Why Halal Certified Food Is Important To Muslims

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 a very strictly controlled and regulated process. Applications are made to the local Halaal Council, which can be found in most countries with big Muslim populations. The application process can take months and during this time the Halaal Council make sure that the applicant is adhering to each and every rule applicable for the manufacturing and preparation of halaal products and meals. Certification is valid for one year only.

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.

Halaal certification does not require that only Muslims are involved in the handling of the products or meals. Applicants do not have to be Muslims either. Anyone can apply, as long as they abide by the rules of the Halaal Council. This council nevertheless strongly recommend that at least two Muslims are present during all stages of the manufacturing, packaging or preparation processes.

It is interesting to note that halaal products are also extremely popular with numerous people that are not Muslims. They buy halaal foodstuffs because they know that the entire process by which it was manufactured or produced has been monitored strictly and that the highest standards of hygiene have been maintained. One the very best quality ingredients are used. This definitely cannot be said of other, non halaal products.

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.

Some people think that the Islamic Law regulation regarding halaal food is restrictive. Muslims do not see it that way. For them, the laws are there to protect them and to help them be better Muslims.




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