Going global: could halal be the next kosher?

Rabbi Mendy Feigelstock lives in Vancouver, Canada, but his work has taken him to Thailand several times already this year. He runs the certification department for Kosher Check, which helps companies worldwide ensure food and drink products conform to Jewish dietary rules.

These rules keep meat and dairy separate and include special requirements for the slaughter of animals. Products with kosher labels indicate whether they contain animal products, so appeal not only to those avoiding certain foods for religious reasons but also to people with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians, vegans, and anyone with food allergies.

The number of inquiries to Kosher Check from major food-exporting countries in Southeast Asia – such as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia – had increased, Feigelstock said.