Why Halal Certified Meals Are Important To Muslims

By Nancy Hill


The day to day lives of all devout Muslims are strictly regulated by the numerous laws, rules and regulations contained in the Islamic Law. This comprehensive set of instructions also details many rules specifically related to the preparation, manufacturing and packaging of food. For Muslims, food is much more than just mere sustenance. It has a decided impact upon the spiritual lives and the moral character too. For this reason, Muslims will only consume Halal certified meals.

Food outlets, manufacturers, distributors and restaurants that want to cater to the Muslim market must apply for Halaal certification. Applications in this regard are made to a local Halaal Council. These councils are by no means mere rubber stamping authorities. Applications are carefully evaluated and great care is taken to make sure that the applicant adheres to all the rules pertaining to certification.

Some kinds of food are completely forbidden to all Muslims. They may not eat pork in any form. The derivatives and extracts used in the cooking process must be sourced from a specially approve abattoir where Muslim assessors evaluates each and every step of the slaughtering process. Alcohol is also strictly taboo and may never be used, even if it is used in medication.

The rules related to food extend to the preparation, manufacturing and packaging processes as well. Halaal food may never come into contact with non Halaal food. Furthermore, Halaal food must be cooked, prepared, dished up and enjoyed in separate dishes, cookware and utensils used only for Halaal food. They must be cleaned and stored away from any other utensils and dishes.

Interestingly, there is no rule that only Muslims may apply for Halaal certification. Anyone that can prove the ability to follow the rules of the Islamic Law may apply. Applicants are not required to manufacture or prepare Halaal food only, but they must have systems in place to prevent any form of cross contamination. While not strictly required, the employment of at least two Muslims to oversee operations is encouraged.

It is not only Muslims that eat Halaal food. Millions of people that are not Muslims also prefer this food. They like the idea that such very high standards of hygiene is maintained during the manufacturing and preparation of the food and that only the very best ingredients are used at all times. No other type of food is subjected to such strict quality control measures.

The market for Halaal food is certainly a very large one and it is therefore not surprising that there are those suppliers, restaurants and outlets that con consumers into thinking that their food is Halaal while it is not. If the official logo of the Halaal Council is not displayed then the food is not Halaal. Vendors, restaurants and outlets are also required to prominently display their certification.

Muslims do not consider the rules related to their food as restrictive. Instead, they consider the Islamic law as a sensible and wise way in which to lead their lives. The discipline demanded by the Islamic Law strengthens the moral character of Muslims and help them to improve their spiritual, mental and physical health.




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