Monday 20 May 2019

The Difference Between Halal Certified Meals And Other Food

By Nancy Hill


Muslims are expected to lead disciplined lives. Almost every aspect of daily life is prescribed by the rules contained in the Islamic Law. This comprehensive directive also contains numerous rules related to the manufacturing, packaging and preparation of the food that Muslims eat. Food is, in fact, important to those of the Muslim faith. It is not just fuel for the body but food also has an influence on the spiritual life and the moral character of each individual. Subsequently, Halal certified meals are important to all Muslims.

Special Halaal councils control all applications from manufacturers or food suppliers for official certification. The process is very strictly controlled and the council will go to great lengths to make sure that the applicant follows the rules related to Halaal food. If certification is granted after a lengthy evaluation process, it is valid for a single year only and applicants must apply for renewal every year.

There are even some kinds of food that Muslims are not allowed to eat at all. They may not consume pork products or any derivatives obtain from port products. If they wish to use extracts when they cook food, they must get it from special abattoirs where Muslim assessors are in control of each and every step of the process. Alcohol is strictly forbidden too.

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.

This is a lucrative market and it is therefore not surprising that there are many unscrupulous operators that try to fool consumers into believing that their products are Halaal. They use Muslim symbols on their packaging but consumers should look out for the official Halaal Council logo. There are also websites that list all suppliers, restaurants and outlets that are officially sanctioned to prepare and sell Halaal food.

One might think that Muslims resent the fact that their lives and the food that they eat are so strictly regulated, but this is not true. They believe that the Islamic Law is there to help them live better lives, to be healthier and to grow spiritually. For any devout Muslim, these are worthwhile objectives.




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