Governor Kathy Hochul Hosts Iftar
Blogs Governor Kathy Hochul Hosts Iftar Governor Kathy Hochul Hosts Iftar Honoring Halal Watch World President Imam Mansoor Rafiq Umar Halal Watch World President Speaks at Annual Iftar in New York State Speaking to the congregation of Muslims from all over new york state. We are honored and dignified to be a part of this monumental event.
10 Key Halal Certification Questions
Blogs Certification Questions Answered 10 Key Halal Certification Questions Answered What You Need To Know Before Getting Halal Certified With more than 1.9 billion Muslim consumers around the world, the market of halal products is rapidly growing. At an increasing rate, suppliers are dealing with this heightened demand, and adapting their production lines to become compliant, and accommodate for halal offerings. For the halal-conscious consumer, identifying halal products is necessary. This is only possible with a transparent and clear traceability plan for each product, along with its raw materials. Below are some of the most important questions about halal certification and what to expect ahead of time for your establishment. What does it mean to be Halal certified? What does a Halal certifying agency do, and how much does it cost? What are the requirements for Halal Certification? What are the concerns of halal consumers? What are those things which are prohibited (haram) to come into contact with halal products? How are animals made Halal? If a facility also produces prohibited ingredients, can halal products still be manufactured there? Can a company use a Halal logo on their product without being halal certified? About how long does it take to get certified ? Why do I need Halal Certification? 1. What does it mean to be Halal certified? The term “Halal” comes from the Arabic word “حلال” ( ḥalāl ) which means “permissible”. The Quran classifies food and goods in different categories such as “halal” (permitted)or “haram” (forbidden). For a product to be Halal Certified, it means that it is devoid of any impermissible ingredients, and that it has been processed in a facility that is conducive to maintaining the integrity of the halal status. Ingredients such as alcohol, pork, and other animal derivatives are major red flags. Obtaining a halal certificate provides credibility to your establishment, which in turn gives confidence to the halal-conscious consumer. *Halal Watch World now offers training courses that teach you everything you need to know about halal, certification, and how to become halal conscious.* 2. What does a Halal certifying agency do, and how much does it cost? Halal certifying agencies investigate companies to determine whether or not their products meet the halal standard. The ingredients, suppliers, and production facility are the main points of concern. The production facility must be capable of maintaining the integrity of the halal status of the product from the point of entry to the point of departure. Once all hazards are mitigated within the facility, the certification agency provides a seal of halal certification. Absent this detailed and thorough review, the product cannot be certified. View our pricing calculator , or read our article on the cost for halal certification. 3. What are the requirements for Halal Certification? Halal certification agencies focuses on 4 core principles when fulfilling their service: Sanitation Traceability Integrity Composition Which make up the acronym STIC . These core principles govern all of the following halal environments: Manufacturers Restaurants Livestock Processors Kitchens Distributors Grocery Stores If you own, manage, or operate one of the above halal environments, then this information pertains to you, so listen up! Our robust requirements checklist helps you get closer to your goal of being ready for an audit. Being sure of your compliance is an important aspect of gaining a halal certificate. Below are a few preliminary questions to consider: Sanitation: “Are any tools or equipment being utilized for both halal and non-halal products?” All traces of smell, taste, and color must be removed from the apparatuses that involve both halal and non-halal products. These measures must be documented and recorded via a sanitation standard operating procedure. These measures must prevents cross contamination of any kind. Traceability: “Do I have a system of tracking and tracing of the product within the facility?” Halal producing facilities must involve tracing measures that ensure halal products are accounted for from start to finish. Facilities may institute color coded tags, or utilize computer software to support and enhance this effort. “Are the raw materials, or ingredients of my halal product sourced from a company that has a halal certificate or statement of halal compliance?” Each supplier must disclose all relevant information regarding their ingredients and manufacturing practices to the certification body. Integrity: “Is my facility fit to produce a clean ( taahir ) product?” Government and industry standards such as GMP, HACCP, ISO, and SQF are all positive supplements to have in your portfolio as a business, even though all are not required for halal certification purposes. “Does my facility have an HIP program developed?” The HIP program is developed under the guidelines of the halal certifying body. The program outlines Halal Area Risk Management (HARM) locations within the facility, deemed by an auditor as potentially problematic. Composition: “Does the facility utilize any ingredients that are prohibited?” It is essential that animal derived ingredients used in halal products be sourced from halal certified suppliers, or remain completely separate from halal products. See our full list of prohibited items to be sure none are a part of your product. 