The two countries with the greatest shares of the world's Jewish population are the United States and Israel. The United States had been a hub of Jewish immigration since the nineteenth century, as Jewish people sought to escape persecution in Europe by emigrating across the Atlantic. The Jewish population in the U.S. is largely congregated in major urban areas, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, with the New York metropolitan area being the city with the second largest Jewish population worldwide, after Tel Aviv, Israel. Israel is the world's only officially Jewish state, having been founded in 1948 following the first Arab-Israeli War. While Jews had been emigrating to the holy lands since the nineteenth century, when they were controlled by the Ottoman Empire, immigration increased rapidly following the establishment of the state of Israel. Jewish communities in Eastern Europe who had survived the Holocaust saw Israel as a haven from persecution, while the state encouraged immigration from Jewish communities in other regions, notably the Middle East & North Africa. Smaller Jewish communities remain in Europe in countries such as France, the UK, and Germany, and in other countries which were hotspots for Jewish migration in the twentieth century, such as Canada and Argentina.

This statistic shows the top 25 countries in the world with the largest number of Jewish population in 2010. In 2010, there were living about 5.7 million Jews in the United States.

The average for 2013 based on 21 countries was 4.3 percent. The highest value was in Israel: 76.2 percent and the lowest value was in Hungary: 0.2 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

The Holocaust was the systematic extermination of Europe's Jewish population in the Second World War, during which time, up to six million Jews were murdered as part of Nazi Germany's "Final Solution to the Jewish Question". In the context of the Second World War, the term "Holocaust" is traditionally used to reference the genocide of Europe's Jews, although this coincided with the Nazi regime's genocide and ethnic cleansing of an additional eleven million people deemed "undesirable" due to their ethnicity, beliefs, disability or sexuality (among others). During the Holocaust, Poland's Jewish population suffered the largest number of fatalities, with approximately three million deaths. Additionally, at least one million Jews were murdered in the Soviet Union, while Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands and Yugoslavia also lost the majority of their respective pre-war Jewish populations. The Holocaust in Poland In the interwar period, Europe's Jewish population was concentrated in the east, with roughly one third living in Poland; this can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when thousands of Jews flocked to Eastern Europe to escape persecution. At the outbreak of the Second World War, it is estimated that there were 3.4 million Jews living in Poland, which was approximately ten percent of the total population. Following the German invasion of Poland, Nazi authorities then segregated Jews in ghettos across most large towns and cities, and expanded their network of concentration camps throughout the country. In the ghettos, civilians were deprived of food, and hundreds of thousands died due to disease and starvation; while prison labor was implemented under extreme conditions in concentration camps to fuel the German war effort. In Poland, six extermination camps were also operational between December 1941 and January 1945, which saw the mass extermination of approximately 2.7 million people over the next three years (including many non-Poles, imported from other regions of Europe). While concentration camps housed prisoners of all backgrounds, extermination camps were purpose-built for the elimination of the Jewish race, and over 90% of their victims were Jewish. The majority of the victims in these extermination camps were executed by poison gas, although disease, starvation and overworking were also common causes of death. In addition to the camps and ghettos, SS death squads (Einsatzgruppen) and local collaborators also committed widespread atrocities across Eastern Europe. While the majority of these atrocities took place in the Balkan, Baltic and Soviet regions, they were still prevalent in Poland (particularly during the liquidation of the ghettos), and the Einsatzgruppen alone are estimated to have killed up to 1.3 million Jews throughout the Holocaust. By early 1945, Soviet forces had largely expelled the German armies from Poland and liberated the concentration and extermination camps; by this time, Poland had lost roughly ninety percent of its pre-war Jewish population, and suffered approximately three million further civilian and military deaths. By 1991, Poland's Jewish population was estimated to be just 15 thousand people, while there were fewer than two thousand Jews recorded as living in Poland in 2018.

