Gerber Kashrut is the practice by which many observant Jews eat, rooted in rules of the Torah and the teachings of later rabbis. The rules are primarily for products that involve animals and determine which can be eaten, or eaten together.

Ahmed Halal means “permissible” in English, so the term extends beyond food to guide Muslims’ actions so that they align with Islamic teachings. These teachings relate to things such as maintaining our health, modesty, good character, and belief in the oneness of Allah. 

What makes food permissible in your tradition?

Gerber It depends on who is making the food, but you need to make sure that only kosher food is made or brought into the kitchen, which involves a particular way of slaughtering animals (that’s a specific job), and, when it comes to formal dining like at the Ratty, a mashgiach (the supervisor of the kashrut status). 

Ahmed Specifically for halal meat, the animal must have lived a healthy life in good conditions and eaten a natural diet. The slaughter itself must minimize distress to the animal—for example, a sharp blade is used to ensure a swift cut. We also can’t eat something that contains or has been contaminated by something that is forbidden to us like blood, alcohol, or pork. 

What’s the best thing you can say about your faith’s station at the Ratty? What’s your favorite meal or food?

Gerber The kosher stations (there are two—meat and dairy) always have a range of options and sides and are pretty well stocked in meals, sides, soups, and desserts! They provide an easier way of getting kosher meat in Providence (which is not always guaranteed). I love the turkey stuffed peppers and the salmon.

Ahmed The halal station offers a variety of cuisine, which is great. I haven’t been eating at the dining halls as often this year, but I do love the Thai rice bowl with chicken and BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches. 

What would you improve?

Gerber There is a heavy focus on bread and pasta, which, while great, can be harder for someone like me, as I am also gluten-free, or people looking for leaner options.

Ahmed They can be more mindful of how they use alcohol. Meal options have occasionally had white wine as an ingredient. Admittedly, some argue that because the wine gets cooked off, the food is halal, while others say that the presence of alcohol in the first place makes the meal haram (forbidden).

How do you say “bon appétit!” in your faith or culture?

Gerber B’tai Avon/B’tayavon. L’chaim means “To life,” so you might say that with drinks.

Ahmed We say Bismillah (“In the name of Allah”) before eating or drinking. After finishing a meal, we say Alhamdulillah (“Praise be to God”).