Associated Kashrus Organizations (AKO)AKO
Chicago, IL, USA
🛒 Look for this symbol on packaging
Recognized endorsed by 1 major authority
Umbrella/membership organization of kosher-certifying agencies worldwide (not itself a product certifier). Its members list is a key reference for legitimate agencies, but membership is not an endorsement of standards (AKO does not audit/accredit members).
Executive Director Rabbi Sholem Fishbane (also cRc Kashrus Administrator). Members list includes OU, OK, Star-K, Kof-K, cRc, KSA, EarthKosher, Triangle-K, NFC/Apple-K and many regional Vaads. Useful as a recognized-agencies reference alongside the cRc 'Acceptable Kashrus Agencies' list.
How to use this safely: a listing here is not an endorsement. Only trust an authority if one you (or your community) already follow recognizes it — see the “endorsed by” tags above. Standards vary by community and by individual ruling, so always confirm with your rav.