Halal vs kosher: these are the differences and similarities
One belongs to Islam, the other to Judaism, and both prohibit pork. Most people know that much. But what are the other similarities and differences between halal and kosher?
Within Islam, a distinction is made between haram and halal. Halal is everything that is permitted; haram is everything that is prohibited. This applies to various dietary laws.
Similarities
Carnivores: In both cases, pork is indeed strictly forbidden. Eating animals with split hooves is explicitly prohibited, and these are mainly pigs. But that is not all: eating carnivores is not permitted either. So whether it is a monkey or a harrier, it is not allowed.
Amphibians and insects: Amphibians and insects are also forbidden. Although some species of locust are an exception.
Gelatin: Gelatin is usually made from pork products and is therefore prohibited in both Islam and Judaism.
Differences
Alcohol: So much for the similarities. On to the differences. Because Judaism’s dietary laws are somewhat stricter than those of Islam, the rule is: in principle, everything that is kosher is also halal. There is one exception: alcohol. Kosher wine does exist, but alcohol is never halal.
Sharks and shellfish: Within Islam, all sea animals are considered halal. To be kosher, however, aquatic animals must have both scales and fins. Shellfish and sharks are therefore not kosher.
Camels: The similarities already made this clear: herbivores are halal, provided they are slaughtered according to the proper rules. To be kosher, there is one additional requirement: mammals must chew their cud and have split hooves. As a result, some animals, such as rabbits and camels, are halal but not kosher.
Combining: this dietary rule is fairly well known: to be kosher, dairy and meat products must remain strictly separated, even when they are each kosher individually. This also applies to tableware.
Rule of thumb
In general, everything that is kosher is also halal, except for alcohol. So, do you have both halal and kosher guests coming over? Cook kosher (without wine sauce) and you’ll be fine.
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