CAKEID.DIET

Is Pork shu mai Kosher?

No, Pork shu mai is absolutely not Kosher. While the name might suggest a standard dumpling, the ingredient list reveals multiple violations of Kosher dietary laws. The most obvious issue is the pork itself, but the inclusion of oyster extract and sake makes this product strictly off-limits for those keeping Kosher.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I analyze ingredient lists to determine dietary compliance, and this product fails the Kosher test on several fundamental levels. The primary flag is, of course, PORK. In Jewish dietary laws (Kashrut), the pig is an unclean animal and is explicitly forbidden for consumption. This single ingredient immediately disqualifies the product.

Beyond the pork, we must look at the flavor enhancers. The OYSTER FLAVORED SAUCE contains oyster extractive. Shellfish without fins and scales (like oysters) are non-Kosher. Furthermore, the SAKE listed is a rice wine. For wine to be considered Kosher, it must be produced under strict rabbinical supervision. Sake is generally not produced this way, making it a non-Kosher alcohol source.

Finally, the SOY SAUCE and WHEAT FLOUR present potential issues regarding Passover (if the wheat is not certified Kosher for Passover), but for general year-round Kosher standards, the wheat and soy are usually acceptable *if* certified. However, in this context, the surrounding non-Kosher ingredients render the certification moot. The combination of meat (pork), shellfish (oyster), and non-Kosher wine (sake) creates a 'perfect storm' of non-compliance.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:
pork

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this Pork Shu Mai is a dense source of calories and fat. A standard serving contains a significant amount of sodium (likely over 400mg per serving) due to the soy sauce, pork base, and salt. The fat content is driven by the pork and pork fat, contributing to a rich mouthfeel but also increasing the saturated fat levels.

Regarding carbohydrates, the WHEAT FLOUR and POTATO STARCH provide the wrapper structure. There is also added SUGAR and Oyster Sauce, which adds hidden sugars. While it provides protein from the pork, the high fat and sodium content make it a less-than-ideal choice for those monitoring heart health or blood pressure. It fits a 'comfort food' profile rather than a 'health food' profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Pork shu mai contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains gluten from wheat flour. It does not appear to contain dairy ingredients, but the wheat makes it unsuitable for a gluten-free diet.

Is Pork shu mai good for weight loss?

No, it is calorie-dense and high in fat and sodium, which is not conducive to weight loss.

Where can I buy Pork shu mai?

It is widely available in the frozen section of major supermarkets like Walmart, Kroger, and Asian specialty markets.

Is Pork shu mai safe for kids?

It is generally safe for kids to eat, provided they do not have allergies to wheat, soy, or eggs. However, it is high in sodium, so moderation is recommended.
Pork shu mai

Pork shu mai

Kosher Analysis

The Verdict
Not Kosher
Find Alternative

We recommend searching for certified Kosher alternatives.

Pro Tip

Always double-check the label. Manufacturers change ingredients frequently without notice!