| By :
Mark Etinger
With the demand of kosher meals on the rise, you might be surprised to learn that only 15 percent of consumers buy the specialty goods for religious reasons. If you’re rusty on what it means to keep kosher, here’s a quick refresher: kosher foods are prepared in ways that conform to Jewish dietary rules, permitting certain animal meats to be consumed in accordance with the laws of Kashrut, which outline humane slaughtering, cleanliness, and other biblical strictures found in The Torah. It’s an ethical and vigilant way of eating that’s rooted in Judaism. So why do 85 percent of people buying kosher packaged meals do so regardless of religion? The widely reported benefits of eating kosher meals are appealing in an agriculturally controversial time where you’re not always sure where your food comes from—and how it’s been handled. Here are the top five reasons for secular kosher food consumption: Animal Cruelty The ethics of farm-raised livestock has come under fire in recent years. Exposed slaughterhouse tactics and stomach-turning animal cruelty has been shocking enough convert former omnivores to vegans, but those looking to eat humanely-produced protein are purchasing kosher meals more frequently. Animals raised in kosher facilities are required by Jewish law to be treated kindly, fed a special diet, and executed compassionately through the carotid artery. The remains are then rinsed in cold, salt water to remove blood and inspected by rabbis. Food Allergies The amount of dietary strictures honored in kosher foods makes it a convenient resource for individuals with soy, shellfish or gluten allergies. Certain kosher meals labels also designate products made without dairy or meat products, making it accessible to vegetarians. Food Safety With the frequency of meat and produce recalls due to health hazards, consumers are turning to kosher meats and packaged meals as a safety measure against food-related illnesses. In 2007, Agricultural researchers found that the kosher process of salting-and-rinsing animal meat reduced salmonella contamination in tainted chicken skin by 80 percent. Quality Many consumers regard kosher goods as viable substitutes for organic or local goods, due to the quality standards they must pass before qualifying. Muslims following halal strictures have been shown to choose kosher meals in the absence of halal options. Gastronomy Non-Jewish foodies have contributed to the demand for kosher goods because of its rich history and distinct, Middle Eastern flavor profiles. Notable kosher meals include stuffed cabbage, cheese blintzes, baba ganoush, beef stews and potato knishes. Increased production of kosher wines has expanded varietal offerings and met demand beyond Manischewitz. With the prevalence of kosher food consumption outside of religious rites, it’s possible that many consumers have enjoyed the benefits of kosher meals without even realizing it. Next time you’re in the grocery store, take a quick look at the package. You’ll know it’s kosher if it’s certified with a distinct “K.” The hundreds of packaged meals and prepared foods are produced for the Jewish community, but enjoyed by many.
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