Having tapped the local beer market for all it is worth, German brewers have begun making kosher beer for Jews and a halaal, alcohol-free version for Muslims in a search for new clients.<br />
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In the land of Berliner Kindl, Beck’s and Loewenbrau, the kosher version stands out with the name "Simcha" and a Star of David on its blue and gold label. "The name means ‘joy’ in Hebrew," said Ludwig Hoernlein, a brewer in Hartmannsdorf.<br />
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A certificate on the brewery wall, signed by Rabbi Yitshak Ehrenberg from Berlin, attests that the beer is produced in accordance with Judaic dietary rules but warns that it is not suitable for Passover.<br />
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He explained that "Simcha", a white pilsner with its alcohol content of 4.9 percent, may not come into contact with a drop of beer produced the traditional German way. A 30-ton silo at the brewery is reserved exclusively for kosher grains. The barley and hops are grown organically in Bavaria, the yeast used to ferment it is made at the brewery and the water comes from local springs.<br />
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In accordance with Jewish food rules, the barley may not have been grown during the Passover period and pregnant or menstruating women may not be involved in the production.<br />
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Said Hoernlein, "It proves that beer brings people together."<br />
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Read the full story at <a href="http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5jwJ4EpIhSQY9oxBa8I2FIORtR5CA"><strong>AFP News</strong></a>
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