International aisle in a big supermarket: rice, lentils, spices, sauces, noodles.

Ethnic markets: Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi stores, Middle Eastern, Asian (H Mart, 99 Ranch and many local shops), Latin American, African, Caribbean, Eastern European. Search your maps app for "Indian grocery", "halal market", "African market" and so on.

Halal butchers and kosher butchers: often near mosques and synagogues. Ask your community for the trusted ones.

Online stores: many ship dry goods and spices across the US.

Community groups: diaspora groups on WhatsApp and Facebook share where to buy specific items.

Kosher: look for symbols on the package from certifying groups, such as a U inside a circle or a K. "Pareve" means no meat or dairy.

Halal: look for a halal certification logo on the package. In restaurants, ask: "Is your meat halal? Which certifier?"

Gelatin, enzymes, and "natural flavors" can come from animals. Check the ingredients or contact the brand.

Most supermarkets have plant-based milk, tofu, beans and meat-free products.

On menus, look for "V" (vegetarian) or "VG" (vegan). Ask: "Is this made with chicken stock or fish sauce?" Soups, beans and rice can contain meat stock.

Many restaurants change a dish if you ask: "Can I get this without meat?"

"Does this contain pork or alcohol?"

"Is this cooked in the same oil as the meat?"

"I have a peanut allergy. Is this safe for me?"

Assuming "chicken" in a restaurant is halal. Most is not, unless the restaurant says so.

Buying spices in tiny supermarket jars. Ethnic markets sell larger bags for much less.

Bringing meat or fresh food from home in your luggage. Most is not allowed (see the customs guide).