds are considered kosher according to the Bible. Buffalo, Goats and Sheep are kosher. Chicken, turkey, goose and duck are kosher. Slaughter of animals and birds must follow Jewish laws. Blood needs to be removed by salting or roasting process and this process of slaughter and salting is supervised by a rabbi.

Dairy

Any Dairy products can carry the kosher label only if milk is obtained from kosher animals. Strictly orthodox communities may specify strict supervision which is known as Cholov Yisroel, which is particularly implemented in the manufacture of cheese in which rennet derived from animal intestines or stomach is used.

Wines & Grapes

Grape juice, wine vinegar and wine made using dried or fresh grapes requires handling by Jews from start to finish in order to qualify for the Kosher label. Any product that uses grape flavoring or grape additives requires kosher certification.

Bread

Bread can carry kosher at two levels. Bread or similar products must also comply with regular kosher norms in addition to the two levels. These two levels are Pas Palter meaning bread made by a non-Jewish professional baker and Pas Yisroel meaning bread prepared and baked by Jews in accordance with age old Jewish methods. Orthodox Jews would insist on Pas Yisroel while others would find Pas Palter acceptable.

Insects

All insects are non-kosher and specific care must be taken to ensure vegetables and fruits are free of insects by thorough washing, cleaning and inspection for such category of foods to qualify for kosher label.

Passover

The Jews celebrate Passover for 8 days during springtime and during this period it is expressly forbidden to partake of fermented food or beverages made using barley, oat, spelt, rye and wheat. Even utensils used for preparing foods or cooking foods using these ingredients is forbidden during Passover.

FAQ of Kosher Certification

Kosher certification signifies that a food product or service adheres to the strict dietary laws of Judaism. These laws, known as Kashrut, govern everything from the types of food permitted to the methods of preparation and equipment used.

Obtaining kosher certification can open up new market opportunities for India businesses, including:
Catering to the Jewish community: India has a small but vibrant Jewish community, and offering kosher options can attract this dedicated customer base.
Exporting food products: Many countries, particularly in North America and Europe, have significant Jewish populations and a high demand for kosher food.
Building brand trust: Kosher certification demonstrates a commitment to quality and ethical production, which can enhance a brand's reputation.

Several kosher certification agencies operate in India, offering services ranging from consultation and guidance to full-fledged inspections and certification. Some reputable agencies include: Kosher Certifications Services

The specific process varies depending on the agency and the type of product or service being certified. However, it generally involves the following steps:
Application: The business submits an application to the chosen agency, outlining their products and processes.
Inspection: A rabbi or qualified kosher supervisor visits the facility to assess compliance with Kashrut requirements.
Corrective actions: If any issues are identified, the agency will work with the business to implement corrective actions.
Certification: Once all requirements are met, the agency issues a kosher certificate.

The cost of kosher certification varies depending on the size and complexity of the operation. However, it typically ranges from a few thousand rupees to several lakhs.

The process involves contacting a Kosher certification agency, undergoing an inspection and audit, implementing any necessary changes to meet Kosher standards, and receiving the official certification upon approval.

You can contact Kosher certification agencies directly for specific details about their services. Additionally, online resources like the Jewish Federation of India or the Indian Kashrut Council can provide further information and guidance.