Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What does the term "kosher" primarily refer to?

1. Foods that are low in calories

2. Foods that have been prepared without preservatives

3. Foods that comply with religious dietary laws

4. Foods that are gluten-free

The correct answer is: Foods that comply with religious dietary laws

The term "kosher" primarily refers to foods that comply with specific religious dietary laws outlined in Jewish tradition. These laws dictate various aspects of food preparation, including what types of animals can be consumed, how they must be slaughtered, and what foods can be eaten together. For instance, kosher laws prohibit the mixing of meat and dairy products, and certain animals, like pigs and shellfish, are considered non-kosher and cannot be consumed at all. The importance of these laws lies in their religious significance for observant Jews, who adhere to them as part of their faith and practice. In contrast, foods that are low in calories, prepared without preservatives, or gluten-free are related to health-conscious choices or dietary needs but do not pertain to the religious context that defines kosher foods. Thus, the distinction of "kosher" is firmly rooted in dietary laws and practices as per Jewish tradition, making it the correct answer to the question.