The Jewish population of Europe decreased dramatically during the 20th century, as millions of Jews were killed during the Holocaust of the Second World War, while millions of others emigrated to escape persecution (notably to Israel and the U.S.). Some estimates suggest that the total number of Jews in Europe in 1933 was approximately 9.5 million people, with the majority of these living in Eastern Europe. Jews were a minority in most countries, however they still made up a significant portion of the population in countries such as Hungary, Poland and Romania. Following the war however, the Jewish populations in these countries dropped drastically, and by the end of the century they made up just 0.1 percent or less in several countries.

The world's Jewish population has had a complex and tumultuous history over the past millennia, regularly dealing with persecution, pogroms, and even genocide. The legacy of expulsion and persecution of Jews, including bans on land ownership, meant that Jewish communities disproportionately lived in urban areas, working as artisans or traders, and often lived in their own settlements separate to the rest of the urban population. This separation contributed to the impression that events such as pandemics, famines, or economic shocks did not affect Jews as much as other populations, and such factors came to form the basis of the mistrust and stereotypes of wealth (characterized as greed) that have made up anti-Semitic rhetoric for centuries. Development since the Middle Ages The concentration of Jewish populations across the world has shifted across different centuries. In the Middle Ages, the largest Jewish populations were found in Palestine and the wider Levant region, with other sizeable populations in present-day France, Italy, and Spain. Later, however, the Jewish disapora became increasingly concentrated in Eastern Europe after waves of pogroms in the west saw Jewish communities move eastward. Poland in particular was often considered a refuge for Jews from the late-Middle Ages until the 18th century, when it was then partitioned between Austria, Prussia, and Russia, and persecution increased. Push factors such as major pogroms in the Russian Empire in the 19th century and growing oppression in the west during the interwar period then saw many Jews migrate to the United States in search of opportunity.

In 1995, Israel had a Jewish population of approximately 4.5 million people, of whom approximately 1.75 million were born abroad. Over one million of these immigrants were born in Europe, with over 650,000 of these born in the former Soviet Union. Despite Poland having the largest Jewish population in the world in the pre-WWII years, the number of Polish Jewish migrants and descendents in Israel was relatively small in 1995 when compared to the USSR due to the impact of the Holocaust.

Outside of Europe, Morocco had the largest number of Jewish immigrants and descendents in Israel by 1995. Morocco had the largest Jewish population in the Muslim world when Israel was founded in 1948, with over 250,000 people. Many Moroccan Jews sought to emigrate to Israel at this time, but often faced resistance from authorities and local populations who believed the Jews would join in the fight against the Arab forces seeking to establish a Muslim state in Palestine. The government of Morocco then officially prohibited emigration to Israel after gaining independence from France in 1956, however this policy was reversed in 1961 whereby the Moroccan government began facilitating Jewish emigration to Israel in return for payments from Jewish organizations in the U.S. and Israel. By the 1970s, Morocco's Jewish population had fallen to less than 15 percent of its size in 1948.

Kosher Meat Market Outlook

As per our latest research, the global kosher meat market size reached USD 31.2 billion in 2024, and the market is projected to grow at a notable CAGR of 4.7% over the forecast period. By 2033, the global kosher meat market is expected to attain a value of USD 47.1 billion. This robust growth trajectory is primarily driven by the rising demand for high-quality, ethically produced meat products, combined with the increasing awareness and adoption of kosher dietary standards among both Jewish and non-Jewish populations worldwide.

The growth of the kosher meat market is underpinned by several critical factors. Firstly, there is a significant surge in consumer preference for food safety, traceability, and ethical production practices. Kosher meat, which adheres to strict religious and hygienic guidelines, is perceived as a safer and more trustworthy option compared to conventional meat products. This perception is not limited to the Jewish community; rather, it has expanded to include health-conscious consumers globally who associate kosher certification with higher standards of quality and food safety. Additionally, the rising incidence of foodborne illnesses and contamination scandals in the broader meat industry have further accelerated the shift towards kosher-certified products, as consumers seek reassurance regarding the origins and handling of their food.

Another major driver for the kosher meat market is the globalization of food culture and the proliferation of specialty diets. As international travel, migration, and cultural exchange increase, so does the exposure to and acceptance of kosher dietary laws. This has led to a broader customer base for kosher meat, including Muslims who find kosher slaughter methods compatible with halal requirements, as well as vegetarians occasionally seeking ethically produced meat. Furthermore, the growing number of kosher restaurants, delis, and food service providers has created additional demand, particularly in urban centers and areas with large Jewish populations. This trend is further supported by the expansion of kosher certification agencies, which have made it easier for producers and retailers to access and serve these niche markets.

