Time for the KA to reform
October 31, 2013 by J-Wire
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I was married many years ago in an Orthodox shul in Sydney NSW.
My Jewish marriage is recognized not only north of Albury-Wodonga and south of Tweed Heads. It is recognized across Australia and around the world.
So why is it then that meat that is deemed Kosher in Victoria by the KA of Vic, it is currently deemed unkosher in NSW, such as that which was served by Amaze in Taste at the JNF event on 30 October.
It’s clear there is need for practical system reform.
A simple suggestion is to form a National KA Roof Body with State KA accreditation to it.
There are several benefits.
Amongst other things, it would:
– open up greater markets for the all kosher butchers being able to ‘export’ beyond State lines;
– streamline administration costs which could be passed on to the consumer – making it more attractive for people to buy Kosher meat;
– keep kosher caterers in business;
– reduce uncertainty amongst observant Jews of what they are eating.
Let’s return to the purpose of what the KA was formed for, namely to uphold kashrut standards so all Jews can feel comfortable about the food they are eating regardless of where the meat received its certificate.
Greg Weiss
Edgecliff NSW Sydney
Greg I applaud your brave comments but would go one step further. Can someone please explain why “basar chutz” ( meat from another place, basically) prohibits the use of Melbourne meat by Sydney caterers, but doesn’t prohibit the SALE of Melbourne meat through Krinkys, Coles, IGA etc, to Sydney consumers? I remember a brave soul who set up shop on Bondi Rd some years ago importing meat from perth before being shut down by the KA on the “basar chutz” premise. Why does it apply sometimes and to some people , but not others???
I agree with Greg. This currently seems like bureaucratic red tape, probably unintentional, but fixable with a national policy to create greater flexibility for the benefit of all.
Couldn’t agree more.
Well said 1000 percent right!
if it’s kosher enough for Victoria there’s no reason why its not kosher enough for NSW, especially when all shochatim that currently work under kosher au are all chabad shochatim and there’s no different rules.