By Bryan Freehling
I began observing kashrut not when I converted to Reform Judaism thirteen years ago, but when I became a vegetarian almost three years ago. Although I considered observing kashrut upon becoming a Jew, my life partner of fifteen years who had kept kosher until he was 21, was not too amiable to that notion. However, after the passing of our beloved canine companion, Bella, both of us chose to become vegetarian.

Our ethical and moral vegetarian odyssey has done much for our spiritual and physical well-being, and it has made us more compassionate Jews. Additionally, our vegetarian lifestyle, since one chooses what to eat, has also helped us become more informed consumers. The challenges and obstacles faced by individuals and families who maintain a kosher lifestyle are often not as discernible to the naked eye as one might think.

A month ago, I learned to my horror that most fabric softeners and dryer sheets contain animal fat, also known as tallow. Although I am not certain, I sincerely doubt that these animals have been slaughtered in a kosher manner. And even if these animals were slaughtered in a kosher manner, I question whether observant Jews are even aware of this disturbing fact. I wonder how many observant Jews have washed and dried milkh plates with dish towels laundered with such fabric softeners. Many ingredients found in detergents and softeners can remain indefinitely in fabrics and garments even after several washings.

Unfortunately, it has wrongly been incumbent upon consumers outside of the mainstream American society to investigate and police these matters. All consumers have the right to know all the ingredients of the products which they purchase. Failure to disclose this information on labels should result in stiff fines for the manufacturers, suppliers, and vendors.

Bryan Freehling is a member of Martha's Vineyard Hebrew Center.  

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