Technological advancements and innovation in supply chain management have also played a pivotal role in the expansion of the kosher meat market. Enhanced logistics, cold chain infrastructure, and digital traceability solutions have made it possible to maintain the integrity of kosher certification from slaughterhouse to consumer. This has enabled kosher meat producers to reach wider markets, including remote regions and countries with limited local production. The rise of e-commerce and online retail platforms has further facilitated access to kosher meat products, allowing consumers to conveniently purchase certified products regardless of their location. This combination of technological progress and evolving consumer preferences is expected to sustain the market’s momentum well into the next decade.

From a regional perspective, North America remains the dominant market for kosher meat, accounting for the largest share due to its sizable Jewish population, established regulatory frameworks, and high consumer awareness. However, Europe and the Asia Pacific region are rapidly emerging as significant growth areas, driven by increasing multiculturalism, rising disposable incomes, and the proliferation of specialty food retailers. The Middle East & Africa region, while comparatively smaller in terms of market size, is witnessing steady growth due to religious and cultural factors. Latin America is also showing promising potential, particularly in countries with expanding Jewish communities and growing demand for specialty meat products. Overall, the kosher meat market is poised for sustained growth, fueled by a combination of demographic, cultural, and technological trends.

Product Type Analysis

The kosher meat market is segmented by product type into beef, poultry, lamb

Turkey: People practicing Judaism as percent of the population: The latest value from 2013 is 0.4 percent, unchanged from 0.4 percent in 2012. In comparison, the world average is 4.3 percent, based on data from 21 countries. Historically, the average for Turkey from 1960 to 2013 is 0.4 percent. The minimum value, 0.4 percent, was reached in 1960 while the maximum of 0.4 percent was recorded in 1960.

Socio-demographic characteristics of Jewish and Arab mothers (n = 693).

Palau: People practicing Judaism as percent of the population: The latest value from is percent, unavailable from percent in . In comparison, the world average is 0.0 percent, based on data from countries. Historically, the average for Palau from to is percent. The minimum value, percent, was reached in while the maximum of percent was recorded in .

Kosher Certification Services Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global kosher certification services market size reached USD 1.24 billion in 2024, with a robust CAGR of 7.1% expected through the forecast period. By 2033, the market is projected to attain a value of USD 2.32 billion, driven by increasing demand for kosher-certified products across multiple sectors and rising awareness of food safety and quality standards. The growth of the market is significantly fueled by globalization of the food industry, heightened consumer awareness regarding dietary restrictions, and expanding international trade of food and non-food products requiring kosher certification.

A primary driver for the kosher certification services market is the rapid globalization of food supply chains. As food products cross international borders more frequently, manufacturers and exporters are under increasing pressure to ensure their goods meet diverse regulatory and cultural standards. Kosher certification has become a key differentiator, not only for Jewish consumers but also for those seeking assurances of food quality, safety, and hygiene. The certification process, which involves rigorous inspection and compliance with religious dietary laws, is perceived as a mark of superior quality by a broad spectrum of consumers. This has prompted many multinational food and beverage companies to invest in kosher certification, thereby expanding the market's scope and depth.

Another critical growth factor is the rising consumer demand for transparency and authenticity in product labeling. Modern consumers are more health-conscious and are seeking products that align with their ethical, religious, and dietary preferences. Kosher-certified products are increasingly popular among not just Jewish communities but also Muslim, vegetarian, and vegan consumers due to the perceived strictness of kosher standards. This trend is particularly pronounced in North America and Europe, where food safety scandals have heightened consumer skepticism, making kosher certification a valuable trust signal. Additionally, regulatory bodies in various countries are implementing stricter food labeling requirements, further bolstering the need for credible certification services.

