Is That Kosher?

Think kosher-a traditional way of preparing food according tocleanliness guidelines set forth by Jewish dietary laws. Accordingto IntegratedMarketing & Communications Inc. (IMC), the publisher oftrade magazine KOSHER Today, consumers who specifically lookfor kosher products spent $6.65 billion in 2002, and that figure isexpected to rise to $9.5 billion by 2005.

Entrepreneurs must be well-versed in kosher guidelines, but tobe successful, you don't have to be Jewish-just kosher-savvy.Menachem Lubinsky, president and CEO of IMC, says, "The[perception] that kosher food is better and healthier" hasincreased its mainstream popularity. He sees kosher moving evenmore into the mainstream, with room for many diverse products. AtIMC's recent Kosherfest trade show in New York City, companiesdisplayed everything kosher-snacks, oils and marinades, frozenfoods, sauces, organic foods, fat-free foods, gluten-free foods,baked goods, wines and spirits, Asian food, Spanish food, teas andcheeses. Even unusual items like kosher pet food and kosher mintsare growing. Check out these kosher entrepreneurs we foundthriving.