STAR-K Kosher Certification has provided kosher supervision for over fifty years. The STAR-K, formerly known as the Orthodox Jewish Council of Baltimore/ Vaad Hakashrus, originally served the Jewish community of Baltimore.
As the demand for “kosher” began to explode in the 1970s, the Vaad expanded both its services and staff, under Rabbi Moshe Heinemann’s leadership as Rabbinic Administrator. With the spread of Rabbi Heinemann’s reputation as an expert in the integration of the complexities of food technology with kosher requirements, the STAR-K assumed a more prominent role on the international kashruth scene. STAR-K’s kosher symbol quickly gained wider recognition. Its roster of local companies grew to include food manufacturers and distributors worldwide.
As the STAR-K earned respectability in the world of kosher certification, its Rabbinic Administrators were consulted regularly for authoritative opinions in the complex world of Kashrus. The STAR-K Kashrus Hotline was busy responding to inquiries, disseminating the latest information to consumers, and assisting manufacturers from around the globe in acquiring kosher certification. Its popular and internationally distributed newsletter, Kashrus Kurrents, became a leading voice and primary source of information.
As a leader in the international world of kosher certification, the STAR-K is most proud of its reputation for providing prompt, friendly and professional service to both the kosher consumer and members of the food industry.