Halal Consumption Guidelines: What Is Permitted and What Is Prohibited

By Editorial Team | June 2025

The term Halal means "permissible" or "lawful" in Arabic. In the context of food, it defines what Muslims are allowed to consume according to Sharia, or Islamic Law. On the other hand, Haram refers to what is forbidden. This distinction goes far beyond personal preference — it is rooted in faith, health, and strict adherence to religious norms.

What Is Halal?

For a product to be considered Halal, it must meet specific requirements throughout the entire production chain — from sourcing and processing to transport and storage.

Generally, the following are permitted:

• Meat from animals slaughtered according to Islamic rites (Zabihah), with a blessing and complete drainage of blood
• Fish and seafood (with some exceptions)
• Fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, and cereals
• Dairy products, as long as they contain no Haram ingredients
• Processed foods certified by recognized Halal authorities

Cross-contamination with prohibited substances must also be strictly avoided at every stage.

What Is Haram?

Haram items are those explicitly forbidden by Islamic Law. These include:

• Pork and its by-products
• Animals that died before slaughter or were not slaughtered according to Halal practices
• Blood and any product containing blood
• Alcohol and intoxicating substances, even in small amounts
• Gelatin or additives derived from non-Halal animal sources
• Products containing impure or non-certified enzymes and ingredients

For practicing Muslims, consuming something Haram is not just a dietary error — it’s a religious violation. Trust in a product’s source and preparation is essential.

Why Does It Matter?

To the general public, these guidelines may seem like cultural preferences. But for over 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide, they are a daily practice grounded in belief. Respecting these rules is an act of faith.

For companies, understanding and following Halal standards is a strategic business move. The global Halal market continues to grow, driven by a young, connected, and values-driven population. This extends far beyond food to include cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even financial services.

Businesses that want to reach this audience need more than good intentions — they need Halal certification that proves compliance with religious requirements.

Integrity, Respect, and Global Reach

Following Halal practices isn’t just about market access. It’s about respecting differences, acting ethically, and committing to food safety and product integrity.

Whether you’re a consumer, producer, or distributor, understanding Halal consumption guidelines is the first step toward making informed choices — and building trust in a more diverse, interconnected world.