Dear Rabbi Simon,
Do you have an opinion for the Kopi Lowak coffee? There is an argument online – the OU shares both opinion but they say ask your local Rabbinical authority. In terms if it is a product of a non kosher animal or it can be considered a product of animal digestion?
Many thanks,
Daniel
Dear Daniel,
An intriguing question, of particular interest to extravagant coffee officianados.
Strictly speaking there are grounds to permit it since the coffee is not produced by the civit but only excreted by it. I would be concerned about the production method (oppressive to the civit) and the evident corruption rampant in the trade. Also the wastefulness of the cost and evenבל תשקצו issues. Nevertheless IMO if someone were to offer you a cup of coffee brewed from kopi luwac you would be entitled to enjoy it.
Rabbi Rashi Simon