Sunday 31 December 2017

Halal Certified Food Provides Muslims With Peace Of Mind

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 Certification can be withdrawn if the rules are breached.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.

The evaluation of certification applicants do not focus solely on the ingredients used in food. The processes used in the manufacturing of products and preparation of meals are also scrutinized. Halaal foodstuffs may never be cross contaminated with non halaal foodstuffs. The crockery, utensils and cooking equipment used must be used exclusively for halaal meals and products. These implements must even be washed and dried in separate facilities.

It is not only Muslim owned restaurants, retailers and manufacturers that are eligible for halaal certification. Any company or person that can comply with each and every rule of the Islamic Law may apply. However, the presence of at least two Muslims during manufacturing and cooking processes is strongly recommended. Their job is to make sure that every rule is strictly observed at all times.

It is not only Muslims that prefer halaal foodstuffs. Many people from other religions and people that do not adhere to any religious belief prefer halaal foods. This is because the preparation process is so carefully monitored. Halaal foods are always prepared in extremely hygienic situations and this fact provides peace of mind to many people that are hesitant about the origins of the foods that they buy and eat.

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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