Halal Certified Meals Comply With Very Strict Rules

By Kenneth McDonald


The lives of all Muslims are strictly regulated by the Islamic Law. This law covers does not just cover spiritual matters but also many aspects of ordinary day to day life. The rules regarding the food that Muslims consume are particularly detailed and strict. This is because, in the Muslim faith, food is not simply sustenance, but it also has a profound influence on the spirit and moral fiber of each person. This is why Muslims insist upon Halal certified meals.

Halaal certification is done by the Halaal Council. There are, in fact, such councils in every big center in most countries. They apply very strict criteria in order to make sure that applicants are indeed following all the rules contained in the Islamic Law during the preparation, packaging and manufacturing of food. Certification is valid for one year only and it can be revoked at the slightest infringement.

As is the case with those from the Jewish faith, Muslims have to completely abstain from certain types of food. They may never consume any alcohol, even if it is a vital ingredient of medicines. They also have to forego any pork products in any form. Extracts used in the manufacturing and preparation of food must be sourced through registered Muslim abattoirs where inspectors make sure that the strictest possible standards are maintained.

Even the way in which food is packaged or prepared is controlled by Islamic Law and applicants for certification must follow these rules as well. Separate utensils and containers must be used when preparing food and there may be no contact with other types of food during any process. These cooking implements must even be cleaned separately. If any cross contamination occurs, the food must be discarded.

Anyone can apply for Halaal certification, not just Muslims. It is adherence to the strict regulations that is of concern to the certification council. Applicants may also produce or supply non Halaal food but they must prove that there is no contact between Halaal and non Halaal food during manufacturing, packaging and preparation processes. Most applicants will strengthen their applications by employing at least two Muslim supervisors.

There are many millions of Muslims all over the world and this makes Halaal certification very important for anyone that wishes to cater to this lucrative market. It is interesting to note that it is not just Muslims that buy Halaal products. Many people from other faiths also prefer this food. They know that the manufacturing and preparation processes are strictly controlled and that the highest standards of hygiene are maintained.

Because the market for Halaal foods is so large, many unscrupulous operators try to pass off their products as Halaal even though they have not been certified. They use terms such as Halaal friendly on their packaging to con consumers. True certified products will always display the official logo of the Halaal Council. There are also websites where one can check whether a specific food outlet is certified.

For the majority of Muslims, the rules governing their daily lives and the food that they eat are not a burden. They see compliance with the Islamic Law as a virtue. Their food is an important part of their culture and religion and the rules make sure that they eat healthier. It is no wonder that so many non Muslims also prefer Halaal food.




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