Guide to Popular Kosher Symbols

In interpreting ancient dietary laws and adapting them to modern technology, different rabbis have different views about what exactly passes as kosher. The OU symbol, belonging to the Orthodox Union, is one of the strictest kosher standards on the market today.

The OU has been certifying kosher products for over 80 years. Their first kosher certification went to Heinz. In 1923 Heinz Vegetarian Beans became the first American product to display the OU kosher symbol.

In addition, the OU is the world's largest kosher certifying agency. Some of the famous companies that carry the OU symbol include Coca-Cola, General Mills, Heinz, Kraft Foods, Nabisco Biscuit Co., Pillsbury, Procter & Gamble, and Veryfine Products. The OU certifies over 2300 companies with 4500 plants in 70 countries with a total of over 300,000 labels.

The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations (OU)
11 Broadway, New York, NY 10004
Phone; (212) 613-8241; Fax: (212) 564-9058
Site: www.oukosher.org