The question of whether all Hershey products are kosher is a common one, and the simple answer is no. While The Hershey Company does have a strong partnership with the Orthodox Union (OU) and certifies a large portion of its products, it is not an all-encompassing certification for the entire brand. For consumers observing Jewish dietary laws, verifying each product individually by checking the packaging is the most reliable method. The OU symbol, which is displayed on the product packaging, is the definitive indicator of its kosher status.
The Hershey Company and Kosher Certification
To become kosher certified, a product's facilities, equipment, and ingredients must be reviewed and approved by a kosher certifying agency. The Hershey Company has partnered with the Orthodox Union (OU) to certify its products. This process ensures that the product meets the strict requirements of Jewish dietary law. The OU has designated certified Hershey's items with their unique symbol, often accompanied by a letter to denote its category, such as dairy.
Understanding Kosher Symbols on Hershey's Products
The OU symbols on Hershey's products provide critical information about their kosher status, especially concerning dairy. Here's a breakdown of what to look for:
- OU: This symbol alone indicates a product is Pareve, meaning it is neutral and contains neither meat nor dairy. This is less common for Hershey's chocolates but may apply to certain candies or baking ingredients.
- OU-D: This is the most common symbol found on Hershey's chocolate products. The 'D' stands for Dairy and signifies that the product contains dairy ingredients. This is important for those who follow specific rules regarding the consumption of meat and dairy together.
- OU-Dairy Equipment: In some cases, a product may be certified as Pareve but manufactured on equipment that also processes dairy. This will sometimes be noted on the packaging.
Not All Hershey Products are Certified
One of the main reasons not all Hershey's products are kosher is the brand's diverse and expansive product line. The company produces everything from classic chocolate bars to baking mixes and ready-to-eat puddings. While classic items are often certified, others may not be. For example, certain Hershey's puddings have been noted as not being OU certified. Similarly, products made by subsidiaries or in different facilities may have varying certifications or none at all.
What can affect kosher status?
- Ingredient changes: A change in suppliers or ingredients can affect a product's kosher status. While Hershey's works to maintain certification, reformulations can sometimes alter it temporarily.
- Production lines: Some products may be manufactured on lines that also process non-kosher items, which can render them non-kosher through cross-contamination unless proper kosher protocols are observed.
- Limited edition products: Seasonal or limited-edition items might not undergo the same certification process as core products.
Checking the Label is Your Responsibility
For any observant consumer, the final step is always checking the label. The OU symbol is the most definitive proof of a product's kosher status. A quick visual check can confirm if the product you are purchasing is certified. This is especially important for holidays, like Passover, when specific certifications are required.
Kosher vs. Non-Kosher Hershey's Products: A Comparison
| Product | Typical Kosher Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate Bar | OU-D | Classic bar, contains dairy. |
| REESE'S Peanut Butter Cups | OU-D | Most variations are certified dairy. |
| HERSHEY'S Semi-Sweet Baking Chips | OU-D | Many baking chips are OU-D certified. |
| HERSHEY'S Natural Cocoa Powder | OU (Pareve) | Generally Pareve, but always check for the symbol. |
| HERSHEY'S Puddings (Pre-made) | Not Certified (or different certifier) | Some pudding varieties are not OU certified. |
| 5th AVENUE Bar | OU-D | Certified dairy snack bar. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while many Hershey products are reliably kosher certified by the Orthodox Union, the idea that all products under the Hershey's brand are kosher is a misconception. The company’s vast and varied product portfolio means that kosher status can change from one item to another. The ultimate responsibility lies with the consumer to check each individual product label for the proper kosher certification symbol, such as the OU or OU-D. For the most up-to-date and specific product listings, the official OU website is an authoritative source. Being diligent about checking labels ensures that you can enjoy your favorite Hershey's treats while adhering to Jewish dietary laws.
Check OU Kosher for specific product certification information
