In a respect, there is similarity between quality control certificates and Kosher Certificates. Both require a comprehensive inspection of ingredients; comparison of the ingredients in the product to those on the packaging; inspection and supervision of the production line; and a seal of approval. The difference is the purpose: A Kosher Certificate affirms that the item for sale is strictly kosher.

Kosher Certification requires strict adherence to Jewish dietary laws. However any factory or establishment that abides by these laws and also possesses the above certificates will receive their Kosher Certificate quickly and easily.

The answer varies. Some products are simple from a kosher standpoint, containing only one or several ingredients. In this case, an annual or semi-annual inspection will likely suffice in order to verify the kosher status of the product. In contrast, products that contain numerous ingredients or that are complex from a halachic standpoint require the presence of a kashrus supervisor throughout the entire production and manufacturing process.

Israeli law stipulates that any food item imported into Israel bearing a kosher stamp by any rabbi or organization must likewise receive authorization from the Chief Rabbinate. This authorization is not the responsibility of the factory owner, but is obtained by the Israeli importer. Obviously, any ingredient sold only in Europe and/or America does not require kosher certification by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel.

Millions of people around the world—both Jews and non-Jews alike—purchase products bearing the seal of an established kosher organization only. The market for kosher products has skyrocketed in the past few years and continues rising at a drastic rate.

As in every market, there is competition among kashrus organizations as well. Badatz Maor Hakashrus is a reputed European kashrus organization that is familiar with the territory; the needs of the kosher consumer; and the potential kosher issues that could arise that require practical solutions. Badatz Maor Hakashrus has defined clear parameters regarding the costs of issuing kosher certification, which we will gladly explain to our clients.

Each factory/establishment pays either an annual fee or fee per production line to the Vaad Hakashrus in lieu of its Kosher Certificate and the Kosher Stamp on its kosher products. Under no circumstance does the factory employ the kosher supervisor; his salary is disbursed directly by the Vaad Hakashrus.

The vast majority of raw kosher ingredients can be obtained easily in Europe. A representative of the Badatz will gladly facilitate you in obtaining raw ingredients that meet the kosher requirements of the organization.

Usually, kosher ingredients are not substantially more expensive. There are many factories throughout Europe that manufacture raw ingredients that are completely kosher, and these products can be purchased at the standard price.

The one and only stipulation is that you cooperate fully and honestly with our representative, implementing any request and instruction that regards kosher products both when he is in and out of the factory. Aside from this, we have no other requirements. Kosher supervision hours coincide with standard working hours, excluding extenuating circumstances when the organization will determine to carry out a surprise inspection at an unusual hour.

Absolute confidentiality is #1 on our Code. We are aware and appreciate the significance of professional secrecy, and we pride ourselves on integrity. Notwithstanding, we will gladly sign any Confidentiality Statement as per your request.

Absolutely. The on-site Badatz representative will receive guidance from the factory manager regarding dress and conduct and act accordingly. We expect all supervisors to adhere strictly to the company guidelines as long as they do not conflict with Jewish/kosher laws.

In general, when a factory manager is on site, there is no need for our representative to relay direct orders to company employees. The exception is when urgent or immediate action must be taken in order to prevent a flaw on the production line that could negatively impact the kashrus of the product. In such a circumstance, the kosher supervisor will act at his discretion. Hence, all factory workers should be cognizant of the need to cooperate with the kosher supervisor when necessary.

The above is coordinated by mutual consent over the phone or by e-mail. For technical reasons, a Vaad Hakashrus representative may occasionally visit independently, in which case he may require supplementary assistance and support.

Badatz Maor Hakashrus endeavors to send the same supervisor each time and ensure that he speaks the local language and is familiar with company policy. However, occasionally, it may choose to send a different representative.

Occasionally, production must still for 24 hours, but this is usually carried out over weekends or holidays. There are also times when the machines themselves must be koshered. The Vaad Hakashrus will spell out all policies and requirements directly to the management.

Food factories, food ingredient factories, and all substances that come in contact with food require kosher certification to be considered kosher. Usually, completely natural ingredients that are not mixed with any non-kosher substance will receive kosher certification easily.

Usually, a factory/establishment receives a General Certificate that applies to all of its products. However in some cases, when special kosher supervision is required for specific products, separate certificates may be issued. Similar, factories that require separate certificates for importers or certificates in one or more than one language can receive these, as well.

Theoretically, yes . There are numerous guidelines that relate to this important question that are now within the scope of this forum. Badatz Maor Hakashrus will gladly provide a clear, comprehensive explanation to the factory administration.