What is Halal Food?

Halal food refers to food items that are permissible according to Islamic law. It is derived from the Quran, which is the primary source of Islamic jurisprudence, and is loosely translated as meaning ‘permissible’ or ‘lawful.’ In essence, all food items that meet the criteria of being halal are those that are produced, prepared and consumed with respect to Islamic law. A growing trend in food production and consumption, adherence to this prescribed code of ethics is gaining traction, as more people become aware of, and practice, the concept of halal.

Halal’s Principles and Principles of Consumption

The key principles of halal food include the following:

1. All food and beverages must be free from any components that are derived from animals which are not slaughtered according to Islamic law, such as pork and its derivatives, carnivorous animals, and animals not slaughtered in a humane manner.

2. All food items must be free from ingredients that are intoxicating or hazardous to health, such as alcohol and certain additives.

3. All food and beverages must not contain any ingredient or processing aid derived from animals that have died prior to slaughtering, such as bones, blood, or enzymes.

4. All food and beverages must be processed, prepared and stored separately from any type of non-halal food and beverages.

5. Poultry, mutton, beef and fish must be slaughtered in a manner that is consistent with Islamic law.

What Sets Halal Food Apart from Other Dietary Practices?

Halal food has sometimes been referred to as ‘clean’ food or ‘pure’ food, as its rules and regulations place an emphasis on hygiene and cleanliness. Halal food is also dairy and egg-free, and is therefore suitable for vegans and vegetarians, as well as lactose intolerant individuals. Other dietary practices, such as kosher and vegetarian diets, may also adhere to certain Islamic principles of produce, preparation and consumption, but they are based more on cultural dietary habits than on Islamic law. As such, halal food holds a unique status as the standard that Muslims should adhere to when it comes to their dietary choices.