Is Chopped Pork and Ham Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed meat product is kosher, the source of the meat is the most critical factor. In the case of Chopped Pork and Ham, the verdict is clear from the very first ingredient listed.

The product contains Pork (89%). In Judaism, the pig is an unclean animal and is strictly prohibited for consumption. Because the vast majority of this product is pork, it is inherently non-kosher. No amount of processing can change this status.

Additionally, the product contains Ham (2%). Ham is meat from the pig's leg, reinforcing the non-kosher status. While the percentage is low, its presence confirms the meat source.

Finally, we must look at the processing aids. The product uses Stabiliser: Trisodium Diphosphate and Preservative: Sodium Nitrite. While these additives are chemically derived and generally considered acceptable from a Kashrut perspective, they are irrelevant here because the base meat product is already forbidden.

Nutritional Value

While the kosher status is the primary focus, it is worth looking at the nutritional profile of this product. It is a high-calorie, high-fat processed meat. With pork making up 89% of the product, the saturated fat content is likely significant.

The inclusion of Sugar and Flavourings suggests a cured meat profile, often found in deli slices. For those monitoring sodium intake, the combination of Salt, Sodium Nitrite, and Trisodium Diphosphate contributes to a high sodium count, which is typical for cured meats but not ideal for heart health.