Animal Abusers Hide Behind the Kosher Label

Re “Cattle Video Stirs Kosher Meat Debate,” Dec. 28: Shame on those who would hide behind the kosher label while abusing animals. They violate the spirit, if not the letter, of Jewish law and ethics.

The suffering of these animals during slaughter is sickening. Death is neither quick nor merciful. If this is kosher, then we have a big problem.

Rabbi Barry L. Schwartz

Cherry Hill, N.J.

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The undercover video showing slaughterhouse workers ripping cows’ esophagi and trachea out of their bodies is one of the most upsetting films I’ve ever watched. As a Jew, I’m deeply saddened that these animals suffered so horrifically under the guise of “kosher guidelines.”

Though most of us are outraged by these disgusting abuses, we have a moral obligation to do more than simply be upset. We should recognize that slaughterhouses are only in business because we support them by purchasing meat, eggs and dairy products.

If we really want to show compassion to animals, we can leave animal products out of our diet and choose vegetarian foods instead.

Josh Tetrick

Radnor, Pa.