Keeping Kosher in the U.S.A.

Abstract

This paper, though relatively lengthy, gives what is really a brief overview of the Jewish dietary laws, otherwise known as the laws of kashrus or the laws of kashruth. The complexity and religious nature of these laws demonstrate that it is impractical for a secular government to enforce these laws. After the summary of the laws, the paper deals with instances where secular governments actually do involve themselves with kashrus law. The discussion makes clear that the courts have not yet stated their final word regarding the tug-of-war that exists between the Establishment Clause and the protection of free exercise of religion.