Technological advancements and digitalization are also contributing to the expansion of the kosher certification services market. Certification agencies are leveraging digital platforms to streamline the application, inspection, and monitoring processes, making it easier for manufacturers and service providers to obtain and maintain certification. The integration of blockchain and traceability technologies is enhancing transparency and trust in the certification process, which is crucial for both consumers and regulatory authorities. Furthermore, the proliferation of e-commerce and cross-border trade is amplifying the demand for kosher certification, as online consumers increasingly seek assurance about the authenticity and safety of products purchased from international sellers.

The demand for Kosher Meat is a significant factor contributing to the growth of the kosher certification services market. As consumers become more conscious of the sources and quality of their meat products, kosher meat is increasingly seen as a benchmark for quality and ethical standards. The rigorous processes involved in kosher slaughtering and processing ensure that the meat adheres to strict dietary laws, which appeal to a broad range of consumers beyond the Jewish community. This includes health-conscious individuals and those seeking assurance of humane treatment of animals. As a result, the market for kosher meat is expanding, with more retailers and food service providers incorporating kosher-certified meat into their offerings to meet diverse consumer demands and enhance their product portfolios.

Regionally, North America dominates the kosher certification services market due to its large Jewish population, advanced food processing industry, and stringent regulatory environment. However, Asia Pacific is emerging as a high-growth region, propelled by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness of international food standards. Europe also presents significant opportunities, particularly in countries with substantial Jewish and Muslim populations, as well as a strong emphasis on fo

Palestine: People practicing Judaism as percent of the population: The latest value from is percent, unavailable from percent in . In comparison, the world average is 0.0 percent, based on data from countries. Historically, the average for Palestine from to is percent. The minimum value, percent, was reached in while the maximum of percent was recorded in .

Bolivia: People practicing Judaism as percent of the population: The latest value from is percent, unavailable from percent in . In comparison, the world average is 0.0 percent, based on data from countries. Historically, the average for Bolivia from to is percent. The minimum value, percent, was reached in while the maximum of percent was recorded in .

Iran: People practicing Judaism as percent of the population: The latest value from is percent, unavailable from percent in . In comparison, the world average is 0.0 percent, based on data from countries. Historically, the average for Iran from to is percent. The minimum value, percent, was reached in while the maximum of percent was recorded in .

Repeated measures ANCOVAs (measurement time × political bloc) of all measurements with covariates (age, family income, education level, and level of religiosity).

Kosher Restaurant Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global kosher restaurant market size reached USD 19.7 billion in 2024, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period, reaching USD 33.9 billion by 2033. This robust growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for kosher-certified food, rising awareness about food safety and hygiene, and the expanding global Jewish population. The market is also witnessing growing interest from non-Jewish consumers who perceive kosher food as healthier and more stringently regulated, further fueling market expansion.

One of the primary growth factors for the kosher restaurant market is the rising consumer awareness regarding food quality, safety, and dietary requirements. The kosher certification process is known for its strict adherence to food preparation and handling guidelines, which appeals not only to Jewish consumers but also to a broader demographic seeking transparency and assurance in their food choices. This trend is particularly evident among health-conscious individuals and those with specific dietary needs such as lactose intolerance or allergies, as kosher standards often provide an added layer of scrutiny. The increasing number of foodborne illness outbreaks globally has also led consumers to seek out establishments with recognized certifications, further boosting the popularity of kosher restaurants.

Another significant driver is the globalization and diversification of cuisines offered by kosher restaurants. Traditionally, kosher dining was associated primarily with Eastern European and Middle Eastern fare; however, the modern kosher restaurant landscape now includes a wide array of international cuisines, from Mediterranean to American and beyond. This diversification not only attracts a broader customer base but also encourages repeat visits from existing clientele seeking variety. The rise of food delivery platforms and digital ordering has further enabled kosher restaurants to reach new customers and markets, reducing geographical barriers and increasing accessibility for those seeking kosher options.

The evolution of dining formats within the kosher restaurant market is also propelling growth. The emergence of fine dining kosher establishments, quick service restaurants, cafés, and bakeries has expanded the market’s appeal to various consumer segments, including families, individuals, and corporate clients. This segmentation allows kosher restaurants to cater to different dining occasions, from casual meals to high-end celebrations and corporate events. Additionally, the growing prevalence of kosher catering services for weddings, conferences, and community events is creating new revenue streams and solidifying the market’s position in the global foodservice industry.

