Kosher Seal

• The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations is the protector and the authorizing organization of the famous "Circle U" symbol.
• Commonly known as "Circle U," the circle graphically represents the letter O for "Orthodox," and the U inside stands for "Union."
• The H.J. Heinz Company and the United Federation of Orthodox Rabbis collaborated in 1923 to design the "Circle U" symbol.
• Heinz Vegetarian Beans was the first national product to display the "Circle U" symbol on its label.
• The "Circle U" symbol is reserved for food products prepared and packaged or served according to the strict standards of the kosher dietary laws under the Orthodox Union's supervision.
• Since its founding over 95 years ago, the Union has served as the central coordinating agency for American and Canadian Orthodox Jewish congregations.
• The Orthodox Union is the central address and national representative for more than 1,000 synagogues.
• One of the most significant and enduring programs of the Union is the "Circle U" Kashruth Certification Service.
• The "Circle U" symbol is the world's preeminent kashruth insignia, functioning in 48 countries and certifying over 80,000 brand names, such as Heinz Vegetarian Beans, and other well-known brand names including Morton Salt, Evian bottled water and Wheaties cereal.
• The "Circle U" kashruth program dedicates enormous resources, including a staff of over 800 rabbinic coordinators, kashruth supervisors, food chemists and support personnel in certifying kosher brand names, hotels, restaurants and companies.
• The Orthodox Union is a not-for-profit educational, outreach and social service organization which serves the North American Jewish community.