Is Unicornfish kosher?

Unicornfish is kosher according to Jewish dietary law.

Does Unicornfish have fins and scales?

Yes. Unicornfish has both fins and removable scales, which is the requirement set in Leviticus 11:9-12 and Deuteronomy 14:9-10 for a fish to be considered kosher.

Can I eat Unicornfish sushi or sashimi?

If Unicornfish is prepared in a kosher kitchen with kosher utensils and ingredients, Unicornfish sushi or sashimi can be kosher. Always verify the kosher certification of the restaurant or preparation source.

Where can I find more information about whether Unicornfish is kosher?

KosherFish.co references the Orthodox Union (OU) and Chabad lists of kosher and non-kosher fish. For specific halachic questions, consult your local Orthodox rabbi.

Unicornfish

Kosher

Has fins and scales

Fins Yes

Scales Yes

Description

Unicornfish are popular with spearfishers and may be cooked whole on the grill. In Hawaii they are known as kala.

Unicornfishes (genus Naso) live on Indo-Pacific coral reefs from Africa east to Hawaii. They feed and shelter around the reef at a range of depths.

Also known as

Kala

Warnings & Kosher Issues

Kosher. Unicornfish are ray-finned fish with fins and scales.
They are in the surgeonfish family and carry sharp, blade-like spines on the tail base that can cause a serious cut when handled.
Some unicornfish (such as Naso lituratus and N. unicornis) have been linked to ciguatera poisoning in tropical reef areas.