4. What are the concerns of halal consumers? It is essential for the halal consumer to identify the product they are buying in retail stores as being produced according to halal dietary restrictions. Halal consumers do not know if the ingredients names have been masked, or considered “proprietary” and not disclosed. Consumers do not know if the facility produces other products that are considered to be contaminants, which must not come into contact with halal products. Halal consumers rely upon the insight, knowledge base, and expertise of a certifying agency to do the intensive work required. This ensures that the product is permissible to eat without question. Halal certification alleviates the heavy burden involved in determining if a product can be utilized. Thus, when the halal certification seal is found on a product, the consumer finds confidence via the trust of the organization that backs it. 5. What are those things which are prohibited
Halal Vegan Muslim
Blogs The “Halal Vegan Muslim” Can a Muslim also be a Vegan/Vegetarian? When we hear the word ‘vegan’ or ‘vegetarian,’ it might carry a positive connotation, warm vibes with a ‘kumbaya’ attitude: passive and peace-loving. Or, maybe it conjures up feelings and images of frolicking in nature with the wild and animal rights advocation. For the Muslim, this may appear harmless and non-contradictory. After all, it was our Prophet (ﷺ) who said, “May God curse the one who disfigures an animal.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i 4442). So how should a Muslim view veganism and vegetarianism? Today, we will explore the ideological, physical, and spiritual implications of veganism and vegetarianism from the Islamic perspective. We will touch upon the reality of these two concepts and uncover their true meanings. What is veganism? Veganism is the practice of abstaining from animal products, particularly in diet, and an associated philosophy that rejects the commodity status of animals. An individual who follows this diet (or philosophy) is known as a ‘vegan.’ Instead of meat products, dairy, and even honey, they eat various plant foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and products made from these foods. What is vegetarianism? Vegetarianism is the practice of abstaining from the consumption of meat and abstaining from animal by-products. A vegetarian is a person who does not eat meat and sometimes other animal products, especially for moral, or health reasons. Having understood the basic concept, let’s first discuss the two ‘isms.’ Ideologically, both concepts involve the abstinence from animal products due to the belief that the utility of animals and their derivatives is harmful, wrong, evil, unfair, or bad. It is also considered to be wrong to mistreat an animal, and to take its life. Ideological alignment From the Islamic perspective, many of these concepts are agreeable. It is also considered sinful and wrong to harm and mistreat an animal, and even to take the life of an animal, however, only without a valid reason, and it only becomes acceptable when certain conditions are applied. This difference will be further explored later in the article. The terms “kind” and “humane” from the Islamic, vegan, and vegetarian perspectives all align. According to the Quran, the kind treatment of animals is a must, and it is a grave sin to mistreat any creature of God. 1. Animals must be treated kindly The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “There is a meritorious reward for kindness to every living creature.” (Riyad as-Salihin 126) 2. Animals must be cared for The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “A man saw a dog eating mud from (the severity of) thirst. So, that man took a shoe (and filled it) with water and kept on pouring the water for the dog until it quenched its thirst. So Allah approved of his deed and made him enter Paradise.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 173) 3. Animals must not be hunted for sport or game “The Messenger of Allah cursed those who take anything that has a soul as a target.” (Sahih ) (Sunan an-Nasa’i 4441) 4. Animals must not be tortured The Messenger of God (ﷺ) said, “A woman was punished in Hell because of a cat which she had confined until it died. She did not give it to eat or to drink when it was confined, nor did she free it so that it might eat the vermin of the earth.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim) Islamic Humane Slaughter Although there is a general agreement across each concept, the stark difference lies in the critical area of ending an animal’s life. Vegans and vegetarians do not accept the killing of animals for consumption, yet Islam makes provision for it. Due to the lack of agreement in this area, there have been multiple debates and discussions. However, it is helpful to discuss this from a philosophical perspective to access the foundational truths present on each side. The slaughter process itself is quite detailed and extensive. It takes time to learn the process, understand the rulings, and perfect the practice. Some of the conditions for the Islamic slaughter method are that the animal must be alive, healthy, fed clean foods, gently treated, and God’s name must be pronounced before its death, signifying that the taking of the life of an animal is serious. The slaughtering method should not be excessive, and it is ideal to only pass the knife over the animal 1 or 2 times. The animal should be spared from any unnecessary suffering. