What is Kosher Milk?

What Is Kosher Milk?

To be considered kosher, milk must meet specific requirements related to its source, production, and handling.

Key Requirements for Kosher Milk

Kosher Milk

Source of the Milk

Must come from a kosher animal (e.g., cows, goats, sheep).
Milk from non-kosher animals (e.g., pigs, camels, horses) is forbidden.

No Mixing with Non-Kosher Milk

Even a small amount of milk from a non-kosher animal renders the entire batch non-kosher.
Some kosher certifications require supervision (mashgiach) to ensure no cross-contamination.

Chalav Yisrael (Jewish-Supervised Milk)

Strict kosher observers require milk to be supervised by a Jew from milking to packaging (Chalav Yisrael).
Many kosher certifications (like the OU) accept government-regulated milk (Chalav Stam) as kosher in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, provided no non-kosher additives are present.

No Non-Kosher Additives

Flavored or processed milk (e.g., chocolate milk) must avoid non-kosher ingredients (like certain emulsifiers or gelatin).

A pitcher, bottle, and glass of milk alongside a bowl of cottage cheese rest on a cloth, all proudly labeled "Kosher Milk.

Types of Kosher Milk Certifications

Certification	Description
Chalav Yisrael	Milk supervised by a Jew at every stage (strictest standard).
Chalav Stam	Regular milk under government oversight (accepted by many kosher agencies).
OU-D, Kof-K-D	Kosher dairy certification (no meat derivatives or non-kosher additives).

Common Questions About Kosher Milk

Is all cow’s milk kosher?

Only if it comes from a healthy cow and has no non-kosher additives. Stricter kosher observers may reject unsupervised milk.

Why is almond or soy milk labeled "pareve" (neutral)?

Because it is plant-based rather than made from an animal, it does not conform to the Torah's commandment prohibiting meat and milk together.

What is “Cholov Yisroel”?

It’s milk that a Jew has supervised from milking to packaging. Some follow this stricter standard.

Are flavored milks and milk-based drinks kosher?

Only if they have a kosher symbol. Extra ingredients must also be kosher.

Bottom Line

Kosher milk must come from a kosher animal, avoid contamination, and meet supervision standards. Many Jews accept Chalav Stam (standard milk), although stricter observers only drink Chalav Yisrael. Always check for a reliable kosher certification (e.g., OU, Star-K) on the label.