Trefah refers to foods that are considered unclean or forbidden in Jewish dietary laws. These laws, known as kashrut, outline what is permissible for consumption. Trefah includes certain animals, such as pigs and shellfish, as well as improperly slaughtered meat.
In addition to specific animals, trefah can also refer to any food that has been contaminated or mixed with forbidden items. Observant Jews avoid trefah to maintain their spiritual and physical well-being, adhering to the guidelines set forth in the Torah. Understanding trefah helps individuals appreciate the significance of dietary practices in Judaism.