Halal analyses

What are challal foods?
The Arabic word Halal is translated as “permissible” by Islamic law and refers to both objects and actions. In nutritional terms, Halal foods are those whose consumption is permissible under the Qur’an. Conversely, those that are “not permissible” are called Haram. These terms are widely used in relation to food products, meat products, food ingredients and food contact materials.

Food companies whose products are intended for consumption by the Muslim population can be certified for the suitability of their processes and products.

BIOCHEMIKI Analytical Laboratories can provide you with the chemical analyses necessary for the xaracterization of Halal products, such as:

Detection of pig tissue in meat products
Quantification of alcohol in food and beverages
Our qualified staff is able to provide you with additional consulting support for the certification of your company’s Halal system.

Foods considered Haram
Generally, any food is considered Halal in Islam unless specifically prohibited by the Quran. Some examples of non-permitted (Haram) foods are:

Pork, bacon, ham and any product of pigs
Alcoholic beverages and intoxicants
Non Halal animal fat or butter or other fat used in confectionery or for bread making
Enzymes * (Microbial enzymes are allowed)
Gelatin * – from a non Halal source (fish gelatin is Halal)
L-Cysteine (if from human hair)
Lard
Lipase * (only animal lipase should be avoided)
Meat broth of undefined origin
Animal rennet (All forms should be avoided except vegetable/microbial/synthetic – rennet obtained from animals slaughtered according to Halal principles is permissible).
Carnivores, birds of prey and certain other animals
Food contaminated with any of the above products
(* May be consumed if derived from Halal animals.)

Muslims are only allowed to eat meat that has been prepared in accordance with Islamic law. In the meat and poultry industry, animals such as cows, beef, lamb, sheep, goats, turkeys, chickens, ducks, game birds, bison, deer meat, etc., are considered Halal, but they must be prepared according to Islamic laws so that their meat is fit for consumption. Fish and seafood (with the exception of crocodiles, alligators and frogs) are generally acceptable to Muslims. However, the preparation of fish or seafood must not include alcohol (e.g. wine or anything considered Haram). Of course, in cases of emergency, prohibited items may be made permissible (Halal) for the duration of the emergency, as Islam prioritises life over death.

Islam also places great emphasis on the manner in which an animal’s life ends, which must be in accordance with Islamic regulations. The process of slaughtering has specific standards that must be followed for the meat to be considered Halal. This is because according to Islamic law if an animal’s life must be ended for the survival of man, then its life must be taken only in the name of God.