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Verily Allah has prescribed Ihsan in all things. So if you kill, then kill well; and if you slaughter, then slaughter well. Let each one of you sharpen his blade and let him spare suffering to the animal he slaughters” (Muslim) Philosophically, Islam is a purpose-driven religion; actions are performed with purpose. So long as the purpose is within the confines of God’s word, and the act itself is according to His law, then the action is not punishable at least and is rewarded at best. God has entrusted His earthly creation to human beings. Hence, the act of slaughter and consumption of animals is not in and of itself problematic. In fact, it is an act of worship for both the animal and the human being. The animal fulfills its purpose when milked, sheered for wool, skinned for tanning, or slaughtered and consumed. Just as an employee serves a function during their time fulfilling a role in a business setting. “Do you not see that Allah has subjected to you whatever is in the earth as well as the ships ˹that˺ sail through the sea by His command? He keeps the sky from falling down on the earth except by His permission. Surely Allah is Ever Gracious and Most Merciful to humanity.” [22:65] “(12) And ˹He is the One˺ Who created all ˹things in˺ pairs, and made for you ships and animals to ride. (13) So that you may sit firmly on their backs, and remember your
Statutory vs NGO Halal Certification
Blogs Statutory vs NGO Statutory vs NGO Halal Certification Understanding Halal CertificationNew Paragraph Halal certification is a process by which food products are inspected and approved for consumption by Muslims in accordance with Islamic law. Halal certification ensures that the food being consumed is permissible according to Islamic guidelines and is not prepared or processed using prohibited substances or methods. There are two main types of halal certification: statutory and non-governmental organization (NGO) certification. Types of Halal Certification Statutory Halal Certification Statutory halal certification is a type of certification mandated by law and administered by a government agency or a regulatory body. Statutory halal certification is typically mandatory for certain food products or products sold in certain countries. Statutory halal certification is often seen as more credible and trustworthy, as it is backed by the government and is subject to stricter oversight and regulation. Benefits and Drawbacks of Statutory Halal CertificationNew Paragraph One of the main benefits of statutory halal certification is that it provides a high level of assurance to consumers that the food products being consumed comply with Islamic guidelines. Statutory halal certification is also typically seen as more objective and unbiased, as the certification process is overseen by a government agency or regulatory body rather than a private organization. However, statutory halal certification can also have some drawbacks. One concern is that the certification process may need to be faster and more convenient, as it is subject to government bureaucracy and red tape. In addition, statutory halal certification can be costly, as companies may need to pay fees to obtain or maintain their certification status. NGO Halal Certification On the other hand, NGO halal certification is a type of halal certification that a non-governmental organization administers. NGO halal certification is typically voluntary and is not mandated by law. NGO halal certification is often seen as more flexible and adaptable, as it is subject to a different level of government oversight and regulation. Benefits and Drawbacks of NGO Halal Certification One of the main benefits of NGO halal certification is that it can be more responsive to the needs of the industry and the changing requirements of the halal market. NGO halal certification can also be more flexible regarding the types of products that can be certified, as the same strict regulations as statutory halal certification do not bind it. However, NGO halal certification can also have some drawbacks. One concern is that some consumers may not see it as trustworthy or credible, as the government does not back it. In addition, NGO halal certification can be subject to conflicts of interest, as the certifying organizations may be funded or influenced by the companies they certify. In conclusion, both statutory and NGO halal certification have their pros and cons. Statutory halal certification provides a high level of assurance to consumers that the food products being consumed comply with Islamic guidelines but can be slow and costly. NGO halal certification is more flexible and adaptable but may not be considered trustworthy or credible by some consumers. Ultimately, the choice between statutory and NGO halal accreditation will depend on the consumer and industry’s needs and preferences. At Halal Watch World, we specialize in providing comprehensive halal certification services that cater to the diverse needs of industries worldwide. Take the next step towards securing halal certification for your products by partnering with Halal Watch World. Our experienced team will guide you through the certification process, ensuring compliance with Islamic guidelines and enhancing the credibility of your brand among Muslim consumers. Contact Halal Watch World today and let us help you gain a competitive edge by obtaining trusted halal certification. Khadija Rafiqi is a graduate of Russell Sage College. She is currently doing her Master’s in Biomedical Sciences, focusing on Cancer research. She spends her free time doing Arabic calligraphy and DIYs.
