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Question
If I'm having a buffet lunch that is meat, am I allowed to serve fish on the same table? I always thought it was ok, but someone recently mentioned to me some type of prohibition regarding mixing meat and fish. What's the story?
Answer
There is a tradition based upon a Talmudic principle of medicine in which
to mixing fish and meat was considered unhealthy. Today that no longer seems
to hold water, and fish and meat are often served at the same place.
Several caveats.
1. This is an issue for your Rabbi, not an information service. Your Rabbi
is the final authority.
2. Very often, a fish dish will be served at a traditional meal and then
the plate and utensils will be removed. Whether for taste purposes or out
of Jewish tradition, I don't know.
3. Fish dishes are often made available at a smorgasbord at the same time
there are meat dishes, although rarely have I seen them on the same table -
but at adjoining tables.
4. Lastly, ask the person who questioned it "why" they had such a thought,
and follow it out from there. Maybe it is their Rabbi! :-)Best Wishes,
Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner
Foundation for Family Education (FFFE)
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