I have seen several recipes calling for Rich's topping is that similar to cool whip or is it entirely different? I have never seen the Rich topping in my area.

It is similar but its more stable. It can set out longer than cool whip and still keep its shape.
They sell it at Cash'n'Carry...or any restaurant supply stores.

Rich's Whipped Topping (Real Whip) and Rich's Bettercreme are two different products:

(For consumers, Real Whip is similar to Cool Whip - both require refrigeration.)
http://richs.com/consumer/nondairy.asp

(For Foodservice.)
http://richs.com/foodservice_products_1.asp

Generally, on CC Rich's Bettercreme refers to the icing/filling that comes frozen in 1 qt. containers or pre-whipped in buckets and is shelf stable on the cake.

Rich's & Pastry Pride:

http://forum.cakecentral.com/cake-decorating-ftopicp-1814171-.html

http://forum.cakecentral.com/cake-decorating-ftopict-50338-.html

HTH

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