Humous producer rewords pledge to Golani troops following boycott threats from Philadelphia BDS movement.
By RON FRIEDMANStrauss boycott 311(photo credit: Courtesy)
The Strauss Group, one of the country’s foremost food and beverage companies, has returned its website banner in support of the IDF after it was removed following pressure and boycott threats in the US.Three weeks ago the Post reported that the BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement in Philadelphia had initiated a campaign against Sabra and Tribe humous, produced by Strauss under its American logo, the Sabra Dipping Company, purportedly in protest of the company’s public support for the IDF.BDS activists held demonstrations in supermarkets and called on them to stop selling Strauss’s products.Until recently, the Petah Tikva-based Strauss Group affirmed its support for the IDF on its website under the banner of “Corporate Responsibility,” with a statement that read: “Our connection with soldiers goes as far back as the country, and even further. We see a mission and need to continue to provide our soldiers with support, to enhance their quality of life and service conditions, and to sweeten their special moments. We have adopted the Golani reconnaissance platoon for over 30 years and provide them with an ongoing variety of food products for their training or missions, and provide personal care packages for each soldier that completes the path.”The Strauss Group dropped the statement from its website when the boycott campaign was launched, but has recently posted a new section with altered text.It now reads: “As part of its donations program, the Sales Division of Strauss Israel has made a contribution to the men and women who serve in the Golani Brigade.The funds are designated for welfare, cultural and educational activities, such as pocket money for underprivileged soldiers, sports and recreational equipment, care packages, and books and games for the soldiers’ club.”Strauss declined to comment on the change in wording.Stephanie Hodes contributed to this report.
