THE JEWS
The wanderings of the Children of Israel since Bible times have made them an International Race. They are known to all countries, and have adapted themselves to different climates and products. Because of these conditions, they have a more varied dietary than any other people. They have acquired the use of Russian, Polish, German, Spanish, and Italian foods, and have adapted them to their dietary laws.
It is essential that the Jewish dietary laws be understood, at least in general, by all who attempt medical or social work among orthodox Jews. From an article by Mrs. Mary L. Schapiro the following account is quoted of those dietary laws "that are now regarded as essential."[1]
I. PROHIBITED FOODS
Prohibition of Animal Foods. Absolute and partial prohibitions:
Unclean animals are absolutely prohibited. Clean animals are all quadrupeds that chew a cud and also divided the hoof. All others are regarded as not clean.
Products of animals that are suffering from some malady or that have died a natural death or had eaten poison are regarded as "terefah," unclean, and may not be used.
All animal foods which are not obtained by killing in the prescribed manner and after adequate inspection by a duly authorized official may not be used.
- ↑ Extract from "Jewish Dietary Problems," by Mary L. Schapiro, in The Journal of Home Economics, Vol. XI, No. 2, February, 1919. One may also consult with interest Miss E. G. Hern's book, "My Mother and I."
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