This week, Kosherfest returned after a one-year hiatus and, while there were fewer exhibitors than in years past, the exhibition floor was packed with visitors and industry professionals.
Representatives from across the kosher food universe participated – from established companies to kosher startups. Some were looking for distribution of their products, while others had services on display.
The OU Kosher team spent Tuesday and Wednesday visiting with customers, as many of the products featured at Kosherfest were under OU Kosher supervision. They also discussed OU certification with companies seeking a globally-recognized kosher certification symbol.
And then there were David Elliot’s emotional support chickens. Perhaps a bit unexpected, but a fun and welcome addition nonetheless.
Here are some of the exhibitors’ and their products on display at the show:
David Elliot Poultry has been under OU certification for over 50 years, offered emotional support chickens. The important benefit here is that you can easily take one on a plane.
Kosher startup Zina’s Fruit Crisps. A family business with daughter mother and son the founder.
Phyllis Koegel
As the Marketing Director for OU Kosher, the world’s leading Kosher certifying agency, Phyllis is responsible for the marketing and new business development by assisting food producers worldwide obtain OU Kosher certification for their products. Phyllis developed an early passion for consumer behavior and marketing. She joined the Orthodox Union in 2006 after serving as Marketing Manager for Sabra Hummus.
At Sabra Hummus, she helped launch the hummus category to the American market. Hummus became a staple in American households and grew to a billion-dollar food category. Sabra Hummus was purchased by Pepsico in 2008 and has grown to over $1 billion in annual sales.
Prior to joining Sabra, Phyllis was involved in the development and success of the International Kosherfest Trade show. As Show Director from 1989 – 2002, she worked with thousands of Kosher food manufacturers and oversaw the strategic planning and execution of the show. Phyllis was born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y. She obtained an MBA in Marketing from Pace University in 1988. She now lives in Woodmere, N.Y. and has three children and sixteen grandchildren.
