Exports of Israeli Foods and Beverages to the United States reached a record $224 million in 2012, reported Kosher Today, which attributed the statistics to the Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute.

While it spelled a 3% increase over 2011, it represented nearly 50% growth since 2008 when exports were valued at only $144 million. Sources told Kosher Today that the dramatic increase in Israeli food exports was due in large measure to a far “more aggressive marketing strategy at all levels by the Israeli manufacturers and their US representatives.”




The Export Institute has stepped up its activities with a more robust presence at the annual Kosherfest and an impressive showing at other shows including the upcoming Fancy Food Show, June 30 to July 2.

Israeli foods have become a significant part of the kosher food aisle with American kosher food manufacturers increasingly importing Israeli products. One reason for the growing popularity of Israeli manufactured products is “vastly improved quality and packaging,” says one major retailer.

While it was hard to find anyone who would offer a prediction for sales in the coming five years, several Israelis believe that it will reach $500 million by 2018.