JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your question concerning gelatin.

It is our understanding that various gelatin products available on the market today, including JELL-O and Knox, may be derived from parts of unclean animals (Lev. 11:1-8; Deut. 14:7-8). Among the letters about gelatin which we have on file is one from General Foods Kitchens. In part, they wrote, "The gelatin used in JELL-O gelatin is extracted from the skins of food animals -- beef, calf and pork."

There are, however, plain gelatins available which their makers claim are derived totally from beef. Two such products are Emes Gelatin and Three Star calf gelatin. Also, there are some gelatins available which are made from all vegetable material. We suggest checking at your local health food stores for any of these products.

We hope you will let us know whenever we may assist you with your study of the Bible. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT