10 Ingredients You Didn’t Know Were Halal

Blogs 10 Ingredients You Didn’t Know Were Halal Today’s food production process is so complicated that it can be hard knowing what goes into the food we eat. While food labeling does help, more often than not, the ingredients that are listed remains a mystery for most consumers. However, for Muslims, dietary laws are very clear. Muslims are forbidden to consume foods containing alcohol, pork, blood, etc. Evidence for this is in Surah Baqarah which says O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth that is lawful and good, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy (2:168).   So, next time when you’re out shopping and you turn over the package of your food to find ingredients like ‘sugar alcohol’ or ‘chocolate liquor’ listed, what do you do? Return it straight to the shelf? No, not so fast! Check out our list of 10 ingredients you didn’t know were halal to help you make the right shopping decisions. 1. Fish, Plant, or Synthetically Produced Gelatin Gelatin is used as a stabilizing and smoothing agent in many food products such as confectionery, jams, chocolates, and desserts. It also has non-food related applications that include medical products, textile, adhesive, and veterinary applications. Gelatin can either be haram or halal depending on its source, which could be derived from plants, fish, animals, or be synthetically produced.  One way in which Muslims can consume halal gelatin is for it to be from plants, fish, or be synthetically produced. However, there are some cases where gelatin sourced from animals is considered to be halal. For example, if the gelatin is from beef or any other halal animal that has been slaughtered in a halal way then it is permissible to consume. Furthermore, some producers have now reformed their production methods to use halal-friendly gelatin to widen the appeal of their product. Be on the lookout for the aforementioned when you consume gelatin. 2. Chocolate Liquor Now, chocolate liquor is one ingredient that has a lot of misconceptions surrounding what it is and whether it has any alcohol content. Chocolate liquor is a name given to finely ground cocoa beans and is the key ingredient in chocolate that is used as a base for cookies, brownies, and cakes. Now, to the important question: does it contain alcohol? The short answer is no. However, chocolate liquor is quite distinct from chocolate liqueur which is a flavored alcoholic beverage.  3. Whey Whey is the liquid part of milk that’s obtained during the process of cheese-making. Whey itself is halal since it is a by-product of the cheese fabrication process. The reason for the problematic nature of whey is the enzyme (rennet) used in curdling the milk. Whey can only be halal when the rennet used is from a halal source such as cows that were slaughtered according to Islamic Law, synthetic process, or microbial sources. 4. Vanillin  Vanillin is a flavorant made from synthetic or artificial vanilla which is used as an alternative to vanilla extract. It can be used in a variety of industries that includes cosmetics, food production, pharmaceutical, beverage, health, and personal care products. On the other hand, vanilla extract on the other hand is made by macerating and percolating vanilla beans in an alcoholic solution. Vanillin is mostly used for food flavoring. So, the next time you find vanillin listed on the label of desserts or other sweet food, you can go ahead and buy it without the fear of it containing alcohol. 5. Benzoic Acid Benzoic acid is a preservative that helps inhibit the growth of yeast, bacteria, and mold in foods and beverages. It is used as an additive for preserving foods like salad dressing, pickles, soft drinks, fruit juice, and barbecue sauces. In addition to its use as a food additive, manufacturers also use it in producing fragrances, artificial flavors, and as a ph. adjuster. Since benzoic acid is manufactured through chemical synthesis which consists of chemical, mineral, and synthetic-based ingredients, it is generally recognized to be halal. 6. Vegetable Glycerine Glycerine which is also known as ‘glycerol’ is an amazing diverse ingredient that’s used in food products, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. As a food additive, glycerine is multipurpose. It is used for retaining moisture, extending product shelf life, as well as giving products (such as granola bars, cookies, candy, and ice cream) a creamy texture. You can find it in canned, frozen, and processed dried fruits and vegetables for preventing them from drying out.  Glycerine is of two major sources: animals and plants. They come in the form of fats and oil (vegetable) sources. Animal glycerine is considered to be mashbooh (its status as halal or haram is doubtful). While the source of material doesn’t affect the chemistry of the final product, the distinction between the two sources is important for Muslims. It is doubtful whether animal-derived glycerine is halal or not. However, synthetic glycerine and vegetables sourced glycerine is considered to be halal.  7. Vegetable Emulsifiers Emulsifiers are used as a food additive to aid immiscible liquids such as water and oil to form stable emulsions. They are used in baked goods, salad dressing, and convenience snacks in order to prolong their storage period and improve their overall taste and appearance. The most popular emulsifiers are MAG and DAG which are considered halal when derived from plant-based sources. 8. Enzymes Enzymes are naturally present in living organisms like animals, bacteria, and plants. They perform the important function of speeding up and catalyzing specific reactions in these organisms while producing a few by-products. The food industry has taken advantage of properties such as enzymes in order to cut down on food production costs, waste production, manufacturing time as well as to improve color, texture, and taste. Enzymes allow food and beverage manufacturers to do more, faster, and with less. It can help boost brewing and baking, as well as optimize confectionery, dairy, and fats and oil. With the advent of bioengineering, microbial enzymes that function as well as animal enzymes, are being produced. Moreover, bioengineered enzymes are more compatible with halal food production since they are

How to Keep Halal while Traveling

Blogs How to Keep Halal while Traveling Have you ever struggled to find halal food while traveling? Well, you are not alone!  Most Muslims who travel experience some degree of difficulty in finding halal food especially if the country they’re traveling to is a Muslim minority country. Also, not all countries are able to experience the privilege that comes with having established halal regulatory bodies. So, whether you’re struggling to eat halal in your hometown, or in another town, we have compiled a few tips that will ease your struggles and keep your worries at bay. Do Research Before you embark on your journey, planning is crucial. It is important that you research whether your destination has halal food or if there’s a dominant Muslim presence with a local masjid. Based on your findings, make a list (in your phone or your notebook) of these restaurants and grocers that you can easily refer to. If you need additional help, try zabiha.com.   By planning and doing research ahead of time, you will be able to focus more on enjoying your trip instead of wondering where your next halal meal is going to come from. Opt for Self-Catering For next-level peace of mind, you can guarantee halal food by staying in self-catering accommodation and cooking your own food. If the place you’re traveling to has halal produce, and your itinerary allows you the time, making your own food is a safe way to ensure that the food you’re consuming is halal. Moreover, by bringing your own packed foods to your one-day trips, you double up on saving money and you reduce your carbon footprint by using less waste that would’ve come with ordering takeout. Go Pescatarian  If you’re in a tricky situation where halal options aren’t available to you, go pescatarian for the duration of your trip. In most Islamic schools of law, seafood is considered halal. If you’re intending to cook your own meals, products such as fish and tuna are readily available depending on your destination. However, if you’re eating at a restaurant, make sure that the food is not contaminated with meat products or alcohol. Get Acquainted with the Halal Logo  If you’re a halal conscious consumer, you would easily be able to identify the halal certification stamp. Certified food products and restaurants will make the stamp explicit. However, there are many restaurants that aren’t certified but advertise halal meat. Whatever the reason, it is important that you use your discretion and back it up with your research findings. Eat Whole FoodsIn the Quran, Allah implores us to eat of what Allah has provided for you [which is] lawful and good (5:88). An easy way to eat halal is to eat whole foods from the earth. Wherever you travel, depending on the season, whole foods such as fruit and vegetables will always be in abundance and widely available to purchase. Before you travel, look up the nearest grocer and compile a list of all the goods you might need to sustain yourself throughout your trip. Avoid Processed FoodAs a rule of thumb, avoid processed foods to the best of your ability. Processed foods may contain ingredients that you aren’t familiar with which may cause you to doubt. As the old saying goes, when in doubt, don’t. By avoiding processed foods, and opting for that which is halal and pure, you’re guaranteed peace of mind and you’re taking care of your body. Moreover, travelling can be taxing on the body so it is important that you steer clear from processed foods and eat that which is of optimal nutrition. Pack Your Own Travel SnacksIf you’re on the road and you’re afraid there might not be a halal goods to purchase on the way, pack your own travel snacks. Travel snacks are essential for long journeys and are essential to keeping your hunger at bay. Ready-made snacks such as overnight oats, packaged assorted nuts, dried fruits, pre-packed sandwiches, and salads, are quick and easy foods that you can travel with. Elevate the nutritional value of your foods by topping it up with herbs and assorted seeds like chia, pumpkin, flax, hemp, and sunflower. Islam is a religion of ease. Allah facilitates ease for the Muslim, especially the traveler. In order to make the most of your journey whilst adhering to the integrals of Islam, doing your research ahead of time is key.

The Pandemic and Animal Welfare

Blogs The Pandemic and Animal Welfare The novel coronavirus has revealed much about our society. From the Islamic perspective, we are duty bound to do our best to understand what is taking place so that our response is measured, appropriate, and wise. We are witnessing hardships and injustices like never before. People and animals alike are ill-treated. The difficulties many people face in obtaining healthcare, housing, and job security amplify much of the world’s growing inequality. Our modified routines offer us an opportunity to reflect more deeply and empathetically on our life, and the lives of animal-kind as well.According to the World Health Organization, the virus began when a reported case of pneumonia emerged in Wuhan China in December 2019. The earliest cases link to Wuhan’s ‘wet’ markets, though the exact origin of the virus remains unclear. Typically, these markets sell fresh foods like seafood, meat, fruits, and vegetables. More rarely, they have been known to engage in the sale of wild animals, both slaughtered and live. Although China has recently implemented a ban on wildlife transactions, these markets are part of a much larger discussion: the exploitation of animals and the cruel practices within the meat industry. Illegal wildlife trade is an international problem. Animals are usually trafficked for their exotic appeal, the belief in their mystical powers for medicinal use, or high-profit margins which maintains supply and demand. The process is often one that is unsustainable, leading to the endangerment of species. Pangolins have drawn much attention since Covid-19 for the strong indication of being potential hosts of the virus. TRAFFIC, a wildlife trade monitoring network, reported smuggling of an estimated 1 million pangolins from 2000- 2013, believing many to conclude Pangolins as the world’s most trafficked mammal. According to WWF, wildlife trade is the second-biggest direct threat to species after habitat destruction. These facts highlight the urgent need to reevaluate our relationship with nature and animal-life.  Islam provides exemplary guidance on what is permissible to consume, and which practices are best suited in killing animals. This assures the safety of people and minimal suffering for the animals involved. The health of the earth, and all that inhabit it, is fundamental to the religion.    “The health of the earth, and all that inhabit it, is fundamental to the religion.”  Historically, Ireland implemented the first legislation against animal cruelty in 1635. The Act prohibited pulling working horses by their tails and sheep from having their wool pulled, instead of sheered. Although this act of activism is noteworthy, animal rights and the prohibition of abuse are a recurring topic amongst prophetic teachings and passages within the Qurʾān, a text revealed over 1400 years ago. Islam has therefore long since been an advocate for cruelty-free animal practices. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was a model of kindness towards animals. He treated the environment and animals with the utmost respect and embodied mercy in his interactions with them. One hadith narrates the Prophet as saying:  “A good deed done to an animal is as meritorious as a good deed done to a human being, while an act of cruelty to an animal is as bad as an act of cruelty to a human being.” (Mishkat al-Masabih; Book 6; Chapter 7, 8:178.)  This illuminating saying shows that Islam is a religion of peace and compassion, which holds the rights of animals in high regard. The serious implications of transgressing these rights communicate the absolute value of animal wellbeing. The forceful removal of wild animals from their habitat causes immense trauma, and their transportation and living conditions are usually appalling. The emotional distress of an unfamiliar location or overcrowding can affect the physical wellbeing of these animals, weakening their immune system and making them more vulnerable to infections. This is particularly concerning as during this time humans and animals find themselves in closer proximity, resulting in a higher risk of spreading zoonotic diseases. These are diseases that exist in animals and can infect humans. Unfortunately, it is not only wildlife that suffers cruelty at the hands of humanity. Factory farming exposes many cases of ill-treatment towards animals. The Animal Welfare Institute reported debeaking, tail docking, hot-iron branding, and dehorning as being some of the illicit practices that take place on factory farms. The expense of these profit-driven actions means animals live a life of discomfort and torment. This takes away from appreciating the blessing of sustenance provided by our Lord. The key to cohabiting peacefully with whom we share this world lies in finding balance. It is a responsibility for all of humanity to ensure the welfare of animals through humane practices and socially responsible treatment. This includes securing sustainability by only taking as much as nature can provide. If these trying times are to remind us of anything, it should be to practice gratitude and evaluate the stress we place on our natural resources. Conservation and promoting animal rights is an obligation in Islam and something that brings us closer to Allah سبحانه و تعالى. By being conscious consumers, we can approach the meat industry with more awareness and hold those liable for negligence accountable.

Exploring Halal Certification Challenges As The Industry Goes Global

Blogs Exploring Halal Certification Challenges As The Industry Goes Global Preventing Instability The halal industry is growing and expanding globally. As Islam is the fastest-growing religion in the world, the world’s interest in halal consumption continues to grow as well .   The European halal market increases 10-20% year over year. By 2025, its value is likely to surpass 9.7 trillion US dollars. Along with its rigorous regulations and its tenents rooted in the Islamic faith, the halal certification stamp is one that signifies superior quality. The halal certification stamp extends beyond halal food . Far from being limited to one sector, it includes a variety of industries such as pharmaceuticals , cosmetics , and  modest fashion . However, despite it occupying a niche market and its religious affiliations, the halal industry is not innocently absolved from being subject to corruption.  As the halal industry continues to expanding exponentially, regulatory institutions and credible certifying agencies are in high demand. According to the International Trade Centre (ITC), The first organization to catapult the concept of halal certification was the Muslim Judicial Council Halaal Trust(MJCHT) in 1945. Based in Cape Town, the MJC Halalal Trust laid the foundational blocks for halal assurance, service, control, and food development. Moreover, their mission extends beyond South Africa as their aim is “to create an environment whereby everyone is comfortable with the entire chain of the halal (permissible) food supply in South Africa and beyond its borders.” Despite the long history of the MJC Halaal Trust, their reputation was briefly compromised. In 2011, a video circulated throughout social media of Orion Cold Meat Storage (a company certified by the MCJ Halaal Trust) displaying falsely labeled products as ‘halal’. Even though the MJC suspended its certification from Orion Cold Meat Storage with immediate effect, they still remained the victims of slander. Interestingly, it was brought to light that the Orion saga allegedly ensued as a result of rival competitors bribing their employees to falsely relabel products. Corruption happens on multiple levels and it’s largely driven by one motive: gaining profit. Herein lies the challenge that certifying agencies face. Certification is largely a trust between two companies. If one or the other falters, the certification body is nearly always the party that takes the fall. This is why halal certifiers must properly perform their due dilligence with respect to validating the integrity of the requesting agency. This will not only protect the halal certification agencies credibility in the long run, but it also protects the consumer from fraud and consuming non-halal products. In one incident, a box of chicken was sold with a halal label even though the supplying company was not certified. This is the case with some unscrupulous businesses that do not care whether or not they comply. They remain intent on involving themselves with the halal conscious consumer irrespective of the concern they should have. Halal certification agencies must act as gate keepers to ensure that these particular businesses stay far away from our consumer base.  The certification process is a rigorous procedure that takes into account auditing the facility, reviewing the listed ingredients, the size and complexity of the location of production, and training personnel. Some businesses, however, attempt to evade these necessary measures in order to dupe the public and cut costs. The modern day mass-production environment only encourages more bad behavior and profiteering. One of the primary challenges that halal certification bodies face is the blame game. Some businesses go to the extent of accusing the certifying body of being ‘untrustworthy’, whilst the guilt of fraudulent practices is a result of their own misdeeds. When businesses engage in fraudulent acts such as the aforementioned, they not only damage their reputation, but they raise doubts around the integrity of the halal certifying bodies. As a result, the halal concious consumer is negatively affected, and understandibly feels cheated and lied to. In turn, fraud never ends well, as the consumer has a legitimate basis for legal action. In the case of a Halal Little Caesars in Michigan, a customer ordered pizza but after discovering the pepperoni he ordered was actually pork, he took them to court. On a much larger scale, there are reported incidents where meat was distributed (under the guise of it being halal) to schools and prisons, causing an uproar in the community. In Germany, a meat company came under fire after horse-meat, and traces of pork were found in its lamb products. The situation is further heightened when these companies produce and export meat products on a large scale, hence adversely affecting and misleading consumers on an international level. The challenges for halal certification agencies are many. This is precicesly the reason that Halal watch world has been working hard to implement systems, standards, and measures that help disuade companies from malpractice and fraudulent actifities. Our efforts are push back on the negatives and replace them with positives. We will continue to transparently share our methods and refine our solutions to present problems. It should be noted however, no matter how crime proof the methods, we are bound to come into contact with varying degrees of fraudulent activity. Remember, it takes two to tango. Even though halal authorities and certifying agencies are dilligent and rigorous in their regulatory processes, businesses with, or seeking halal certification must be honest, and treat their service provider with respect. To steer clear of potential problems, businesses should take heed and certify with a credible certifying body that takes the process seriously. 

Five Myths Concerning the Halal Industry

Blogs 8 Products You Didn’t Know Were NOT Halal When it comes to ‘halal,’ many people are a little bit confused as to what exactly this entails. A global increase in immigration and advancements in technology have aided in the development of multicultural societies, exposing us to people of different faiths, beliefs, and life experiences.  Unsurprisingly, this brings about some curious natures, often resulting in questions like “Do you shower with a scarf on?” and “Is Eid your Christmas?” Though there is a genuine interest in Islamic practices, people often misunderstand aspects of Islam; this is either due to lack of information or an abundance of misinformation.  We have compiled a list of the five most common misconceptions surrounding halal certification to help educate and clear up any false narratives that are perpetuated.  1. What is ‘halal’? The biggest misconception centers around what ‘halal’ means. Some people think it simply means eating no pork; others are under the impression that it refers to North African or Middle Eastern cuisine.   The truth is… Halal means ‘permissible’. It relates to dietary rules, but more broadly refers to every aspect of a Muslim’s life: how to dress; interact with others; or conduct business affairs. It encompasses a holistic lifestyle and helps believers maintain their spirituality in everyday activities. As it relates to food, halal goes beyond just the prohibition of pork or alcohol. While it restricts certain foods considered harmful or unbeneficial, halal governs the entire process of food production, from the sourcing of ingredients to manufacturing and distribution. It also places a great amount of emphasis on cleanliness and hygienic practices within the industry. 2. I’ve heard its inhumane! Those who are unfamiliar with just how much Islam advocates animal rights are often of the opinion that slaughtering practices within the religion are ‘cruel’ and, sometimes, ‘barbaric.’ The truth is… The Islamic slaughtering practice prioritizes the well-being of animals. Islam considers the mistreatment of any animal sinful. There are certain conditions set out in which to keep animals before slaughter that must be adhered to. Animals must find themselves in an environment that provides them with a wholesome life. This means that they should be well fed, have adequate shelter, and enough space to move around comfortably. Islam has zero tolerance for animal abuse, and considers any animal killed by strangulation or violent blows as haram. Compared with battery farming, Islamic principles are far more humane. Performing the slaughter in a dignified manner ensures the animal experiences the least amount of pain possible. A sharp knife must be used to secure a clean cut, resulting in the animal instantly losing all sensation. To prevent any further anxiety, no other animal should witness the slaughtering of another. There is consensus that stunning an animal (rendering it unconscious) before the slaughtering is more humane. Though it remains a topic of controversy amongst some Islamic scholars, pre-stunned meat is generally considered permissible on the conditions that it is carried out appropriately, and the animal does not die due to stunning. In some countries, such as New Zealand and Iceland, all religious slaughter legally requires pre-cut stunning. Although the prescribed methods of Islamic slaughtering is believed to be the best, these regulations mean a significant amount of halal meat complies with what is judicially deliberated as humane. 3. What are those chants – will I be cursed? Though it may sound absurd, the rituals of Islamic slaughter may seem eerie to those unfamiliar with the process. Many people do not know what is being said or why. They may be under the impression that halal meat involves some form of sacrificial offering or “voodoo.” The truth is… There is absolutely nothing creepy or harmful about the process! What Muslims recite over slaughtered meat is “Bismillah Allahu Akbar,” which translates to: “In the Name of Allah (God); Allah is the Greatest.” We keep our creator in mind in all that we do, and slaughtering is no exception. Invoking the name of God is done to show gratitude for the sustenance provided by our Lord. This also helps us appreciate and show respect for the animal life that is being sacrificed. 4. Can I eat that too? Some people think that halal means reserved for Muslims and are timid in their approach to eating anything labeled ‘halal’. The truth is… Halal foods are for everyone to enjoy. As mentioned, halal-certified foods assure quality is met at the level set out by halal regulating bodies. It prioritizes safety and hygienic processes, stresses animal welfare and concerns itself mainly with recognizing God in the ritual of slaughter. This indicates that there is nothing that forbids people of other faiths from indulging in anything labeled halal. It is important to address any inaccurate understanding regarding this as many communities are made up of Muslims who live side by side with those of other creeds and cultures. Once people come to understand the ethics involved in halal certification, eating ‘halal’ often becomes appealing even to non-Muslim consumers.   5. What’s your agenda Muslim?! One of the biggest consequences of misunderstanding halal certification is Islamophobia. In countries where Muslims are a minority, or where there is an influx of Muslim immigrants, people may feel that something like halal certification is a way for Muslims to take over and try to convert the masses. The truth is… Halal certification has no intention of dividing society. Instead, it is a means of offering a certain group the ability to purchase products without compromising their religious beliefs. No money made in support of halal-certified products or halal certifying bodies goes to funding any terrorist groups. The expansion of halal certification has unsettled many people who hold prejudice views against Islam. Belgium issued a ban on kosher and halal slaughtering methods in 2019, supposedly in the name of animal protection. But many people felt its implementation put pressure on Muslim and Jewish people to conform to the secular culture of the country, infringing on their freedom of religious rights. GQ’s coverage of the ban referred to it as a “vehicle for

Halal Watch World affiliates with The Seed of Life

Blogs Halal Watch World affiliates with The Seed of Life We sat down with Riswana Kadernani from The Seed of Life to find out more about the organization and its foundation.  1. What is The Seed of Life Foundation? What does it do? The Seed of Life Foundation is a nonprofit organization based out of Chicago, USA. We educate on the importance of adopting an environmentally consciousness lifestyle; educate children by providing virtual education and plant trees globally. 2. Why and how did you come across this kind of concept? How SOL (The Seed of Life Foundation) came to be is very personal to me. I was actually going through personal hardships and had fallen into a deep depression. There didn’t seem to be any light, and I felt really alone. People who I had trusted deeply and relied on in my life, even they had changed and I felt all alone. I understand Allah (SWT) tests whom He Loves. But it surely didn’t seem like that. I was extremely hurt; my prayers were neither aligned nor attentive and I was losing myself.  I researched what to do, especially as a Muslim. Most common responses online were talk to an imam, sheikh, or such individuals. Pray Salah or read Qur’an. Have Sabr. I was like seriously, isn’t there something I can change or do?  Then I researched as what people usually do when they go through darkness in life and I realized the responses were: Volunteer in senior homes or poor homes Visit funerals to realize the reality of death Spend time with orphans and individuals  Give tons of charity i.e. time, monetary, resources Take care of animals Upkeep and take care of Earth Whatever I learned and looked them up in Qur’an and it was evident is list is in Qur’an, but we humans never pay attention, do we?  I love nature and as I got few friends together and SOL took place, and we came to learn taking care of Earth, planting trees and spreading knowledge is all part of Sunnah. Our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) loved that and strongly encouraged these actions.  Alhamdulillah, I realized happiness isn’t about what we want and get, but rather giving others what we want for ourselves.  3. What is your vision for SOL and what do you aim to achieve? Our vision is to spread knowledge and educate as many people as possible regarding environmental effects. There is too much information within [sic] our fingertips, thanks to the internet and various social media platforms, but unfortunately equally the information that is bombarded to us on daily basis, majority isn’t fact checked, which creates wrong or misinformation.  We have come across a lot of people that lack basic information regarding the environment, climate, nature and ecosystems. But during Covid-19, during lockdown, everyone was forced to see the results.  We would like to make this world greener for future generations, so they don’t face lockdowns, unknown illnesses, freedom restrictions, and most of all, that they are able to breath [sic] fresh air.  Our aim is to make sure every single person, regardless of faith, should have at least one tree planted on their behalf.  As a Muslim, planting tree is highly recommended as it is an act of Sunnah itself. Anas (RA) reported that the Prophet Muhammad SAW said:  “If the Hour (the day of Resurrection) is about to be established and one of you was holding a palm shoot, let him take advantage of even one second before the Hour is established to plant it.” (Authenticated by Al-Albani) “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a sadaqah (charitable gift) for him.” — Imam Bukhari. 4. Why is planting trees important to the environment? And what are the benefits? I guess I illustrated that in question #3, but I would like to add, since Covid-19, taking care of our own Earth isn’t an option now, but rather an urgency to change our habits such as less consummation [sic] of materialistically [sic], limit or stop use of plastic, don’t litter the environment or beaches, complete [sic] stop to deforestation and poaching. Many people don’t realize trees and animals are the reason human beings are still alive, but without these two factors, [sic] human race is going to end.  5. How is your organization helping people? We have many projects and events that we are currently working on. We are working to team up with schools globally to add curriculum “School Garden” which teaches students to garden, plant, and take care of nature; all hands-on.                               i.     We teamed with 100 schools all underprivileged in Africa to train, educate, and start ‘School Garden’ in [sic] the premises.                                ii.     Children will have hands-on education                               iii.     It creates jobs within the community, resources, and food. We have started the ‘Plant a Tree, Educate One Child Campaign, that help’s [sic] give each child a tree to him/her self to plant, take care of and study. We are also working with similar aspects in India, but due to Covid-19 that country, respectfully is complete [sic] lockdown at this moment We have started the ‘Virtual Reality Planting Education’ program that informally teaches children the importance about [sic] planting trees and taking care of nature, using virtual platforms within their own homes. 6. How can people get in touch and what can they do to assist? We are, Alhumdullillah, on many online platforms and consistently updating them on daily basis: Website: www.the-sol-foundation.org Email: admin@the-sol-foundation.org Facebook: The Seed of Life Foundation Instagram: @theseedoflifefoundation Twitter: @TheSeedof_Life Blog: the-sol-foundation.blogspot.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/seed-of-life/   We kindly ask, to start taking initiative by taking small steps for better

