Halal food: The ‘food science’ behind it

Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by Partha Protim Choudhury

In today’s multicultural world, the significance of dietary practices extends beyond mere sustenance. For millions of Muslims, adhering to the principles of Halal food consumption is not just a dietary choice but an essential aspect of their religious identity. The term ‘Halal’ refers to what is permissible in Islamic law, encompassing not only food but also various aspects of daily life. Conversely, foods that are prohibited are termed ‘Haram’. Understanding the rules, restrictions, scientific benefits of halal foods offer insights into the profound connection between faith and food in Islamic culture.

What is the origin of the Halal and Haram food concept?

The concept of halal and haram in food originates from Islamic teachings and principles. In Islam, Halal refers to what Islamic law deems permissible or lawful, while Haram denotes what it considers sin. These guidelines derive primarily from the Quran, the holy book of Islam which encompasses the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.

The Quran mentions certain foods that are halal, such as the meat of animals slaughtered in the name of Allah. Additionally, the Quran prohibits the consumption of certain foods, that have died from causes other than proper slaughter. Overall, the Halal and Haram food concept serves as a dietary guideline for Muslims, promoting not only physical health but also spiritual well-being.

Halal Food 

Halal, an Arabic term, signifies ‘lawful,’ ‘legal,’ ‘permissible,’ or ‘legitimate’. It denotes that the food consumed by Muslims is generally considered lawful or permitted unless explicitly categorised as haram or forbidden in the Holy Quran and Hadith. Adhering to a set of dietary regulations outlined in these religious texts ensures good well-being and spiritual adherence. This dietary list underscores the importance of consuming only what is deemed permissible by Islamic law, promoting not just physical health but also spiritual purity and obedience to divine commandments.

What are the health benefits of halal food?

The health benefits of consuming halal food extend beyond religious considerations and encompass various aspects such as cleanliness, animal welfare, prohibition of harmful substances and nutritional value. Here are some key health benefits:

• Cleanliness and Hygiene: Halal food production emphasizes cleanliness and hygiene throughout the entire process, from sourcing to distribution. This adherence to food hygiene standards helps minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses caused by contamination.
• Animal Welfare: Halal food production requires humane treatment of animals, ensuring swift and humane slaughter methods. Research indicates that stress-free treatment of animals before slaughter results in higher quality meat and lower levels of stress hormones.
• Prohibition of Harmful Substances: Halal dietary guidelines forbid the consumption of substances harmful to human health, such as alcohol and pork. Avoiding these substances reduces the risk of associated health conditions like liver damage, addiction, and parasitic infestations.
• Nutritional Value: Halal foods, especially those from permissible and natural sources, offer high nutritional value. Islamic dietary regulations promote a balanced diet rich in important nutrients, vitamins, and minerals necessary for optimum health.
• Higher Levels of Essential Amino Acids: Studies have shown that halal meat obtained from animals raised following halal standards contains higher levels of essential amino acids, indicating greater nutritional value.

Overall, the consumption of halal foods not only provides a safer and healthier option but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards animals. It offers a holistic approach to nutrition, promoting well-being and sustainability.

Are natural food products like fruits and vegetables also categorized as Halal?

Yes, natural food products like fruits and vegetables are generally ‘halal’ in Islam. The concept of ‘Halal’ primarily applies to food and encompasses anything that is permissible or lawful according to Islamic teachings. Fruits and vegetables are not subject to the same guidelines as meat products in terms of slaughter and preparation. Muslims consider fruits and vegetables Halal for consumption as long as no prohibited substances contaminate or mix with them.

What is the list of halal foods?

The following list includes cattle meat, poultry, oil, preservative and seafood prepared according to halal guidelines.

List of halal cattle meat

The Shariah, delivered by the Prophet Muhammad, discerns between permissible and forbidden animals for consumption.

List of halal poultry meats

Halal poultry meat refers to poultry products that are permissible in Islamic laws, ensuring they are permissible for consumption by Muslims. This includes chicken, turkey, duck, and other poultry varieties slaughtered using halal methods.

List of halal oils

Here’s a table listing some common halal oil which are allowed according to Islamic laws:

List oh halal food preservatives 

Here’s a table listing some common halal food preservatives and their corresponding codes:

List of halal sea foods

Halal seafood encompasses a variety of aquatic products that are permissible for consumption by Muslims according to Islamic dietary laws.

How to identify a Halal food? Who gives the certification?

In India, Halal certification is typically provided by various halal certification bodies that operate within the country. Some of the well-known organisations that offer Halal certification services in India include:

• Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind: This is one of the oldest and largest Islamic organisations in India.
• Halal India Pvt Ltd: Halal India is a recognized certification body that offers Halal certification services.
• Halal Certification Services India Pvt Ltd: HCS is prominent certification body that provides Halal certification services to businesses and organisations.
• Halal Trust: Halal Trust is an organisation that promotes Halal practices in India. It offers certification services for food products, restaurants, and catering services.

