Kosher locusts are types of orthopterans deemed permissible for consumption under the laws of kashrut (Jewish dietary law). While the consumption of most insects is generally forbidden, Leviticus excepts four categories of flying insects (for that reason, the term "kosher locust" is somewhat of a misnomer). However, the identity of those species is in dispute. Before their emigration to Israel in the mid-20th century, the Jewish communities of Yemen and parts of northern Africa, ate certain species which they preserved a tradition to be kosher, and they continue to do so occasionally to this day.

The general rule regarding flying insects is as follows:

However, an exception is made for four categories of flying insects:

The identity of the four permitted types is difficult to ascertain. The terms used in the Bible refer to color and broad morphological generalities shared by many Middle-Eastern species. Using primarily color to identify insect species is a notoriously unreliable approach. Insects that come to adulthood will have slightly different colors based on season, diet, and prevailing climate.

The Mishnah provides criteria by which these species may be identified:

Unlike the Bible (which permits certain named types of insect), this Mishnah lists physical characteristics – which are met by many species of grasshoppers, and every species of locust. However, Rabbi Yose's opinion is more restrictive: like the Bible, it requires a specific type name, not just physical characteristics.

The Talmud elaborates that the four categories mentioned in the biblical text contain subcategories: the phrase "the arbeh after its kinds" implies at least two kinds under the category of arbeh, and similarly for the other three types. The Talmud translates the four biblical names with then-contemporary Aramaic, and lists the additional kinds as follows:

Rabbi Yose's additional restriction is required by some rishonim. However, opinions differ on how it is to be understood. According to Tur, there must be a specific tradition that a particular insect is within the category of hagav. However, according to Maimonides, all that is needed is for the species to be referred to as a hagav or a translation of this term, such as "locust". Despite the general adherence of Yemenite Jews to the rulings of Maimonides, they were more stringent than Maimonides' opinion that merely recognizing a locust's features was sufficient to permit it. Rather, they ate only those locusts which they possessed a tradition of eating. It is unnecessary to have a "personal tradition" in order to eat locusts – one who travels to a place where the people do have a tradition may eat locusts there.