What Vegan Foods Are Kosher?

What Vegan Foods Are Kosher?
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In Judaism, Kashrut refers to laws that govern how foods must be prepared, and which foods may and may not be eaten, according to the Judiasm 101 website. Kosher foods are those that are approved under the laws of Judaism. Although non-Jews often believe that all kosher food must be blessed by a rabbi, such blessings are not necessary to make food kosher. Because many of the Kashrut laws deal with the preparation and combination of meat and dairy products, some Jews find it easier to adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Organic Fruits

All fruits are considered kosher when in their raw, organic state, according to the Chabad website. They do not require kosher certification. Also, all types of fruits are considered vegan--a vegan diet eliminates all products derived from animals, including meats, dairy products, eggs and sometimes honey. Apples, oranges, berries, avocados, tomatoes, lemons and limes are all examples of vegan kosher fruits. However, these fruits may not be vegan or kosher when combined with other foods, or when treated through conventional, non-organic farming methods.

Organic Vegetables

Like organic fruits, all organic vegetables are considered both vegan and kosher when not combined with other foods, according to the Chabad website. In their natural state, these foods do not contain any animal products, and do not violate any of the Jewish Kashrut laws. Examples of vegan kosher vegetables include organic eggplant, asparagus, carrots, broccoli, kale and spinach.

Exceptions and Concerns

Although organic fruits and vegetables are considered both vegan and kosher, insects and worms are not. According to the Judaism 101 website, unprocessed fruits and vegetables should be inspected for worms and insects before consumption. Herbs, lettuce, cauliflower and broccoli are particularly prone to insects. Berries such as strawberries and raspberries should also be inspected closely.

Canned fruits and vegetables may be packed in ingredients that are neither kosher nor vegan. They may also be handled with utensils that have touched non-kosher foods, which renders the fruits and vegetables not kosher.

Although whole grapes are considered kosher, grape products made by non-Jews are not. This includes wine and grape juice.

References

Article reviewed by Jenna Marie Last updated on: Aug 7, 2010

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