US: Kosher food sales on the increase

Sales of kosher foods through grocery stores in the US have risen to over $200 bln in 2008 from about $150 bln in 2003, showing yearly growth rate twice that of the overall food market, according to Packaged Facts’ new study, “Market Trend: Kosher-and Halal-Certified Foods in the US.”

“US consumers who are not followers of Judaism or Islam are largely unaware of the specific qualities that distinguish kosher and halal from conventional foods. However, factors related to safety, quality and ‘truth in labeling’ should prompt these mainstream consumers to seek out kosher/halal more often, although marketers and third-party certifiers must make a greater effort to educate consumers before that can happen,” says Tatjana Meerman, Packaged Facts publisher.

Large customer potential

According toMeerman, the potential customer base for such products is large and includes the large segment of the American population who are concerned about the safety of the food supply, as well as the increasing number of people on gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian or other special diets who want clearer food labelling.

Consumers which have been identified by Packaged Facts as “foodies” are shown to be a positive prospect for kosher/halal marketers.