Newsletter » May 2008

Is It Forbidden? What Not to Serve to Dinner Guests

For the past few issues of the Business of Manners newsletter, we have been exploring etiquette in different cultures around the world. Though we have touched briefly here and there on the etiquette of meals, it is a subject that I am asked about again and again so I felt that food and drink deserved its own discussion.

Many cultures and religions have strict dietary rules. If you are entertaining guests in your home or travelling abroad, a knowledge and respect of these traditions can put others at ease.

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages of all kinds are prohibited for these faith followers:

• Adventists
• Baha'is
• Brethren
• Christian Scientists
• Mormons
• Muslims
• Sikhs

Quakers, Anabaptists (Amish, Mennonites) and Jains do not usually drink alcohol though it is technically not forbidden.

Tea or Coffee

Some religions prohibit tea and coffee because of the caffeine stimulant that provides the drinker with a heightening effect. Mormons are among those who abstain. If someone declines an offer of coffee or tea, do not press the matter.

Meat...And No Meat

Meat is probably the trickiest part of a meal, as dietary restrictions can be varied across religions. However, many religions share a prohibition on pork, so when in doubt, steer clear of it. Chicken is often a safe bet.

Muslims: No pork or blood
Jews: No pork, shellfish, frog, octopus or wild birds
Adventists: No pork or shellfish
Hindus: No beef, preferably no pork
Sikhs: Meat that has not been prepared according to either Jewish or Muslim law

Jains are vegetarians. Many Hindus and Buddhists are also vegetarian though it is not against their religion.

Kosher refers to food that has been prepared according to Jewish law. These laws dictate, for example, that meat and milk must not be cooked or consumed together, and separate utensils must be used for each. The laws also describe how an animal must be killed. Today, it is primarily Orthodox Jews who observe the strict dietary laws. The opposite of kosher is treif. Halal refers to food—usually meat—that has been prepared according to Islamic law. It is an Arabic word that means permissible. The opposite of halal is haraam, which means forbidden. The laws that govern what is kosher and what is halal share many similarities.

When travelling abroad or eating in ethnic restaurants, be aware that many cultures eat meats that are not commonly consumed in North America. For example, dog is frequently served in Korea and China, and horse can often be found on the menu in Central Europe and Iceland. If you are not interested in eating such meats, simply avoid them. Expressing aversion or condemnation is in poor taste.

Upcoming Business of Manners Workshops

International Business Etiquette

When it comes to winning and keeping business, it is the little things that count. Do not compromise your chances of success by making etiquette mistakes that could easily be avoided. Learn the secrets to projecting a powerful image.

Join me for a one-day workshop that will have you feeling poised, polished and ready for any situation. $395 including a 3-course luncheon with wine. Classes are capped at just 5 participants to ensure an intimate learning experience. Register now to reserve your spot. Call 416-971-9754 or send e-mail to adeodata@businessofmanners.com

Saturday, May 24, 9am - 5pm, at the Strathcona Hotel
Thursday, June 19, 10am - 6pm at the Rosewater Supper Club

Kidiquette

Kidiquette, the signature children’s etiquette classes at The Fairmont Royal York, offer basic manners and social skills to children ages 7-12 years. From thank-you notes to party manners, children are taught polite conduct and behavior. Each class includes specialized instruction, high tea, and a certificate of completion at the end of the afternoon. $50 plus GST. Limited spaces are available in the EPIC Private Dining Room on the following Saturdays:

Saturday, June 21, 2:30 pm - 5 pm
Saturday. July 5, 2:30 pm - 5 pm

Advance reservations are required. For more information or to register, call 416-971-9754 or send e-mail to adeodata@businessofmanners.com

Teen Etiquette

Give your young adult the gift of social poise and grace. The teenage years can be so awkward -- but a Business of Manners youth workshop can provide them with the confidence they need to shine. They will learn in a fun, supportive atmosphere, and come away with a new and better understanding of fine social behaviour. Each class includes specialized instruction, a three-course feast, including soup or salad, main entrée and dessert, and a certificate of completion at the end of the afternoon. $85. For more information or to register, call 416-971-9754 or send e-mail to adeodata@businessofmanners.com

Thursday, May 29, 11 am - 5 pm at the Rosewater Supper Club, 19 Toronto Street

Coming Out of Your Shell

Would you like to feel more at ease on stage or during a presentation? This one-day interactive workshop focuses on overcoming fears and developing confidence by exploring relaxation and breathing techniques, and by releasing your natural creativity, humour and hidden passions. Led by ACTRA members Adeodata Czink and Vladimir Bondarenko (professional actor, director, coach and filmmaker). $95. For more information or to register, call 416-971-9754 or send e-mail to adeodata@businessofmanners.com

A Sunday in September - exact date TBA - at 135 George Street South

Quiz

1. Name two religions where alcohol is forbidden.
2. Name two religions where pork is forbidden.
3. Name two countries that serve dog.

(answers at right)