- Most gelatin comes from the bones of cattle. However, there are other sources of gelatin and each is considered separately when labeling as kosher or non-kosher. If a gelatin comes from a source that is neither animal-based nor dairy-based, it is pareve, meaning it is a neutral food and Jewish adherents, wanting to remain kosher, may consume this items. This type of gelatin comes from carob beans, agar-agar, guar gum and xanthan gum.
- Just because gelatin comes from an animal does not immediately qualify it as traif, meaning forbidden. To be kosher, the gelatin must not come from an animal that Judaism considers to be unclean, such as swine or certain types of shellfish or shallow-water fish. Deep water fish may be used in the preparation of kosher gelatin. In short, gelatin may be kosher if the animal it came from was kosher but all forms of vegetarian gelatin are considered kosher.
- There is no consensus between rabbis on the subject of kosher gelatin from animals. There is a disagreement between rabbis about the gelatin that comes from animal bones unless all traces of flesh are first removed from the bones or hides of the animals. Some rabbis speculate that microscopic traces of flesh could render the gelatin non-kosher. Discussions about stricter standards for gelatin are expected to result in tighter oversight.
- Make your own kosher deserts, sauces or gelatin molds by using unflavored gelatin already certified as kosher. Since kosher gelatin is considered a neutral food item, you may combine it with either meat or dairy (see Resources).
- Look for the kosher label when buying gelatin products. This is the only absolute way to ensure your diet remains kosher. Unfortunately, without the determination on the product itself, you may not be kosher if you eat items prepared with gelatin, such as marshmallows, yogurt, fruit juices or gummy-type candy treats. If the ingredients list gelatin but do not list which type, chances are it is not a kosher product.
