Understanding Halal Food Standards
Halal-certified food products are among the most least understood at a consumer level. That’s understandable, considering the level of detail that goes into every element of production. An enormous amount of effort goes into every step of the food production chain in order to ensure compliance.
Because the rules are so complex, it helps to have a basic understanding of halal food standards.
When Does a Food Product Qualify as Halal?
The short answer is that halal products must adhere to strict guidelines as determined by Muslim tradition. Halal standards cover everything from what ingredients can be used to how they should and should not be handled.
Halal is also very specific in regard to products that are not permitted. The short list below is just a sample of ingredients or animals that fall into that category.
- Pork
- Carnivores and birds of prey
- Blood or blood byproducts
- Alcohol
As you can imagine, it takes a great deal of understanding to get every detail right in order to earn halal certification.
What Has to be Considered During Prep?
The strict guidelines behind halal food products put an onus on the food manufacturer. While an unfamiliar consumer might assume that the ingredients listed on the package tell the whole story of halal food manufacturing, so much more goes into the end product. For example, halal meat preparation dictates how an animal must be slaughtered, and what must take place immediately after that. From there, a food manufacturer must adhere to guidelines related to processing, packaging, transportation and storage. Additionally, the manufacturer must be extra careful to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination with non-halal (or haram) food products.
Who Sets the Halal Standard?
Halal standards actually have a deep historical significance for the Muslim community. Certification is confirmed by qualified, third-party bodies. A manufacturer must demonstrate strict adherence throughout the entire production process in order to earn halal certification.
Can Any Food Manufacturer Provide Halal Food Products?
Because of the extreme attention to detail and the effort that goes into properly certifying halal food products, it’s best to go with a food manufacturer that has the expertise and experience necessary to eliminate any doubt about the halal process. To learn more about the methods behind halal food production, or to find out about PacMoore specialty food production, contact us today.
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