Devastating 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake
Blogs Devastating 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake Devastating 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake: Turkey & Syria Call for Help Muslim Community of Bethlehem Pushing Massive Donation Efforts A massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake rocked the area of East Turkey on February 6th, 2023. Unwarned of the coming devastation, an area the size of Great Brittan faced intense tremors, leveling buildings, and killing thousands. The latest estimate being 20,000 dead, with another 80,000 injured. Aid and support has been pouring in over the past few days from around the world. Halal Watch World President, and Imam of the Muslim Community of Bethlehem spoke on the issue just after the Friday prayer on February 11th with news reporters from WNYT channel 13 news. Local news media reached out to Imam Mansoor Rafiq Umar of the Muslim Community of Bethlehem to comment on the efforts being made to support the people of Turkey & Syria. Many 10’s of thousands have died, and more will be announced in the coming days. As the devastation mounts, we are supporting local clothing, and food drives to help others who need it most. “It has warmed my heart to see people from all faiths supporting this effort”, he said. “We are blessed to see help and assistance pouring in from around the world, both Muslim and non-Muslim efforts. We hope that non-Muslims are cognizant of the dietary restrictions we believe in. Non-Muslims should be careful not to send items that are not able to be used, such as plastics and medicines made with pork product, and foods with animal derivatives. We want to ensure that the Halal certification needs of the people are also respected.” You may support this effort in the following way: GoFundMe Earthquake Support Embrace Relief Helping Hands for relief and development Islamic Relief USA We will continue to update as work continues.
Enforcing Halal Laws in New York
Blogs Enforcing Halal Laws in New York Enforcing Halal Laws in New York: The Halal Foods Protection Act Halal Certification Mandates in New York State New York State has been at the forefront of enacting laws to protect the rights of religious groups regarding their dietary restrictions. In recent years, New York has begun running its Kosher and Halal Law Enforcement Program to regulate the sale and distribution of Kosher and Halal food products. The program ensures that businesses comply with New York State laws regarding the sale of Halal and Kosher food products. The history of Halal laws in the United States dates back to the 1970s when Muslim Americans began organizing mosques. The first state to enact a Halal law was New Jersey in 2000, followed by other states like New York, which enacted similar laws to protect consumers and ensure the authenticity of Halal food sold in their respective states. In 2005, New York passed the Halal Foods Protection Act to regulate the sale of Halal food in the state. The Halal Foods Protection Act requires all food labeled as Halal to meet specific standards and be certified by a recognized Halal certifying agency or organization. Businesses that sell Halal products must obtain Halal certification from a recognized agency to comply with the law. Halal Watch World, based out of Albany, New York, is recognized by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets as a registered Halal certification authority in the state. They offer a comprehensive certification process that ensures products meet the standards set by the Halal Foods Protection Act. Halal Watch World is accredited by many recognized Halal organizations and offers certification services at a reasonable cost. Businesses that sell Halal products must comply with the Halal Foods Protection Act to avoid facing significant fines. According to § 201-h. Notice of violation, under section 6, failure to comply, businesses can face fines of up to $10,000 per violation. This means that if a company sells products as Halal without certification, they will face severe fines. Companies may receive a letter from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to register as a food establishment. This registration ensures that the department has up-to-date information on the business, including its location and products sold. If your business receives a letter to register, Halal Watch World’s compliance department can assist you in the registration process. You can contact them at 877-425-2599 or visit their website at www.halalwatchworld.org to get started. Enforcing the Halal Foods Protection Act is critical to maintaining the integrity of Halal food and protecting consumers from fraudulent activity. By complying with New York State law and obtaining Halal certification from a recognized agency like Halal Watch World, businesses can ensure that their products are genuine and meet the standards set by the Halal Foods Protection Act. The Kosher and Halal Law Enforcement Program plays a crucial role in ensuring that businesses comply with the law and protect the rights of religious groups regarding their dietary restrictions.
Is Popeyes Chicken Halal?
Blogs Is Popeyes Chicken Halal? Is Popeyes Chicken Halal? Verdict: Official Statement All US Locations The Non-Halal Status of All Fried Foods at Popeyes Summary: Popeyes is not halal in any and all US locations due to the usage of non-halal beef tallow in the oil used for frying. This judgement applies to all fried foods in all of its restaurants. Popeyes Chicken, is a subsidiary of Restaurant Brands International inc (RBI), who owns other popular fast food chains such as Burger King, and Tim Hortons. Popeyes is renowned for its delicious Louisiana-style fried chicken. A popular rumor indicating the halal nature of Popeyes is commonly purported in Muslim communities. Many Muslims have come to believe that Popeyes chicken is halal because the chicken is sourced from a halal-certified slaughterhouse. This has been confirmed as factual for many Popeyes chicken restaurants, however, this does not indicate to the halal status of any other ingredients involved. The confusion around the halal status of Popeyes chicken has left many halal-conscious consumers uncertain about whether they can consume it or not. This article aims to demystify and provide conclusive evidence regarding the halal status of Popeyes chicken, so that Muslims and halal-conscious consumers can make informed decisions about their food choices. The Chicken Our team painstakingly embarked upon an investigatory mission to uncover the truth about the halal status of popeyes chicken. First, we began with the chicken itself in order to determine if it had been sourced from a halal certified vendor. We found that many popeyes chicken outlets purchase from Prime Source Foods, a vendor who procures products from various locations. In an email, we asked if the chicken specifically for popeyes restaurants was indeed sourced from a Halal vendor. We received response that indeed, any popeyes chicken that procures from Prime Source Foods is sourced from Pilgrims Pride, a HalalCo, Inc certified facility This was our primary check, and gave us the green light to further investigate the ingredients that go into the breading. Popeyes, however, does not share this information on their website, which is a red flag for the halal-conscious consumer. Although we were unable to explore this area of Popeyes better, we uncovered a final piece of evidence that was damning enough to undermine any notion of the foods halal nature. The Oil We reached out to Popeyes corporate headquarters for an official answer to a pressing question: The frying oil. Some rumors had spread indicating that the oil was not regular vegetable oil. So we asked the question, “Does the oil contain beef or fat…?”. The conversation is below. The email reads as follows: Simone (Popeyes) Apr 5, 2023, 1:52 PM EDT Hello Mansoor, Thank you for your patience while we reviewed your inquiry. All fried menu items at our Popeyes US restaurants are cooked using Beef Tallow. The information provided regarding our food is as complete as possible at the time of this email, and is based on ingredient lists provided by our suppliers. Variations may occur depending on the season, supplier and/or product preparation at your local restaurant. Please also note that normal kitchen operations can involve shared cooking, preparation areas and utensils, and the possibility exists that your food may come in contact with other food products, including other allergens and ingredients. We recommend that you always consult your healthcare provider for questions regarding your diet. Please let us know if you need any additional information or have further questions or concerns. As always, thank you for being a valued Popeyes guest! Best, SimoneGuest Care Agent As is clearly notated from the above official communication from the Popeyes rep, all fried foods at Popeyes Chicken restaurants are fried in oils derived from beef tallow as a standard across the US. This beef tallow is not sourced from any halal certified establishment, and even affects fries, pies, fish, or other foods that come into contact with it. We also did our due diligence, and called 20+ restaurants across the country, from New York, to California, to Texas, to Florida, and in between. Our research team was given express confirmation that the frying oil used is made from beef tallow shortening. The only restaurant that mentioned the oil was vegetable, quickly hung up on us when we asked follow-up questions for confirmation. Any derived ingredients sourced from animals not slaughtered according to Islamic ritual rites is deemed as najas (filth). Najaasa also includes pig, urine, and excrement. In other words, cooking with najas, such as non-halal beef tallow, is tantamount to cooking your food with urine. *Gross!*. Scriptural Evidence The Quran clearly states the importance of consuming food that is tayyib (i.e., not najas), or pure, as mentioned in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:5): “This day [all] good foods have been made lawful, and the food of those who were given the Scripture is lawful for you and your food is lawful for them…” This verse emphasizes that Muslims are only allowed to consume food that is considered good and pure. According to the HWW Certification Methodology & Analysis Report 2021, P.11, it states: “Ahlul Kitaab – The People of the Book Allah says in the Quran: “This day [all] good foods have been made lawful, and the food of those who were given the Scripture is lawful for you and your food is lawful for them.” 20 Ibn Kathir, the great mufassirin (exegete) in his tafsir al Quran (exegesis of the Quran) states: “When the most high mentioned “And the foods of those who have taken the book are permissible for you all”, Ibn abas, abu amam Ibn `Abbas, Abu Umamah, Mujahid, Sa`id bin Jubayr, `Ikrimah, `Ata’, Al-Hasan, Makhul, Ibrahim An-Nakha`i, As-Suddi and Muqatil bin Hayyan stated that Allah SWT means by that their slaughtered animals. About this matter, all of the scholars clarify that their slaughtered is permissible for the Muslims [only] because they believe in the impermissibility of slaughtering for other than Allah, and they do not mention upon their slaughtered (animals) except
Halal Certification: The New Normal For 21st Century Business
Blogs Halal Certification Halal Certification: The New Normal For 21st Century Business Is Your Company Prepared? The world has seen a considerable change in the landscape of food and beverage consumption over the past decade, with an increased focus on religious dietary laws, particularly Halal. As a concept originating from Islamic dietary laws, Halal has been transformed into a worldwide phenomenon, deeply influencing global markets and consumption patterns. This transition isn’t confined to the Muslim population alone. More and more non-Muslim consumers are being drawn towards Halal-certified products, significantly changing the perception of Halal from a foreign, misunderstood concept to an acknowledged and respected aspect of global food culture. An Exploding Market and a Rising Consumer Base The surge in the Halal market isn’t merely incidental but a reflection of the growing Muslim population, which, according to a study by Pew Research Center, is expected to reach 3.05 billion by 2060. With these demographic shifts, the Halal market is projected to grow exponentially. The global Halal food and beverage market size alone was valued at $1.8 trillion in 2020 and is expected to reach $2.6 trillion by 2023, as per a report from the State of the Global Islamic Economy. Halal and Kosher Certification: A Comparative View Kosher certification, a similar practice in the Jewish community, has been prevalent in the food industry for a considerable amount of time. Despite the global Jewish population being much smaller than the Muslim population, many companies have sought kosher certification to maintain their market credibility. According to the Pew Research Center, the global Jewish population is estimated to be about 14.7 million as of 2020. Yet, this hasn’t hindered the widespread adoption of kosher certification, setting a precedent for how religious dietary laws can shape the food industry. Businesses recognize the importance of kosher certification as a signifier of quality and a means to build trust with consumers. As a result, the kosher food market is thriving, with an estimated worth of around $24.6 billion in 2020 and an expected growth to $26 billion by 2023. The sentiment towards Halal certification should be viewed in a similar light. With a global Muslim population expected to reach 3.05 billion by 2060 [^1^], the potential for the Halal market vastly outstrips the kosher market. Yet, the global Halal food and beverage market, while significantly larger at $1.8 trillion in 2020, still has enormous potential for growth [^2^]. Thus, it is crucial that the importance and potential impact of Halal certification be recognized and valued as much as Kosher certification. If companies aim to maintain credibility and expand their reach, obtaining a Halal certification should be seen as an imperative step. Changing Perceptions: From Misunderstanding to Appreciation The perception of Halal, particularly among non-Muslims, has undergone a sea change. Historically, many non-Muslim consumers viewed Halal as a foreign concept or associated it with misinformed stereotypes. A prominent instance of this was when certain groups in Australia incorrectly portrayed Halal certification as supporting terrorism. These claims were thoroughly debunked, reinforcing that Halal certification is simply a verification process ensuring products meet specific dietary laws. Today, the perception has radically shifted, with non-Muslim consumers increasingly viewing Halal as a symbol of quality assurance, hygiene, and ethical consumerism. This shift reflects a broader trend of consumers seeking transparency and accountability in food production. Halal certification represents these values, fostering a sense of trust between the consumer and the product. Halal Certification: An Avenue for Business Expansion The rise in demand for Halal-certified products has seen companies respond by seeking Halal certification to serve this expanding market. It’s not just about meeting religious dietary requirements; it’s about recognizing and catering to a sizable, previously underserved market. Dirk Mampe of German chemicals company BASF said, “There is a trend that these halal products are being requested more and more, and the importance of being able to supply them is increasing.” By obtaining Halal certification, these businesses are not only expanding their market reach but also building a relationship of trust with a large customer base. Halal Watch World: Trust and Credibility in Halal Certification One of the leading players in this transformative journey is Halal Watch World. With a credible reputation, years of experience in international servicing, and an in-depth understanding of Halal certification processes, Halal Watch World has become the go-to organization for businesses aiming to navigate the Halal market. Its robust certification process provides reassurance to both businesses and consumers that products are genuinely Halal, meeting stringent quality standards. In this rapidly expanding and increasingly important market, Halal Watch World is perfectly positioned to guide businesses into the future. The rising demand for Halal-certified products, paired with Halal Watch World’s commitment to integrity and quality, ensures businesses can confidently serve this growing consumer base. With the continued growth and increasing global acceptance of Halal certification, the future is bright. The market is set to continue its expansion, driven by a growing consumer base and changing perceptions of Halal as not just a religious dietary law but a signifier of quality, accountability, and ethical consumerism.
