Halal Certification

The term Halal, meaning “permissible” in Arabic, primarily refers to food and beverages that are allowed for consumption under Islamic Shariah (law). Halal standards not only define which types of food are permissible but also specify how the food must be sourced, processed, and handled.

While Halal guidelines apply to a wide range of consumables, they are particularly focused on meat and animal-derived products. The most well-known example of non-Halal (Haram) food is pork. Pork and its derivatives are strictly prohibited in Islam due to religious, cultural, and health reasons. However, other items can also be considered Haram depending on their origin, method of processing, and source of ingredients.

To meet Halal requirements, foods and ingredients must be sourced from Halal-certified suppliers. This includes careful oversight of processed foods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other products that may contain animal-based ingredients or by-products. Even items used externally — such as skincare products or supplements — must be verified as Halal.

Key Concerns & Considerations:

• Pig derivatives are present in over 185 everyday consumer products.

• 44% of the world’s gelatin is produced from pig skin — commonly found in foods, cosmetics, and medicines.

• Pig traces have been discovered in protein powders used in the poultry industry.

• Pig-based enzymes have been confirmed in some cigarette filters in Europe.

• Food additives (e.g., preservatives, stabilizers, emulsifiers, colors, sweeteners) may be derived from Haram sources.

• Natural Red Color (E120) is extracted from the blood of certain insects and may be non-Halal.

• Carbon filters used in water purification can originate from animal bones.

• Machinery parts such as belts made from leather may be sourced from Haram animals.

Halal Certification ensures transparency and compliance with Islamic guidelines, giving consumers confidence that the products they consume or use are free from Haram ingredients and produced in accordance with Shariah standards.