What is Halal?
Halal is an Arabic word that means “permissible.” In terms of food, it means food that is permissible according to Islamic law. Foods that are not permitted are called “Haram.”
Halal is the ultimate stamp of purity and safety guaranteeing superior quality products.
What guidelines should be followed while slaughtering animals?
The slaughter of a halal animal is called “zabihah” and there are certain guidelines to follow:
- Allah’s (God’s) name must be pronounced during slaughter.
- The instrument must be very sharp to ensure humane slaughter. The animal must be slit at the throat.
- The animal must not be unconscious
- The animal must be hung upside down and allowed to bleed dry. (Eating blood is not halal.)
- These steps must be accomplished by a Muslim.
- The animal must have been fed a natural diet that did not contain animal by-products.
Which foods are categorized as “Haram”?
- Pork and its by-products e.g. gelatin, lipase, pepsin
- Meat from animals not slaughtered according to the Islamic dietary law
- Alcohol and foods prepared with alcohol e.g. candies and cakes that include alcohol such as rum cake Foods made with pure or artificial vanilla extract (vanilla is prepared with alcohol)
- Foods containing blood and blood by-products e.g. blood pudding
- Foods made with any of the following: whey prepared with non-microbial enzyme, rennet, animal shortening, monoglycerides and diglycerides from an animal source, sodium stearoyl- lactylate, L-cysteine.
What is Halal Certificate?
A Halal certificate is a guarantee that the products comply with the Islamic dietary requirements or Islamic lifestyle.
What is the need for Halal Certification?
With the growing Muslim population, there is an increasing demand for Halal certified products and services. The primary purpose for Halal Certification is to serve the Muslim community in meeting their religious compliance.
What is the importance of Halal Certificate?
The certificate of halal gives assurance to the consumers that the food products are produced according to Shariah Law. Also, they are clean, hygienic and respect animal welfare.
Why should I choose ISNA Halal Certification Services?
We’ve been certifying Halal products for 20 years and are one of the most trusted Canadian certifiers. Our certification process is much faster and more convenient. Also, we continue to add value to your business post-certification.
What is our Certification process?
After receiving your application, we schedule an on-site inspection. The outcome of the inspection is discussed by the HCS committee. After the approval of fees paid, the signed TOA and Certificates are issued. Then Annual renewals take place.