Halal Expo 2020

Blogs Halal Expo 2020 The Halal Industry in North America has grown exponentially over the past few years, with the global halal market set to reach $3 Trillion by the year 2023. The ever-expanding nature of this industry has left much room for enlightenment, revolution and global discourse.  In 2018, Arabesque Media USA began taking fundamental steps towards filling this gap, hosting the first halal expo in the United States.  Now, almost three years later, on the cusp of the third annual expo, we sat down with the president of the agency, Marwan Ahmad, to weigh in on his vision and goal. Arabesque Media USA is a marketing agency that specialises in Middle Eastern and Muslim markets, so the halal industry is well within the realm of their expertise.   In the beginning, the halal expo was aimed equally at businesses and consumers. As time progressed, their focus has shifted and the event is predominantly centered around B2B engagements.   Marwan speaks passionately and effortlessly about the expo and its purpose, citing that the main goal is to bridge the gaps in the industry, and make information around the concept of ‘halal’ more accessible and widespread. A big issue, as identified by Marwan, is that many consumers do not necessarily realize or know how meticulous and thorough the halal certification is – or ought to be. The typical halal-conscious consumer may presume that all items issued with a halal label have endured the same rigorous process, abiding by all the same standards. Industry experts can confirm that this is untrue. This brings to the fore another core objective for these expos: the establishment, inclusive conversation and evolution surrounding the standardization of halal certification. For this reason, Marwan and his team have brought together experts in a myriad of fields relating to ‘halal’, to share their knowledge of industry trends and developments in the form of a summit. Newcomers to the industry are invited to pitch their ideas to potential investors, as well as indulge in other networking opportunities.   Experts in attendance include – but are not limited to – academics, government officials, and business executives. Marwan believes that these conversations need to happen out in the open; people should know who certifies halal products, what expertise gives them the authority to do so and what their relevant processes are. He champions the right consumers have to transparency with respect to these practices.   The event was Initially in-person, however, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the halal expo has shifted online via a virtual medium. Although Marwan expresses that this presented a challenge in terms of finding the right platform to host an event of this scale, he also acknowledges that this has come with many advantages too. Now that the expo is entirely virtual, there are no real constraints on the attendees; no matter where you are in the world, you can pull up a chair, and check in to the event. People may lose the connectedness of physical presence, but the essence, quality and objectives remain. Seeing the goal of the flourishing global halal market come to fruition, really is a team project. Marwan reiterates this, stating that he asserts the expo will be a consistent annual event, where people gather – whether virtually or in person – to keep abreast of the developments in the industry. This ultimately benefits businesses and consumers. “This event will be disruptive. Some people may not like what we will present because we’re digging deep into ‘what is halal?’ and we’re bringing [in] important players and including academics and government agencies.” Marwan is hopeful that at some point in the future halal standards will be enforced on a government level. The work of halal standardization is extremely collaborative, the progress of which hinges on all elements of the concerned industries working together to produce halal standards and transparency that can be looked to and depended upon globally. In addition to the collaborative work on halal standards, participants can also expect a halal business start-up session, an awards ceremony for the top three US halal businesses, and a live cooking show by Yvonne Maffei of the website My Halal Kitchen. As a sponsor of the 2020 Virtual Halal Expo, Halal Watch World endorses its cause and mission, believing wholeheartedly that it will benefit the Muslim ummah in totality. To book tickets to this year’s Halal Expo visit halalexpousa.com.

The Black Muslim Students Conference

Blogs The Black Muslim Students Conference Meeting a Community Need Throughout America, and even globally, racial tensions are at an all-time high. Like many other social justice movements of the past, our youth are the ones who are breaking barriers and demanding change. Life handed us lemons, and our college and university students, have made lemonade – even virtually too. These students have used social media as a powerful tool for connection, raising awareness on pertinent social issues, and planning instrumental events. The Black Muslim Students Conference is a virtual conference that aims to provide Black students, parents, and alumni with a (virtual) platform to connect and openly discuss the issues that plague the community. The event commences on October 30th, 2020 with an exciting line-up featuring many speakers, fun virtual activities, and an opportunity to build new connections. While the conference is addressed to Black students and alumni, the event is open to all.  “We want attendees to take away a sense of awareness, belonging, and purpose, especially for Black Muslim Students because we are usually excluded in academic and religious spaces. We hope everyone feels included and builds life-long lasting friendships”, says Sultan-Diego Sulayman, a recent Howard University Graduate who assisted in planning the conference. Thalia Blankson, who is a current Senior at SUNY Albany, is also instrumental in the planning of the conference. Blankson explained, “I want people to see what the Black Muslim student community is like. Additionally, as a convert to Islam, I am interested in networking and learning about Islam through the eyes of people like me.” We sat down with Thalia Blankson and Sultan-Diego Sulayman to discuss the behind-the-scenes of the Black Muslim Students Conference:  Jannah Umar: Can you give us a brief description of what the Black Muslim Students Conference is? Sultan-Diego Sulayman: The Black Muslim Students (Virtual) Conference: Defining and Celebrating the Black Muslim Student Identity is a premier conference for Black Muslims that will bring together collegiate students, on a national level. This conference will provide ways to discuss, learn more about, and celebrate the Black Muslim student identity. JU: What are some main highlights that registrants can look forward to? SS: Multiple Networking sessions to have 1-on-1 interactions with other attendees. We are aiming to have 500+ registrants. Friday will be an Open-Mic Night, featuring Tariq Toure & Hasnaa Hashim. There will also be a student lead spoken-word poetry performance. On Saturday, we will have several workshops to choose from, with various topics such as the Convert/Revert experience, Loving Relationships, Colorism, and how to raise money for your MSA. JU: So many aspects of our lives became virtual overnight. Would you say that the world becoming virtual made planning easier, or complicated things?    Thalia Blankson: Making the conference virtual has made planning easier because all the students that I worked with are from different parts of the country. It would be harder to meet everyone in person, especially because we have different schedules and the financial burden of traveling from one state to another might have been a problem for people. We were able to plan things out in a timely manner and quickly send a text. If we were to meet in person, it would be harder to reach out to each other. JU: What lasting impact would you like for this conference to have on attendees, individually, and as a group? TB: I want people to come and learn about Islam from scholars who are experts in the field. Attendees will also have several chances to meet each other, and maybe make life-long connections. It would make me proud, if other Black Muslim students go out and create other conferences or start businesses. JU: Our world is facing challenges that we never thought we would see in our lifetime. Do you think there is a void in our community, that this conference will fill?  SS: Yes, this conference aims to give Black Muslims a voice, and provide an opportunity for others to hear our experiences and perspectives. It is possible that this could be the first time that some Muslims and non-Muslims alike, hear from Black Islamic Scholars, speakers, and students while attending our virtual conference.   The Black Muslim Students Conference will be this Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st.   This conference is free for all to attend. The gelatin, along with the salt and spices, helps to create an added flavor, making Planters Dry Roasted Peanuts unfit to consume for the halal conscious consumer as well as those on an exclusively plant based diet. As an alternative, you can make your own roasted peanuts at home or look out for nut brands that have no animal by-products such as Blue Diamond Growers  and Wonderful Pistachios and Almonds. To register, click here.

The Fatwa-Taqwā Challenge

Blogs The Fatwa-Taqwā Challenge What are the Real Hurdles? When it comes to choosing between Taqwā or Fatwa, we may unconsciously lean towards “Taqwā.” Taqwā – usually referred to as “God-consciousness” – is integral for those aspiring to elevate and maintain their level of spirituality. However, it is nearly impossible to have Taqwā without understanding how the concept of Fatwa fits into our daily practice. In this article, I’ll be unpacking the underlying issues one may face, when trying to balance Fatwa and Taqwā. This internal struggle between these two Islamic concepts, will be referred to as the “Fatwa-Taqwā Challenge”. [1] Considering the Fatwa-Taqwā Challenge, the martyr, Shaykh Muhammad Saʿīd Ramaḍān al-Būṭī says: “Regardless of how much truth there is to the claim that Muslims have departed from their noble Islamic way of life in recent years, it is my personal belief that the upcoming generation of Muslims possesses a deeper awareness of true Islam and a greater capacity for careful thought and observation than any other modern generation. Hence, it will not be long before we find that such awareness has been transformed into a positive, active movement which corrects distortions, straightens that which has grown crooked, and rebuilds the Islamic edifice from the bottom up.”  [2] The first step to understanding the Fatwa-Taqwā Challenge, is to define it. The concept of Taqwā, refers to; ‘being conscious and fearful of Allah ﷻ, and abstaining from His prohibitions due to one’s remembrance of, and love for Him’. Fatwa oftentimes is related to abiding by the abstract legal boundaries, or rulings, that have been established in Islam. In other words, the concept of Fatwa, is related to the strict text and rulings, of what we should and should not do as Muslims. Having Taqwa is not only choosing between right and wrong, but doing so, being mindful that you can earn Allah’s love, and be saved from His wrath, if you abide by these rules. Another way to look at it may be, the Fatwa (or rule) of praying 5 times a day. You can make sure you make each prayer on time –  and in the proper way – but doing so, with the consciousness of Allah ﷻ, is related to your level of Taqwa. In the words of the Messenger ﷺ, “What is lawful is evident and what is unlawful is evident, and in between them are the things doubtful which many people do not know. So, he who guards against harmful things keeps his religion and his honor blameless, and he who indulges in doubtful things indulges in fact in unlawful things, just as a shepherd who pastures his animals around a preserve will soon pasture them in it. Beware, every king has a preserve, and the things God has declared unlawful are His preserves. Beware, in the body, there is a piece of flesh; if it is sound, the whole body is sound, and if it is corrupt, the whole body is corrupt, and hearken it is the heart.” (Bukhārī and Muslim) This prophetic narration informs us that between that which is considered ‘lawful’ and ‘unlawful,’ there is a degree of uncertainty. It assures us that while some matters can easily be considered “black and white,” there are grey areas. However, acknowledging the plurality of rulings can be difficult. Even though we may feel that the Islam we practice is “more correct”, than the way in which someone else practices, the religion is incredibly vast. We may also realize that our Fatwā is a crucial indicator of our “Taqwā.” Part of ‘Taqwā’ is to look for the permissibility of an action before executing it. Hence, learning the legal dos and don’ts – in a purely theoretical sense – is the first stage of Taqwā. In the following passage, Ibn Jamāʿah al-Tunisī outlines the following objectives of Taqwā: “He was asked to write a book pertaining to Islamic mysticism. He then took pleasure in this request and started writing a book regarding Islamic commerce. He was then asked about this to which he replied, “This is Islamic mysticism; because the pivotal point of Islamic mysticism is eating from permissible sources. Whoever does not know the laws of monetary transactions will not be safeguarded from eating from impermissible sources such as usury and invalid sales.” He thus wrote this work as a means to eating from permissible sources; and whoever eats from permissible sources, shall do actions of permissibility [piety…]” [3] Consider the following extract: “And it is permissible to move [in taking legal rulings] from one Madhhab (legal school of thought) to another of the documented Madhāhib, even if it is purely for the sake of personal preference… for so long as this does not result in Talfīq (legal contradiction).” [4] From this, we can see that there are limits when seeking an Islamically legal justification, for something. Subsequently, this should not result in us exploring all the available options to find a “legal loophole.” This defeats the purpose of Taqwā and seeking the pleasure of Allah ﷻ in all matters. Essentially, whenever a person is following a legal ruling, this indicates the presence of Taqwā, within that individual. Because there are levels of Taqwā, different actions may represent different levels. Choosing the more difficult action, however, is not necessarily an indicator of a person’s level of Taqwa (a false notion that we will discuss in another article!). One must respect that every individual is at a different stage in their journey towards Allah ﷻ. Often, when we are unmerciful with ourselves in our spiritual practices, we place difficulty on other Muslims in their journey to Allah ﷻ. The presence of a minimum does not bar one from practicing the maximum. Abiding by a specific Fatwā in your daily life, should not stop you from having Taqwā, nor should it be the other way around. Your intention to abide by this Fatwā may eventually transform into a higher level of Taqwā. This was the case of the early Muslim community in

Understanding Expiration Dates

Blogs Understanding Expiration Dates Do They Really Matter? As consumers become more critical of where their food comes from and how it is made, checking an expiration date on labels has become a common practice. No one wants to buy expired foods, let alone consume them. Every now and then, we may pull out an expired item from our kitchen cabinets, we may take a risk and try the food anyway. The question is, however, do foods become unsafe after their ‘best by’ date? Or is this just a marketing gimmick, from the companies that produce these foods? As halal-conscious consumers, we must ensure that the foods we consume are not only permissible, but also safe and wholesome. Therefore, we need to educate ourselves on how to become smarter consumers. The concept of the “expiration date” has been deeply embedded within the Islamic faith. In Islam, Muslims are prohibited from consuming certain foods that have become spoiled or rotten. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:  “The one who catches up with the game (he shot) after three days may eat from it, unless it has turned rotten” (Sunan an-Nasa’i 4303) Additionally, Nabīdh is a drink traditionally made from raisins, grapes, or dates steeped in water. If left alone for over 96 hours, it can spoil and become intoxicating depending on the level of fermentation. It was narrated that Sa’eed bin Al-Musayyab said: “Drink juice so long as it does not have any foam.” (Sahih – Sunan an-Nasa’i 5731) It was also narrated that Ibn ‘Abbas said: “Nabīdh of raisins would be made for the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) at night, and he would put it in a water skin and drink it during the next day, the day after, and the day after that. At the end of the third day, he would give it to others to drink, or drink it himself, and if anything was left the following morning, he would pour it away.” (Sahih – Sunan an-Nasa’i 5739) As the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is the epitome of health, his example shows us that we too must be concerned with spoilage of our food and drink. As the food industry advances technologically, labeling has become more confusing. Aside from a bunch of logos and unfamiliar ingredients, it is easy to get lost in translating the different terms of expiration dates. In this article, we guide you through the different meanings behind the various food-date terms and what those terms mean for you. Additionally, we list a few useful tips to keep your produce in the best condition. The Real Meaning Behind Food Dates In the US, food manufacturers are not legally required to put an expiration date on their foods – except for infant formula. While food manufacturers provide “food dating” for various reasons, it is primarily useful for the purposes of easy traceability and inventory management. In other words, retailers will be able to know which products should be displayed first and consumers will be able to assess what to consume first. In addition, when companies disclose food dates, they give the impression of being a credible and trustworthy source. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) does not provide a set of terms or phrases for food dating so the terms used can vary. For example, canned fruits can have a ‘best-by’ date while a carton of eggs has a ‘sell-by’ date and a pre-made salad, for example, utilizes the term ‘use-by.’ While the terms are diverse, we all interpret it as an ‘expiration date.’ As a result, when foods pass the ‘sell-by’ or the ‘use-by’ date, we tend to steer clear from consuming them. Truth be told, while these food dates are helpful, they are not entirely accurate. How to Read Food Dates: Best-before/ Best-by/ Best if used-by date This date is a rough estimate from food producers to guarantee product quality but not safety. These dates are commonly used for foods that may go in your kitchen cabinets or pantry. Foods such as canned goods, cereals, cookies and pasta, may last for more than one or two years. With proper storage, shelf-stable products might still be edible for a few weeks, to months after their best-by date. Sell-by-date The ‘sell-by’ date is the retailers’ way of communicating to the consumer, how long certain foods can be displayed as ‘for sale’. Most perishable products – such as eggs, pasteurized milk, and uncooked meat – will utilize the label ‘sell-by’. For meat products, the USDA suggests using or cooking the meat within 3-5 days after purchase. Freeze-by date A ‘freeze-by’ date is usually stamped on raw red meats, or poultry. This date indicates when meat should be frozen, in order to pro-long its freshness. Use-by date The ‘use-by’ date indicates when certain foods should be consumed, to ensure peak quality. It is usually printed on perishable foods such as pre-made salads and cooked meats. If the ‘use-by’ date has passed, the food is still safe to eat but the quality of the product may diminish slightly. However, it is recommended to not consume foods after the ‘use-by’ date, ideally within 1-2 days. So, are expired foods still safe to eat? With an exception for infant formula, food dating is mostly there for quality, as opposed to food safety. Provided consumers store produce in its ideal storage conditions, food manufacturers guarantee that their products will remain at the peak quality, until the date printed on their packaging. However, once the date has passed, the food quality begins to decrease. For example, if jam or jelly has reached its expiration date it may become slightly discolored; pasta may become hard, and the amount of time it takes for it to cook, may change; cookies may become less crunchy, or taste stale. It is important to understand what different food labels mean. Foods do not necessarily become inedible after the expiration date, and there is a chance that they are still safe to consume. As halal-conscious consumers, we should do our very