Thomas Robinson, age 14, of Potterville, Mich., for his question:

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF KOSHER?

Kosher is a Hebrew word meaning ritually correct. It is used to describe food that is considered clean and wholesome according to Jewish ritual. Food that is forbidden to Orthodox Jews is treyfah, meaning unfit.

Preparation of foods according to the rules of the Talmud is called koshering. Many of the rules are based simply on health considerations.

Orthodox Jews may eat only the flesh of certain animals killed in a special way. The slaughtering must be done without pain to the beast and with speed and sharp instruments. All traces of blood must be removed by washing, soaking and salting.

Milk or milk products may not be eaten with meat.