8 Food Items That Are Avoided During Hanukkah

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Credits: Unsplash

1. Foods Cooked In Oil Other Than Olive Oil

Hanukkah commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the ancient Temple. To honour this, many traditional Hanukkah foods are cooked in olive oil. Other oils might be avoided during this holiday.

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2. Leavened Bread (Chametz)

As with other Jewish holidays, leavened bread, or chametz, might be avoided during Hanukkah. Instead, unleavened bread like matzo could be preferred.

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3. Pork And Shellfish

Observant Jews typically avoid pork and shellfish as they are considered non-kosher. This remains consistent during Hanukkah.

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4. Dairy & Meat Combined In A Meal

Observant Jews may avoid combining dairy and meat in the same meal. They might wait a designated period between consuming dairy and meat products.

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5. Non-Kosher Certified Foods

Observant Jews adhere to kosher dietary laws, so foods that lack kosher certification might be avoided during Hanukkah.

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6. Sour Or Fermented Foods

Some traditions suggest avoiding sour or fermented foods during Hanukkah to maintain the focus on the holiday's sweet and celebratory aspects.

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7. Foods Cooked Ahead of Time

Some prefer to cook fresh meals each day of Hanukkah to honour the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days.

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8. Bread Products Made From Five Grains

Some communities avoid bread or products made from wheat, barley, spelt, rye, and oats to honour the holiday's traditions.

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These food practices may vary among different Jewish communities and individuals based on their level of observance and family customs.