The global kosher food market is a multi-billion-dollar sector with projections for sustained growth: it was estimated at around US$21.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach nearly US$28.5 billion by 2031. Meanwhile, the consulting firm IMARC projects a value of US$29.6 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 3%.
In Latin America, this market is also experiencing notable growth of nearly 5% annually, led by economies such as Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. This expansion reflects increasing opportunities for producers of foods eligible for kosher certification, including ruminant meats, poultry, fish, fruits, vegetables, grains, and eggs.
Benefits of the Kosher Seal for Brands and Consumers
Kosher certification ensures meticulous oversight and adherence to high-quality standards, building trust not only among Jewish consumers but also among a growing number of non-Jewish consumers. Studies show that 65% of consumers choose kosher products for their perceived quality and health benefits.
This makes the kosher seal a powerful differentiator for brands, strengthening product reputation across multiple market segments and enhancing sales potential in diverse regions.
Opportunities for Latin American Exporters in Israel
Israel is a key market for kosher food, where 90% of products on supermarket shelves are certified kosher. The kosher food trade in Israel is valued at approximately US$13 billion, with annual imports reaching close to US$2 billion. These figures highlight how having kosher certification facilitates access to critical sales channels in the country.
Mercosur countries, especially Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay, supply 85% of the kosher meat imported by Israel, underlining their leadership in this niche market with strong potential for expansion.
The United States is another major market for kosher-certified foods. Valued at around US$3 billion, it includes approximately 1,800 certified companies and tens of thousands of kosher products available to consumers. Moreover, over 35 million non-Jewish individuals purchase kosher products, significantly expanding the potential market.
For Latin American exporters, kosher certification is the key to accessing this diverse and growing segment, allowing them to increase exports and enhance their image of quality in one of the world’s most competitive markets.