In recent years, the market for Kosher Ready Meals has seen a notable uptick, driven by the convenience it offers to consumers seeking kosher-certified options without the need for dining out. These meals cater to busy individuals and families who prioritize dietary adherence and quality, yet require the flexibility of having ready-to-eat options at home or on the go. The rise of Kosher Ready Meals is not only a reflection of changing consumer lifestyles but also an indication of the growing demand for diverse kosher offerings that extend beyond traditional restaurant settings. This trend is particularly evident in urban areas where time constraints and fast-paced living create a significant market for convenient meal solutions.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to dominate the kosher restaurant market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed by Europe and the Middle East & Africa. The United States, in particular, boasts a well-established kosher dining culture, with cities like New York and Los Angeles leading in the number of kosher-certified establishments. Europe is witnessing steady growth, especially in countries with significant Jewish populations such as France and the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a promising market, driven by increasing tourism and the proliferation of international cuisine. The Middle East remains a key region due to its cultural and religious ties to kosher dietary laws, with countries like Israel at the forefront of innovation in kosher dining ex

Kosher Beverages Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Kosher Beverages market size stood at USD 7.4 billion in 2024, reflecting robust demand and expanding consumer bases worldwide. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 12.2 billion by 2033. This impressive growth trajectory is driven by increasing health awareness, rising demand for certified products, and the expanding adoption of Kosher standards beyond traditional Jewish communities. As per our latest research, the market is witnessing a significant uptick in product variety and distribution channels, further fueling its expansion.

One of the primary growth factors for the Kosher Beverages market is the rising consumer preference for clean-label and certified products. With growing concerns over food safety, authenticity, and transparency, consumers are increasingly seeking products that adhere to stringent certification standards. Kosher certification, which guarantees compliance with specific dietary laws and high standards of cleanliness and quality, has gained traction among not only Jewish consumers but also health-conscious individuals and those with dietary restrictions such as lactose intolerance or allergies. This broader appeal is pushing beverage manufacturers to obtain Kosher certifications, thereby expanding their market reach and driving overall growth.

Another significant driver is the globalization and premiumization of food and beverage consumption. As international cuisines and diverse dietary practices gain popularity, Kosher-certified beverages are finding acceptance across various cultural and religious demographics. The proliferation of modern retail formats, such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online platforms, has made Kosher beverages more accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, the increasing focus on product innovation—such as plant-based, organic, and functional beverages—has further diversified the Kosher beverage portfolio, attracting a younger, health-oriented consumer base and boosting market growth.

The foodservice and hospitality sectors are also contributing to the expanding Kosher Beverages market. Hotels, airlines, restaurants, and institutional caterers are increasingly incorporating Kosher options into their menus to cater to a diverse clientele and enhance their brand image. This trend is particularly strong in regions with significant Jewish populations and in areas where tourism and international travel are prominent. The ability to offer Kosher-certified beverages not only broadens the customer base but also serves as a mark of quality assurance, further solidifying the market's upward trajectory.

From a regional perspective, North America dominates the Kosher Beverages market, accounting for the largest share due to its substantial Jewish population and well-established certification infrastructure. Europe follows closely, with growing demand in countries like France, the UK, and Germany. Asia Pacific is emerging as a high-growth region, fueled by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the expanding influence of Western dietary trends. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady growth, supported by both local production and import of Kosher-certified beverages. Regional dynamics are influenced by cultural, religious, and economic factors, shaping the competitive landscape and growth opportunities in the global market.

Product Type Analysis

The Kosher Beverages market is segmented by product type into carbonated beverages, juices, bottled water, dairy beverages, non-dairy beverages, and others. Among these, carbonated beverages hold a significant share, driven by their popularity among a broad spectrum of consumers and the widespread availability of Kosher-certified sodas and sparkling drinks. Leading global beverage brands have responded to the demand for Kosher certification by ensuring their flagship products meet these standards, thus capturing a loyal customer base. The inclusion of specialty flavors, reduced sugar options, and innovative packaging has further propelled the growth of Kosher-certified carbonated beverages.

