Kosher certification symbols, also known as hechsherim, are logos or labels affixed to food products to indicate that they meet the standards of kosher dietary laws. Various certifying organizations grant these symbols, and they enjoy wide recognition within the Jewish community and beyond. Each symbol represents a specific certifying authority, and consumers rely on these symbols to make informed choices about the kosher status of a product. Below are explanations of some common kosher certification symbols along with their images:
- OU (Orthodox Union):
- Explanation: People widely recognize and respect the OU as one of the most prominent kosher certification symbols.Products bearing the OU symbol meet the strict standards set by the Orthodox Union.
- OK (Organized Kashrut Laboratories):
- Explanation: TOrganized Kashrut Laboratories, an international kosher certification agency, grants the OK symbol.. It signifies that the product adheres to kosher dietary laws.
- Star-K:
- Explanation: The Star-K is a prominent kosher certification agency. Products with the Star-K symbol are certified as kosher and comply with their strict standards.
- Kof-K:
- Explanation: The Kof-K Kosher Supervision, a widely recognized certification agency, grants the Kof-K symbol. Products with this symbol meet the organization’s kosher standards.
- CRC (Chicago Rabbinical Council):
- Explanation: The CRC symbol is issued by the Chicago Rabbinical Council. Products bearing this symbol are certified as kosher by this authoritative organization.
- MK (Montreal Kosher):
- Explanation: Montreal Kosher, a certifying agency known for ensuring that products comply with kosher dietary laws, associates the MK symbol.
Consumers can familiarize themselves with these symbols to make informed choices when purchasing kosher products. It’s important to note that there are many other kosher certification symbols, each representing a different certifying authority with its own set of standards.