Machine Slaughtering is ACTUALLY Halal
Blogs Machine Slaughtering is ACTUALLY Halal Truth: “Machine Slaughtering” is ACTUALLY Halal Rebutting the naysayers, and setting the record straight regarding mechanical aid in processing Halal poultry n America, there is a going narrative that warns Muslims and halal-conscious consumers to be warry of something called “Machine Slaughtering”. It screams of a vacuous process, mindless machines aimlessly walking about chopping off the heads of chickens at random. “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” plays on repeat over loud speaker, reminiscent of a bad 1950’s sci-fi classic. A method so sinister that you, as a person who cares about what they consume shouldn’t dare go near with a 10-foot pole. Imams and Muftis alike flash warning signs so bright that the general constituents ask “Is the beef hand slaughtered or machine slaughtered?”, a question so erroneously based that I wonder if it should be taken seriously at all (there is no such thing as machine slaughtering for cows). It’s gotten so bad that here in America we have a growing sentiment, that halal in some ways has lost its prestige. Nowadays, you would be remise to label your meat as halal alone. No sir. The product must be “Zabiha halal” or else we “shouldn’t eat it”, “it’s fake halal”, “not genuinely pious”. We’ve heard it all, and we’ve had enough. It is time that the truth of the matter be addressed head on, and the misconceptions corrected. As a representative of the Halal certification industry, I am burdened with the task of not only deeply investigating companies that make products for the halal conscious consumer, but also learning and teaching. It is our duty to be knowledgeable, studied, well informed, and have a deep understanding scripture, as well as those matters that our society faces. This is why today, we will be tackling the topic of “Machine Slaughtering” to finally descope the issue for Muslim Americans, and others beyond. Difference of Opinion: Ikhtilaaf First, it is important to note that in this matter there is ikhtilaaf (difference of opinion amongst the jurists), as is the case with nearly all contemporary matters. Typically, this also means that there will be a majority view and a minority view. The majority of Islamic jurists, or schools of thought (maddhab) may opine one way or the other, and depending upon the context in which we live, one opinion may be better suited than the other. Therefore, this is an exercise to prove to the laymen that not only is mechanical aided slaughtering permissible, but in the modern context, afdhal (more preferred). Officially, three main opinions are by jurists the world over in relation to this matter. They are as follows: 1. (Majority View) The slaughter of an animal with mechanical aid is permissible, so long as all of the conditions for slaughter are met. 2. (Minority View) The slaughter of an animal with mechanical aid is permissible, but only the first animal slaughtered fulfills the conditions, and no subsequent animals fulfill the conditions 3. (Minority View) The slaughter of an animal with mechanical aid does not fulfill all conditions, therefore, is not permissible. In light of the fact that the matter is contemporary (meaning, no examples exist in Islamic history), and that no ijma’ (consensus) exists amongst the scholars, we should take a measured approach and NOT disrespect any other opinions or viewpoints. The correct answer will always lay with Allah SWT all mighty, and we as his wakeel (agents) on this earth are struggling to find the correct answer. If the derived conclusion is right by Allah SWT, then we are rewarded doubly. Yet, if proper ijtihad (scholarly study and struggle) is applied in a sincere way, yet the individual scholar still does not derive the correct answer in the eyes of Allah SWT, then there is still one reward. No proper scholar would ever berate, tarnish, smear, or attack another scholar for their opinion which has both sound and valid justifications. We do not believe this approach is Islamic, nor wise, and it only creates unnecessary infighting, marring the halal industry. This is wrong by Allah, and anyone who espouses this behavior must refrain from doing so. The conditions of the Islamic method of slaughter Regardless of the slaughter method position one holds, the primary question to solve for is the prerequisites for the Islamic method of slaughter. If the conditions are fulfilled, then the slaughter is considered halal. If the conditions are not fulfilled, then the slaughter is deemed Haram. So, what are the conditions of the Islamic method of slaughter? 