Is Kraft Mac & Cheese Kosher? Explained (Updated)

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

Kraft Mac and Cheese holds a special place as a go-to comfort food in countless American households, including my own. Regardless of age, this product is treasured as a staple in the daily diet of many individuals.

But the question remains: is Kraft Mac and Cheese kosher? 

Let’s see the answer to this question in detail.

Kraft Mac & Cheese: Is It Kosher?

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese is not considered kosher by the strictest standards. The product is not made with kosher ingredients and is not produced in a kosher facility.

In addition, the product contains dairy ingredients, such as milk and cheese, which means that it cannot be eaten with meat according to kosher dietary laws.

“Discover a comforting delight that aligns with kosher traditions, as Kraft Mac and Cheese undergoes scrutiny to ensure its compliance, allowing you to savor every cheesy bite with confidence and faith.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

However, some people who keep kosher may choose to eat Kraft Macaroni and Cheese as a dairy dish, as long as it is not served with meat and is eaten at a meal where all of the other foods are also kosher.

It is ultimately up to individuals and their own interpretation of kosher dietary laws to decide whether or not they want to include Kraft Macaroni and Cheese in their diet.

Read: Can I Use Oat Milk In Mac And Cheese?

What Is Kosher?

Kosher [1] is a type of food preparation and eating guided by Jewish dietary laws. It requires food to be prepared and eaten in accordance with the laws, which are outlined in the Torah. 

This includes the types of animals and their slaughter, the ingredients used, and how the food is cooked and served. Foods considered kosher include certain types of fish, dairy, grains, and combinations. 

Many people enjoy kosher food because of its health benefits and because it is a way to connect to Jewish culture and heritage.

Read: How Long Do Kraft Singles Last?

Is Kraft Cheese Kosher For Passover?

Kraft cheese is not considered to be kosher for Passover [2]. The company uses rennet, an animal-derived enzyme, in its cheese-making process. This enzyme is not allowed in food products certified as kosher for Passover. 

Read: Is Pasta Kosher For Passover?

Additionally, Kraft cheese is not produced in a dedicated facility that is free of chametz, which is also a requirement for kosher for Passover certification. Therefore, it is not recommended to serve Kraft cheese during Passover.

“I’m very loyal in a relationship. Any relationship. When I go out with my mom, I don’t look at other moms and go, “I wonder what her macaroni and cheese tastes like.”

– Garry Shandling, American Actor

Read: Is Kraft Mac And Cheese Halal?

Why Can’t Jews Have Cheese & Meat Together?

The prohibition of eating meat and cheese together is a cornerstone of Jewish dietary law, known as Kashrut. This law is based on the Torah, which states that one may not “cook a kid in its mother’s milk.” 

This commandment has been interpreted by Jewish law to mean that one should not mix any dairy products with meat, including cheese. This means that even a cheese pizza would not be considered kosher. 

This prohibition is based on the idea that the two types of food should not be combined, as they are considered too similar in their composition.

Read: Is Tofu Kosher For Passover?

How Do You Know If Cheese Is Kosher?

When it comes to knowing if cheese is kosher, the most important factor is whether or not it is made with animal rennet.

Animal rennet, an enzyme derived from the lining of a calf’s stomach, is not considered kosher and must be avoided. 

If a cheese is certified as kosher, it will clearly state on the packaging that it is made with microbial rennet, a vegetarian-friendly enzyme derived from mold.

Additionally, kosher cheese will be made with kosher ingredients and produced in a facility that adheres to traditional kosher laws. 

If you’re still unsure, you should check with a rabbi or another qualified authority for advice.

Read: Are Potatoes Kosher For Passover?

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Kraft Mac and Cheese is not considered to be kosher. 

It contains several ingredients that are not considered to be kosher, including dairy, making it unsuitable for those who observe the dietary laws of Kashrut. 

Always double-check food labels to ensure that your food is in accordance with your dietary restrictions.

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-kosher
2. https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/passover