Kosher poultry is meat from domesticated birds that have been raised and slaughtered according to Jewish laws regarding kosher foods. These laws determine how the meat is handled from the time the animal is raised to the time it is slaughtered and packaged. It requires the humane and ethical treatment of the animal as well as a very specific method of slaughtering it. Several organizations provide certifications that allow consumers to identify and purchase poultry that is truly kosher.
The process of creating kosher poultry begins with raising the animals. In order for poultry to be considered kosher, the animals must have been raised in a way that is humane and healthy for them. They must be kept in very sanitary conditions and allowed to be free range. It is also important that no animals with physical abnormalities be slaughtered and used as kosher poultry. The birds are supposed to be carefully inspected before slaughter to make sure that any of them that do have abnormalities are not used.
When it comes time for the animals to be slaughtered, the process must be carried out in a way that is as quick and painless for the animals as possible. It is always important for the birds that are used for kosher poultry to be treated with respect and care. The actual slaughtering must be carried out by a trained shochet who ensures that the slaughter is done correctly. The meat must then be soaked in water for 30 minutes, salted for one hour, and then rinsed three times. Without undergoing this specific process, the meat cannot be considered kosher.
Chicken, turkey, and duck can all be considered kosher poultry when handled correctly, but these products may not always be easy for consumers to find. There are some kosher manufacturers who process and package kosher meats to sell in chain grocery stores, however these meats are more likely to be found in specialty grocery stores. Certifications are available through Jewish organizations to ensure that companies adhere to kosher standards and to provide a good way for consumers to easily identify products that follow their beliefs.
Traditional Jewish communities often have a kosher butcher who specializes in preparing kosher meats and who is a reliable source for kosher poultry. These businesses may be difficult to locate, but do still exist in many communities. Restaurants serving kosher foods, including poultry, can also be difficult to track down but do exist and provide a convenient place for people to obtain prepared kosher dishes.