The Halal industry—especially in the fields of food, cosmetics, and cosmeceuticals—is one of the fastest-growing sectors worldwide. Experts agree that the adoption of unified global Halal standards will further accelerate this growth by removing international trade barriers, ensuring consistency in compliance, and harmonizing certification procedures.

The term Halal (Arabic: permissible or lawful) refers to what is allowed under Islamic law (Shari’ah). In the context of food, it represents the dietary guidelines prescribed by Islam.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Halal is clear and Haram (unlawful) is clear. Between them are doubtful matters unknown to many. Whoever avoids them safeguards his religion and honor, while those who fall into them may fall into the unlawful.” (Bukhari)

The Qur’an provides clear guidance:

“O you who believe! Eat of the good things We have provided for you, and be grateful to Allah, if it is Him you worship.”
(Al-Baqarah, 2:172)

Prohibited (Haram) items are also explicitly mentioned:

“He has only forbidden you carrion, blood, the flesh of swine, and that over which any other name has been invoked besides Allah’s.”
(Al-Baqarah, 2:173)

“Forbidden to you are carrion, blood, the flesh of swine, animals slaughtered without Allah’s name, the strangled, the beaten, the fallen, the gored, and those partly eaten by wild beasts—except what you are able to slaughter before death—and animals sacrificed on stone alters…”
(Al-Ma’idah, 5:3)

Regarding intoxicants, the Qur’an declares:

“O you who believe! Intoxicants, gambling, idols, and divining arrows are an abomination of Satan’s handiwork. So avoid them that you may be successful.”
(Al-Ma’idah, 5:90)

Scientific Reasoning Behind Prohibitions

Islamic prohibitions also align with modern scientific understanding:

• Carrion (dead animals): contain harmful toxins due to decay.

• Blood: carries bacteria, toxins, and waste products harmful for humans.

• Swine (pork): hosts dangerous parasites (e.g., Trichinella spiralis, Taenia solium) and contains unhealthy fats.

• Intoxicants: damage the nervous system, impair judgment, and lead to social harm.

While these explanations support the rulings, the fundamental reason for prohibition is Divine command.

Halal Animals

The following animals are lawful for Muslims when slaughtered according to Islamic principles:

• Domestic birds

• Cattle

• Sheep & goats

• Camels

• Deer and antelope

• Rabbits

• Fish and locusts

Conditions of Slaughter (Zabiha)

• The slaughterer must be a Muslim.

• The name of Allah must be invoked (Bismillah, Allahu Akbar).

• A sharp knife must be used for a swift and humane cut.

• The trachea, esophagus, and at least three of the four main blood vessels must be severed.

• Slaughter must be done manually, below the Adam’s apple, without unnecessary delay.

Haram Animals & Products

The following are prohibited:

• Swine and all its by-products

• Animals not slaughtered in Allah’s name

• Carrion (dead animals)

• Animals strangled, beaten, fallen, gored, or partially eaten by predators

• Carnivorous animals (e.g., lions, dogs, tigers)

• Birds of prey (eagles, vultures, owls, falcons)

• Reptiles and pests (snakes, crocodiles, rats, scorpions)

• Insects (except locusts)

• Mules and donkeys

Unlawful Organs (Even if the animal is Halal)

• Flowing blood

• Reproductive organs (male & female)

• Pancreas, gallbladder, bladder

Haram Fluids

• Alcohol of all types

• Blood

• All intoxicating substances (including drugs)