1. Slaughterer must be a Muslim, or a professed Jew or Christian 2. Intention must be present for the specific slaughtering tool and animal 3. Animal must be alive 4. The tasmiyyah (Slaughtering in the name of Allah) must be mentioned 5. Severing at least 2 of the 4 ventricles (Trachea and Esophagus)[1] 6. If the slaughterer is a Jew or a Christian, all conditions including mentioning the tasmiyyah apply. Although it is permissible to have a Jew or a Christian perform the slaughter, abattoirs hire Muslims to perform the process of slaughter due to the knowledge, experience, and added level of scrutiny for those products. For a Kitabi to perform the halal slaughter, a rigorous vetting process must be undertaken to determine a number of factors, such as the history of their belief, their trust worthiness, and many others. Additionally, some schools of thought only allow a Jew or Christian to slaughter for halal if they are able to trace their lineage back to their prophet, which is practically impossible. To help simplify things, a Muslim slaughterman is the easiest choice for halal process. The “Machine Slaughter” Process So, how does it work? 1. A Muslim slaughterman stands at the activation panel of the mechanical tool 2. He or she makes their intention to slaughter a batch of birds with the mechanical device 3. Once the intention is established, the tasmiyyah is
Halal Meets Beauty
Blogs Halal Meets Beauty Halal Meets Beauty: Mora Cosmetics’ Triumph in Achieving Halal Certification A Year-Long Journey with Halal Watch World Culminates in a Landmark Achievement for Inclusive Cosmetics Minara El-Rahman with Mora Cosmetics product A beacon in the cosmetics world has just shone a little brighter: Mora Cosmetics, after a rigorous year-long journey, has successfully completed the Halal certification process, a testament to their dedication to ethics and excellence. With Halal Watch World’s unwavering commitment in ensuring that no pork product, animal derivatives, alcohols, or anything deemed as najis (filth), this feat signifies a landmark achievement in the beauty industry. In a world where cosmetics meets ethics, Minara El-Rahman of Mora Cosmetics emerges as a trailblazer, bridging the gap between faith and beauty. We recently had the privilege of speaking with Minara, exploring the heart and soul of Mora Cosmetics and the profound significance of their halal journey. Opening our conversation, Minara described the essence of her journey with Mora Cosmetics. She recounted, “The journey started when I was actually a young girl… I just always would try the latest and greatest and I would never really see myself reflected in the marketing materials for these beauty companies… as a young person to not see yourself reflected in marketing campaigns, really kind of makes you motivated to be the first.” Beyond representation, Minara emphasized the importance of halal practices in beauty. She reflected, “And as a practicing Muslim, it was important to me to always consume halal products.” This curiosity expanded to cosmetics, leading her to wonder, “Why am I not using something that I know is either vegan or halal?” Yet the road to success was peppered with challenges. Being a hijabi founder, Minara grappled with unique hurdles, sharing, “As a woman who wears a hijab, I think that people kind of view you in a different light… And so I would find that when I would reach out to even vendors or laboratories… I wasn’t being taken seriously.” Minara El-Rahman with Cheif Creative Officer Jasmine Dayal On the ethos of Mora Cosmetics, Minara remarked, “So for me, I don’t want to do anything unless I do it with excellence… We know that in our faith, there’s this concept known as Ihsan, which is excellence.” This is reflective in their efforts in gaining the Halal certification, proving their commitment not just in words, but in tangible actions. On their decision to pursue the certification, Minara emphasized, “While we can always say that we are halal, having that certification gives the customer the peace of mind of knowing that we have gone through the rigorous work that needed to be done on the back end to ensure that the products… are indeed halal.” Minara expressed her broader vision for Mora Cosmetics, emphasizing inclusivity and representation, “For us, we want to make our products as inclusive as possible… but we also wanted to introduce Halal.” The Muslim community, she revealed, has shown great support: “I think that the Muslim community has been very welcoming… And now that we can announce that we’re Halal Certified, I feel like there will be even more support behind the brand.” With a commitment to the environment, sustainability, and ethics, Minara believes in making informed choices: “People, when they actually do the research… they’ll know that it’s clean and sustainable. It may be a little bit more money but it’s worth the investment.” Ending with a note on their social responsibility, Minara concluded, “We always make sure that we invest in charities with our profits. We always make sure that we’re doing everything with the right intention.” Through their partnership with Halal Watch World and their unwavering commitment to excellence, Mora Cosmetics sets a precedent in the world of beauty. As we look ahead, it’s evident that with brands like Mora leading the way, the beauty industry is poised for an ethical revolution.
