The Cost of Kashrut (2007)
WHEREAS, the most basic laws of kashrut are commandments in the Torah, and Conservative Judaism requires the observance of the laws of kashrut;
WHEREAS, on the basis of numerous interviews, discussions and conversations, many Jews believe that the concept of kashrut has been diminished, tainted and/or diluted by various people and groups for their own benefit;
WHEREAS, many Jews have elected not to follow all of the basic laws, extensions, clarifying rulings and emendations of kashrut for reasons, including but not limited to, their opinions and beliefs that:
- Kosher meat is simply too expensive for many elderly Jews, who are on fixed incomes, to purchase.
- Kosher meat is simply too expensive for many young people, who are just beginning their families and/or professional lives, to purchase.
- Kosher meat costs up to four times the price of other similar cuts, even though the actual “real costs” are not much greater than non-kosher meat.
- The price of kosher meat is controlled by a small group of butchers and/or people who “certify” kosher meat. These providers and/or certifiers are taking advantage of Jews who are trying to follow the Torah’s commandments, knowing that there is a “captive” audience.
- Some kosher butchers and/or food purveyors engage in unfair business practices, including but not limited to price gouging, price fixing, and substitution of non-kosher meat.
- Keeping kosher is no longer relevant to them.
While we cannot confirm the veracity of these claims, the cynicism regarding ritual observance in general and kashrut in particular is growing, and many Jews believe that the business aspects are undermining the spiritual value of kashrut.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the leadership of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism empower, fund and authorize an investigative committee, commission, or task force to ascertain the truth, if any, of the foregoing premises.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this kashrut committee, commission or task force, make suggestions and recommendations as to how the observance of kashrut might better be implemented, encouraged and taught to the Conservative community.
