The Strict Rules Applicable To Halal Certified Meals

By Brian King


The Islamic Law is central to the daily lives of all Muslims. This law regulates all aspects of life, not just the religious side of it. Among other things, it contains very strict rules related to what Muslims may eat and drink and even how their food must be prepared. This is because food is much more than mere nourishment to Muslims. They believe that food also has an influence on their spirits and even their moral character. This is why they strictly stick to Halal certified meals.

Halaal certification is granted by a local Halaal Council. Such councils exist wherever sizable groups of Muslims live and work. Certification is not easily granted and the application process is protracted. The council needs to be sure that the applicant is following every rule in the manufacturing, preparation and packaging of food. Even then certification is granted only on a year to year basis.

There are certain types of food not allowed at all. Pork, in any form, is one of them. Alcohol is completely taboo, even if it is an ingredient in medication. Even derivatives and extracts used in cooking must be sourced from approved Muslim abattoirs where there are always Muslim inspectors present. The entire slaughtering process is strictly controlled throughout and extremely high standards of hygiene are maintained

Apart from using approved ingredients, even the process whereby food is manufactured, packaged and prepared is subjected to many rules. There may never be cross contamination between Halaal and other food. Contaminated food must be discarded immediately. Separate utensils, containers and tools must be used in the preparation of Halaal food. These must be cleaned and stored separately too, using separate facilities such as wash basis or dish washing machines.

It is not necessary to be a Muslim to apply for Halaal certification. Anyone that strictly adheres to the rules contained in the Islamic Law may apply. Applicants do not have to concentrate solely on the manufacture, packaging or preparation of Halaal food either, but great care must be taken to avoid cross contamination. Halaal Councils prefer the presence of Muslims when food is prepared, but this is not a strict requirement.

Many people will be surprised to learn that there are millions of people that are not of the Muslim faith that also prefer Halaal food. They are attracted by the fact that this food is prepared under such strictly controlled hygienic conditions and that the ingredients are always of the very best quality. They believe that Halaal food tastes better and that it is generally healthier than other food.

The market for Halaal food is very lucrative and it is only to be expected that there are many unscrupulous operators that try to pass their products off as Halaal approved. They use ambiguous terms such as Halaal friendly on their packaging to try and fool consumers. If the official logo of the Halaal Council is not displayed, then the food is not approved.

There can be no doubt that Halaal food is healthy, tasty and at all times handled in hygienic conditions. Sadly, this is not the case with all other types of food consumed by so many millions of people every day. Muslims certainly do not think that the rules governing their eating habits are restrictive.




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