Are there any opinions out there regarding the permissibility or impermissibility of consuming kosher foods?  I have always been suspicious of them and have avoided them on the grounds that they might be cursed due to being "blessed" by rabbis.  On the other hand, unless somebody only eats at his own home, kosher foods seem inescapable.  Are these foods not then consecrated to the idolatry of the Jєωs? Is this an unreasonable concern?

Do kosher dill pickles count? I won't give up my kosher dills! That just wouldn't be kosher!

 :ready-to-eat:It is perfectly fine to eat kosher foods.  What it means is that they meet Jєωιѕн dietary laws-not solely limited to those described in the Scripture, but vastly expanded as in the тαℓмυd.  They are INSPECTED as to method of slaughter, the preparatory and packing method and environment and cleanliness of facility.  They are "blessed" or even touched by a rabbi.  Whether a food is kosher is irrelevant for Catholics.  I know this because I've done extensive research among the ultra-Orthodox, "hasidic" Jєωs of Brooklyn.

 :barf:Halal food is another story entirely!  Catholics should not eat any halal meat product, as the animal is dedicated to "allah" before it is slaughtered.  Dairy and plant foods fall into the "dubious" category.  They are similar to kosher in that there is no blessing or prayer over them. Unlike kosher foods,  they must be produced or raised in a Muslim-owned or connected facility.  The Jєωs merely inspect the facility or farm which is, in fact, often owned by a Gentile.  If no other food is available, a Catholic may eat all but the meat.  For example, a relative of mine visited in-laws in a Muslim country where all the food was halal.  He became a vegetarian for two weeks!  Normally, Catholics should veto all food labeled halal.  

 :ready-to-eat:But if you like kosher pickles, gefilte fish, matzos, pastrami on rye, NY bagels and lox, go ahead and enjoy!  You can even mix the meat and dairy without risking your soul!

 :confused1:If you are still doubtful, then follow St. Paul's advice to the Roman Catholics, Romans, ch. 14, and eat neither.  
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Post is by Frances

 :ready-to-eat:Back again!  Our Lord said that which goes into a man does not defile him; it is that which comes out that is sinful.  Check St. Matthew, ch. 15.

p.s.  I guarantee every Catholic on CI has at least a half-dozen kosher products in his home and doesn't know it!

Everything goes better with bacon!

Eat what you want if it tastes good.

-Pheo (still getting used to this subforum)

Welcome Pheo.
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