Mindful Beauty: Kosher, Cruelty-Free, Vs. Vegan Products
by Amra Lear, L.E., L.M.T.
Mindful practice of skin care has risen within the 21st century, causing mindfulness among consumers as to where and how the ingredients are derived in products. Which ingredients the consumer selects are solely based on their preferences or moral principles as an individual. This article discusses the ethical production between kosher, cruelty-free, and vegan products.
KOSHER
Kosher is defined as “fit” or “proper,” “a concept associated with cleanliness, purity, and extra supervision.”1 Observed by the Jewish community to consume products with the utmost integrity, “Kosher observance is a historical, communal, and personal commitment, and a connection to the will of the Creator. To those who observe kosher, its concepts [are] also reminders of lessons in kindness and sensitivity to animals, attention to detail in everyday matters, self-control, and thinking before acting.”1
Since diet often plays in a role in skin health, kosher skin care products have naturally emerged. According to the Seal of the Kosher Trust, for “products such as body wash, massage oils, and beauty creams which are not intended for medical treatment, kosher certification is recommended. In addition to the overall inspection, the process may involve inspection of animal-derived ingredients (such as animal glycerin, bovine stearates, and more).”2 Many individuals and possible clients may live a kosher lifestyle, so it is important to have product options available.
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References
“What Is Kosher.” The Seal of Kosher Trust, August 13, 2018. https://sealk.org/what-is-kosher/#:~:text=Kosher%20is%20a%20process%20of,the%20will%20of%20the%20Creator.
“Kosher Questions .” The Seal of Kosher Trust, July 2, 2021. https://sealk.org/kosher-questions/#:~:text=In%20general%2C%20skin%20care%20products,treatment%2C%20kosher%20certification%20is%20recommended.
“All about Peta.” PETA, January 31, 2022. https://www.peta.org/about-peta/learn-about-peta/.
“History.” The Vegan Society. Accessed June 21, 2023. https://www.vegansociety.com/about-us/history.