Strict Rules Apply To Halal Certified Food

By Sarah Hamilton


Islamic Law is a dominant and extremely important set of rules that directly influence the daily lives of Muslims all over the world. These laws cover all aspects of life and it is very particular about the foodstuffs that Muslims consume. This is because Muslims view it as much more than mere nutrition. What one eats also has an important impact upon the spirituality and morals of the individual. This is why Muslims go to great lengths to buy, prepare and eat on Halal certified food.

Halaal certification is not easily granted. It is a lengthy process during which the Halaal Council judge whether the applicant strictly adheres to all the rules applicable to halaal foodstuffs. Halaal Councils can be found in every country where sizeable numbers of Muslims reside. Once certification is granted it has to be renewed every year. Certification can also be withdrawn if the rules are broken.

Some types of foodstuff are simply forbidden for all Muslims. All pork products are to be shunned. Muslims may also not consume alcohol in any form, even in the form of medication that contains alcohol. Muslims must also only use extracts and derivatives that were obtained at a abattoir that is halaal approved. This is because the processes in such abattoirs are very strictly monitored at all times.

It is not only the ingredients that are used in the preparation of meals or other halaal products that are evaluated for certification purposes. The process of production or preparation is also scrutinized. Halaal products may not be contaminated by other foodstuff at any stage. Separate utensils, containers and other cooking wear must be used. It is even necessary to use exclusive cleaning and drying equipment for halaal purposes.

One would think that halaal certification will require that everything is prepared only by Muslims. This is not the case. Anyone can apply for certification and the applicant can be either an individual or a business. The Halaal Council does strongly recommend, however, that at least two Muslims are present at all times during the manufacturing, packaging or preparation of halaal products and meals.

There are numerous non Muslim people that prefer halaal food too. They are attracted by the fact that the manufacturing or preparation of these products are so strictly controlled in terms of the ingredients used and the standards of hygiene that must be maintained. They therefore view halaal foodstuffs as superior to most others. Many people also think that halaal foodstuffs are more flavourful and healthy.

It is a sad fact that there are many manufacturers and even restaurants that create the impression that they have obtained certification while they have in fact not been approved. They used terms such as halaal friendly or halaal compliant. Consumers should make sure that the products that they buy clearly display the official halaal approved logo. Advice can also be obtained from the official Halaal Council website.

For most devout Muslims Islam Law, and particularly those laws pertaining to what they eat, is not a burden. They rather see it as a virtue. A strict halaal diet is, in fact, an integral part of the Muslim religion.




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