Gelatin - Religion and Gelatin Substitutes

Religion and Gelatin Substitutes

Special kinds of gelatin indicate the specific animal that was used for its production. For example, Muslim halal or Jewish kosher customs may require gelatin from sources other than pigs, like cows and/or fish and from animals slaughtered ritually. Muslims do not knowingly and in normal conditions eat foods or use products that contain pork gelatin. There are many companies that specify the source of the gelatin used, and advise consumers via the nutrition information and/or their hotline. Likewise, Hindu customs may require gelatin-alternatives from sources other than animals. Many Hindus are vegetarian. The few Hindus who are not vegetarians don't mind gelatin from all the sources but cow, which is considered sacred. Vegans and strict vegetarians choose not to eat foods containing gelatin made from animals. Romani people are cautious of gelatin products that may have been made from horses, as their culture forbids consuming horses.

Some dietary or religious customs forbid the use of gelatin from certain animal sources, and medical issues may limit or prevent its consumption by certain people.

Alternatives to gelatin include non-animal gel sources such as agar-agar (a seaweed), carrageenan, pectin, konjak, and guar gum.