These are just a few examples of Halal certification bodies operating in India. Businesses seeking Halal certification can choose from various organisations based on their specific requirements and preferences. It’s important for businesses to select a reputable halal certification body.

Haram food

Haram food in Islamic dietary laws includes pork, alcohol, carnivorous animals, and improperly slaughtered meat. Avoiding these foods is a religious duty for Muslims, promoting both physical health and spiritual purity. It reflects principles of cleanliness, obedience, and mindfulness in eating habits.

Which food is Haram according to Islam?

Forbidden foods in Islam include carrion, blood, pork, meat not cut properly, and that which is dedicated to Allah. This prohibition ensures consumption of only lawful and pure foods.

• Alcohol and Alcoholic Beverages: This includes all types of alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine, spirits, and liqueurs.
• Blood and Blood By-Products: Consumption of blood from any animal, including blood sausages and blood pudding, is prohibited.
• Carnivorous Animals and Birds of Prey: Animals that hunt with their claws or teeth, such as lions, tigers, and eagles, are haram for consumption.
• Gelatin Derived from Haram Sources: Gelatin made from pork, or any other haram animal is not permissible.
• Lard and Pork Products: Pork meat and its by-products, including bacon, ham, and lard, are strictly prohibited.
• Meat from Animals Not Slaughtered According to Islamic Guidelines: Meat from animals that are not slaughtered in the name of Allah (God) or are not slaughtered in a humane manner is considered haram.
• Food Containing Haram Ingredients or Additives: Any food or drink containing haram ingredients or additives, such as alcohol-based flavorings or extracts, fall under this category.
• Substance that Alters Consciousness: Substances that cause intoxication or alter one’s state of mind are prohibited.

Being mindful of these prohibitions helps Muslims ensure that their dietary choices align with Islamic principles.

Why some products are haram according to Islam?

In 2018, research was conducted to demonstrate the harmful effects of consuming pork and blood, as well as the risks associated with improper slaughter methods, shedding light on why these practices are prohibited in the Quran.

• The prohibition of pork in Islam stems from scientific discoveries showing genetic similarities between pigs and humans, raising concerns about disease transmission and digestion difficulties.
• Pigs possess enzymes that contribute to undesirable traits such as voraciousness and unclean feeding habits, posing health risks to consumers.
• Consumption of pork has been linked to various diseases, including cardiovascular issues and viral infections like H3N2 flu.
• Improperly slaughtered animals can harbour blood-borne pathogens and toxins, leading to health hazards.
• Islam emphasises proper slaughtering methods to ensure food safety and adherence to dietary laws.
• Consumption of blood and its products is forbidden due to health risks associated with toxins, bacteria, and viruses present in blood.

What are the side effects of eating haram foods?

From a purely nutritional standpoint, consuming Haram foods may not necessarily have direct side effects compared to Halal foods. However, certain prohibited substances found in Haram foods, such as alcohol and pork, can potentially pose health risks if consumed in significant quantities. Here are some potential nutritional side effects with specific Haram foods:

• Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to various health problems, including stress, liver damage, heart disease, impaired cognitive function, and increased risk of certain cancers. It also provides empty calories, contributing to weight gain and obesity.
• Pork: Pork is high in unhealthy saturated fats and cholesterol, which can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. It may also contain harmful parasites and bacteria if not properly cooked, leading to foodborne illnesses such as trichinosis and salmonellosis.
• Carrion: Consuming carrion (meat from an animal that died from causes other than proper slaughter) can pose significant health risks due to bacterial contamination and decomposition. It increases the likelihood of foodborne illnesses such as food poisoning.
• Blood: Consuming blood or food products made from blood can increase the risk of transmitting bloodborne pathogens and infections. It may also lead to excessive iron intake, which can be harmful to individuals with certain medical conditions.

Overall, while the nutritional side effects of consuming Haram foods may not be inherent to the foods themselves, they primarily stem from the presence of specific prohibited substances and improper handling or preparation. It’s essential to prioritize a balanced diet consisting of Halal foods to maintain optimal health and well-being.

Conclusion

The halal industry has gained global attention due to increasing awareness. Non-Muslim countries like Brazil and Australia are also recognizing the economic potential of the halal market. Malaysia and Indonesia are key players, with Malaysia consistently ranking high in global indicators. The industry’s global expenditure is growing, offering significant opportunities across various sectors. Lifestyle offerings such as halal travel, fashion, and cosmetics are becoming popular, catering to both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers. As the halal industry expands, it is all set to become a competitive force in the global economy.

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