Originally Posted by
etch5895
I hope this does not come off as an ignorant question, but being neither Jewish nor Muslim, I don't know the answer.
Do either methods (Halal and Kosher) specify the killing of the animal about to be eaten must be done in a humane, pain-free manner (or as pain-free as possible)?
This has long been a point of criticism from animal-rights groups. I know PETA and the Green Party in Germany have sought to have the slaughter of animals for halal or kosher meat outlawed on various occasions as they consider it inhumane. They have not been successful in doing so.
Personally, I am neutral on the issue, but it is a very contentious point between religious Jews and (more commonly, at least in Germany) religious Muslims and those who believe strongly in animal rights.