Nonkashr

Nonkashr (also spelled *non-kosher* or *non-kosher*) refers to any food, beverage, or product that does not meet the dietary laws of **Kashrut**, the set of Jewish dietary rules derived from the Torah and elaborated upon in the Talmud. These laws are observed by **Kosher-observant Jews** and some non-Jewish individuals who follow similar dietary guidelines for personal or ethical reasons.

The primary principles of Kashrut include the distinction between **kosher** (permitted) and **treifah** (non-kosher) foods. Animals must be **slaughtered in a specific manner** (*shechita*) by a trained professional (*shochet*) to be considered kosher. Only certain animals are permitted, such as mammals with split hooves and ruminants (e.g., cattle, sheep, goats), as well as specific birds (e.g., chicken, turkey). Fish must have **scales and fins** to be kosher. Insects and most shellfish are prohibited.

Dairy and meat products are **never combined** in the same meal or kitchenware, adhering to the principle of *basar b’chalav* (meat with milk). Certain foods, such as pork, shellfish, and blood, are inherently non-kosher. Additionally, **proper preparation methods**, such as salting meat to remove blood, are required for kosher certification.

Non-kosher foods may be consumed by those who do not follow Kashrut, though some may avoid them for health, ethical, or cultural reasons. Many restaurants and food manufacturers provide **kosher certification symbols** (e.g., *OU, OK, KOF-K*) to indicate compliance with Kashrut standards. Violations of these rules are considered **transgressions** in Jewish law, though enforcement varies among observant communities.