Crisco was originally created by
Procter & Gamble as a
kosher substitute for
lard. It was advertised to
Jewish cooks and delis with booklets of kosher baked good recipes. It became so popular that word spread to the
goyim crowd about its many uses. It has never gained a toehold in markets outside of
America, however.
As of late 2002, Crisco is owned and sold by the Smuckers company.