Juices represent another crucial segment, with increasing demand for natural, organic, and functional juices that align with Kosher dietary laws. The appeal of Kosher-c

Jews were the dominant religious group in the Israel-Palestine region at the beginning of the first millennia CE, and are the dominant religious group there today, however, there was a period of almost 2,000 years where most of the world's Jews were displaced from their spiritual homeland. Antiquity to the 20th century Jewish hegemony in the region began changing after a series of revolts against Roman rule led to mass expulsions and emigration. Roman control saw severe persecution of Jewish and Christian populations, but this changed when the Byzantine Empire adopted Christianity as its official religion in the 4th century. Christianity then dominated until the 7th century, when the Rashidun Caliphate (the first to succeed Muhammad) took control of the Levant. Control of region split between Christians and Muslims intermittently between the 11th and 13th centuries during the Crusades, although the population remained overwhelmingly Muslim. Zionism until today Through the Paris Peace Conference, the British took control of Palestine in 1920. The Jewish population began growing through the Zionist Movement after the 1880s, which sought to establish a Jewish state in Palestine. Rising anti-Semitism in Europe accelerated this in the interwar period, and in the aftermath of the Holocaust, many European Jews chose to leave the continent. The United Nations tried facilitating the foundation of separate Jewish and Arab states, yet neither side was willing to concede territory, leading to a civil war and a joint invasion from seven Arab states. Yet the Jews maintained control of their territory and took large parts of the proposed Arab territory, forming the Jewish-majority state of Israel in 1948, and acheiving a ceasefire the following year. Over 750,000 Palestinians were displaced as a result of this conflict, while most Jews from the Arab eventually fled to Israel. Since this time, Israel has become one of the richest and advanced countries in the world, however, Palestine has been under Israeli military occupation since the 1960s and there are large disparities in living standards between the two regions.

Kosher-Style Program Implementation Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Kosher-Style Program Implementation market was valued at $1.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $2.8 billion by 2033, expanding at a robust CAGR of 9.7% during the forecast period of 2025–2033. One of the major factors fueling the growth of the global kosher-style program implementation market is the increasing consumer demand for transparency, food safety, and adherence to dietary regulations, especially among health-conscious and culturally diverse populations. This trend is further propelled by globalization, the rise of international food trade, and the need for businesses to differentiate themselves in competitive markets by offering certified kosher-style products and services.

Regional Outlook

North America currently holds the largest share of the global kosher-style program implementation market, accounting for approximately 38% of the total market value. This dominance is attributed to a mature regulatory environment, a high concentration of food and beverage manufacturers, and a significant Jewish population driving demand for kosher-certified products. The region’s well-established infrastructure for food safety and quality auditing, coupled with advanced technological adoption in food processing and supply chain management, further supports market growth. Additionally, the presence of leading kosher certification agencies and a strong culture of compliance with food labeling standards have made North America a benchmark for kosher-style program implementation, encouraging continuous investment and innovation.

The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to be the fastest-growing market, with a projected CAGR of 12.3% between 2025 and 2033. This rapid expansion is driven by increasing awareness of kosher-style dietary benefits, rising disposable incomes, and the proliferation of international cuisine among urban populations in countries such as China, India, and Australia. Multinational food companies are investing heavily in kosher certification to tap into export markets and cater to the growing demand from both local and expatriate communities. Government initiatives to improve food safety standards and the expansion of hospitality and tourism sectors are further catalyzing the adoption of kosher-style programs across the region, creating lucrative opportunities for service providers.

Emerging economies in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing gradual yet promising adoption of kosher-style program implementation. Challenges in these regions often stem from limited awareness, fragmented supply chains, and the need for localized certification processes that align with both religious and cultural norms. However, increasing participation in global food trade, the growth of organized retail, and supportive policy frameworks are gradually enhancing market penetration. Local businesses are beginning to recognize the value of kosher-style certification as a means to access premium export markets and build consumer trust, though infrastructural and educational gaps remain hurdles to widespread adoption.

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