Kashrut is a set of Jewish dietary laws that dictate what foods are permissible for consumption. These laws are derived from the Torah, the central reference of the religious Judaic tradition. Foods that meet these requirements are termed "kosher." Key principles include the prohibition of certain animals, such as pigs and shellfish, and the separation of meat and dairy products. To be considered kosher, animals must be slaughtered in a specific manner, known as shechita, and certain parts of the animal, like blood and certain fats, must be removed. Additionally, utensils and cooking surfaces used for meat and dairy must be kept separate to maintain their kosher status.