DATA SUBMISSION GUIDE
Requirements for Data Submission – Guidelines
Please use the following guidelines to familiarize yourself with the specific data submission requirements at KCJ. This will help to ensure an easy and efficient set-up of your kosher certification program.
This brief overview of the data submission process is presented for new clients submitting data for the first time.
data evaluation
For any product to be certified, KCJ requires a comprehensive product evaluation in order to determine that the product meets kosher requirements. By submitting complete formulae for all products—including a complete listing of all the specific ingredients used in each product – we are able to create and maintain a complete ingredient and product list for your company.
Data Evaluation entails a review of the following specific components.
1. Individual Formula
Each submitted formula must include a detailed and specific list of each and every ingredient in the produced product. This includes any internal Formulae, i.e. a mix or sub-formula made in your facility (not purchased as such) as well as any processing aids. We do not require any amounts or percentages.
2. Ingredient Naming Made Simple
In many facilities, ingredients are known by more than one name:
Manufacturer’s name (on the ingredient label)
Internal name used by plant staff or R&D
For example, what the manufacturer calls corn syrup might be referred to internally as sweetener. To avoid confusion, both names should be submitted.
Our database supports multiple names per ingredient, ensuring flexibility and accuracy. If your company uses raw material codes (RMCs), we recommend submitting those as well, for stronger tracking and easier management of your kosher program.
Manufacturer info
When submitting the name of a supplier or manufacturer, please include the name as it is printed on the label of the ingredient, which corresponds to the name that appears on its kosher certificate.
Multiple sources
If you have multiple sources for a specific ingredient, each supplier needs to be reviewed and approved.
3. Clear Ingredient Identification with KCJ
Today, many kosher agencies operate worldwide, but standards can differ. At KCJ, we are committed to upholding the highest level of kosher supervision. Our trusted KCJ symbol is your customer’s guarantee of quality and compliance. For this reason, we may occasionally need to reject certificates that do not meet our standards. When that happens, we’ll provide a list of acceptable alternatives from our database.
When submitting a kosher certificate for approval, please:
Use our spreadsheet template.
List the ingredient name as it appears on the certificate, along with the certifying agency.
Attach a clear, current copy of the certificate.
Highlight or mark the exact item being submitted (especially when multiple items appear on the same certificate).
If you use raw material codes (RMCs), include your code instead of the arrow.
Indicate if a kosher letter is unavailable, so we can advise further.
Confirm whether the certificate covers the product format you receive—packaged or bulk (tankers, railcars, ISO tanks, etc.).
4. Finished Products List & Labels
To ensure accuracy, all finished product labels must match the kosher certificates issued to your company. Therefore, KCJ requires a complete list of finished products and sample labels (if available). If labels are not ready, you may submit just the product list first. Labels must be reviewed and pre-approved once available.
Guidelines for Using the KCJ Logo:
- Place the KCJ logo near the product name in a visible position.
- The logo may be resized proportionally but cannot be altered in any other way.
- It should be as large as possible on the label (generally above 10 mm wide). Smaller sizes are permitted if legible. For very small products, a KCJ-approved “small variant” may be requested.
- Acceptable colors: black, blue, red, gold, or silver.
- Any text referring to the KCJ logo must be submitted for pre-approval.
- Printing the logo on unauthorized stickers or stamps is a trademark violation. If a corrective sticker is required (e.g., due to misprints), it must include the product name, company name, and location, be permanently affixed, and approved by your KCJ Account Specialist before printing.
For guidance on the correct symbol for retail or industrial products, please consult your KCJ Account Specialist. This step helps prevent errors, recalls, and consumer confusion.
5. sample certificate
What Can Be Certified by KCJ?
KCJ conducts thorough conformity assessments of foods, products, processes, and services to ensure adherence to Jewish dietary laws. Its certification services are available to all applicants—including food establishments, hotels, caterers, and manufacturers—who wish to produce, serve, or sell products that are officially kosher certified.
