Monday, November 20, 2017

Muslims Must Consume Only Halal Certified Food

By Sarah Gibson


Islam is an extremely comprehensive religion that has a definite impact on all the aspects of the daily lives of Muslims. Islamic Law is especially strict about the manufacture, preparation and consumption of foodstuffs. This is because foodstuffs play an important role in the lives of Muslims. What one eats not only nourishes the physical body, but also has an influence on the spiritual and moral character. That is why Muslims generally only buy or eat halal certified food.

Halaal certification, in essence, simply means that a manufacturer, retailer or restaurant has proven that they comply with all the rules stipulated by the Halaal Council. Such a council exists in almost every country where many Muslims reside. It is not easy to obtain certification and the application process can be protracted. Once it is obtained, it must be renewed every year. Certification can be withdrawn if the rules are breached.

Foodstuffs and products that contain certain ingredients, extracts or derivatives can never qualify for halaal certification. No Muslim may consume anything that contains any form of pork. Alcohol in any form is strictly forbidden, even if it is used as a minor ingredient. Derivatives and extracts have to be sourced at a strictly halaal abattoir because the processes in these abattoirs are very strictly monitored. No other source is allowed.

Halaal certification do not just focus on the ingredients of the foodstuffs. There are numerous other rules that must be followed during the manufacturing, packaging or preparation processes. For example, foodstuffs may not be prepared in containers such as pots or pans that have been used in the preparation of non halaal meals. It is even necessary to use separate washing and drying facilities.

Halaal certification does not require that only Muslims are involved in the manufacture of products or the preparation of meals. Nor is it necessary for an applicant to exclusively cater for the needs of Muslims. Any business or restaurant that complies with the criteria can apply. The full time presence of a minimum of two Muslims are, however, strongly recommended when meals are prepared or products manufactured and packaged.

It is interesting to note that halaal certified products and foodstuffs are also extremely popular with millions of non Muslims. Many of these people buy halaal products and meals because they feel that the extremely strict conditions under which these products are manufactured ensure very high standards of hygiene. They also like the fact that these products always contain the very best quality ingredients. Many people also find halaal foodstuffs tastier and more flavourful.

Obtaining halaal certification requires a lot of effort and preparation. Not everyone want to go this route, but they still want to attract Muslim customers. They therefore use terms such as halaal friendly, causing some consumers to think that the products in question are officially sanctioned. Consumers must therefore make sure that the products they buy and eat are truly approved.

The Islamic Law is important to all Muslims. These laws all have very specific purposes and the rules related to foodstuffs are deemed important. The vast majority of Muslims truly do their best to live by the dictates of these laws.




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