ENSURING
HALAL PRODUCT INTEGRITY AND AN INVESTIGATIVE
STUDY OF
U.S POLICY PRACTICES
Zaki Ahmad1, Md
Mahfujur Rahman2,�
Universiti Utara Malaysia, Kedah, Malaysia
[email protected]1, [email protected]2
ABSTRACT
Anticipating a significant rise to 27% of the global population by 2030,
the halal industry is garnering noteworthy attention worldwide. This study
provides a comprehensive investigation of halal industrial players with the
elements of products and the United States' regulatory landscape. It aims to
scrutinize the hurdles faced by the halal industry and gauge the effectiveness
of prevailing policies. The research methodology encompasses a series of phone
interviews with industry experts, complemented by extensive desktop research
encompassing research papers, articles, journals, textbooks, and news reports.
This study is guided by three primary research objectives. It aims to gain
insights from key industry stakeholders, understand non-halal elements in products
beyond meat in the Muslim market, and evaluate halal industry policies in the
United States, emphasizing their origins and the role of independent
organizations in ensuring compliance. The findings illuminate prevalent policy
adoption and underscore the paramount importance of standardized approaches and
stringent oversight within the halal industry. Thus, the current research
offers invaluable insights into the dynamic landscape of halal products and
policies in the United States, enriching the ongoing discourse on the
industry's trajectory and sustainability.
Keyword: Challenges,
Halal industry, Policy, United States of America.
Corresponding Author: Md
Mahfujur Rahman
E-mail: [email protected]
INTRODUCTION
Over the last two decades, Halal has undergone a
remarkable transformation, evolving from an exclusive niche market primarily
serving Muslim consumers into a dynamic global phenomenon (Centre, 2015). This transformation is further underscored by the
data presented in the worldwide Islamic economy report of 2017/18, which
indicated that the global Halal market was valued at approximately USD 2,006
billion in 2016. Even more astonishing is the prediction that this market was
set to surge to an estimated USD 4,081 billion by 2026 (Reuters, 2018). Today, the influence of Halal extends far beyond its
origins in the food industry, branching into diverse sectors such as fashion,
travel, beauty products, pharmaceuticals, and media (Osman et al., 2017). This diversification has turned Halal into one of
the fastest-growing consumer segments worldwide, further cementing its status
as a global economic force (Osman et al., 2017).
Numerous factors have contributed to the remarkable
expansion of the Halal market and its flourishing international trade (Ahmad et al., 2023; Elasrag,
2016). Foremost among these factors is the rapid
proliferation and global dispersion of the Muslim population. According to data
from the Pew Research Center in 2011, the global Muslim population stood at
approximately 1.8 billion. However, the growth trajectory of this population
has been nothing short of astounding, with a projected increase to 2.2 billion
by 2030, representing a significant 26% of the world's total population (Center, 2011). This accelerated growth is attributed to a
combination of factors, including higher fertility rates, increased migration,
and shifts in religious affiliations, as highlighted in a study conducted by (Buheji et al., 2020). Additionally, the Muslim diaspora has become
increasingly widespread, spanning all corners of the globe (Desilver, D., &
Masci, 2017). It is estimated that in approximately 134 countries,
more than 1% of their total population is composed of Muslims, demonstrating
the global reach and influence of this demographic (Malik, 2020). This demographic shift, along with the robust
presence of Muslims in diverse regions, has played a pivotal role in propelling
the Halal market into the global economic spotlight, contributing to its
unprecedented growth and international trade dynamics. Figure 1, represents the
market size of Halal industry globally, it demonstrates that Halal food market
share is 43%, clothing and media share their market share at 23% each, tourism,
pharmaceuticals and cosmetics hold the Halal market share at 8%, 7% and 5%
respectively.
Figure
1. Global Halal industry size (Source: Thomson Reuters, 2021)
The second pivotal factor fueling the expansion of the
Halal market and its international trade is the simultaneous rise in education
and economic prosperity within the Muslim community, particularly among the
younger generations. In a notable contrast to the prevailing global demographic
trends, where many nations grapple with the challenges of an aging population,
statistics reveal that a striking 60% of the population in Muslim-majority
countries is under the age of 30 (Center, 2011). This demographic dividend translates into a
substantial cohort of young individuals with increasing purchasing power and
evolving preferences compared to previous generations. These young consumers
not only aspire to acquire a diverse range of goods and services but also seek
products that align with their faith and lifestyle choices. Importantly, they
possess the financial means to fulfill these preferences. This shift in
consumer dynamics has reshaped the development of Halal products, driving innovation
and adaptation to cater to the demands of this emerging market segment. As a
result, Halal products have become a significant part of international trade,
further emphasizing the dynamic and evolving nature of the Halal market (Izberk-Bilgin &
Nakata, 2016).
Furthermore, the appeal of Halal products has
transcended its traditional boundaries and is no longer confined solely to
Muslim consumers. Recent data highlights a notable shift in perception among
non-Muslim consumers, particularly those who prioritize health and ethical
considerations (Mahomed, 2017). These individuals are increasingly drawn to Halal
products due to their strong emphasis on purity in substance and a commitment
to promoting products that closely align with their natural origins. This shift
signifies a growing recognition that Halal products uphold not only religious
requirements but also principles that resonate with broader ethical and
sustainable values. Halal products have become intertwined with conventional
values such as fair trade, organic agriculture, animal welfare, food safety,
and ecological economics (Afsari et al., 2017); (Khan, 2024). This alignment with a spectrum of values has
expanded the consumer base for Halal products, making them more inclusive and
appealing to a wider audience, thus further amplifying their role in the global
market. As a result, Halal products have not only found favor within Muslim
communities but have also gained traction among a diverse and discerning group
of consumers who prioritize both quality and ethical considerations.
The global market for Halal products has emerged as a
potent catalyst in propelling the global economy to new heights, exerting
considerable influence, and creating noteworthy ripple effects in developed
countries. The pivotal role played by the development of the Islamic economic
system can be defined by the remarkable progress seen in the worldwide Halal
industry (Susilawati, 2020). With each passing year, the demand for Halal
products continues to surge, and this growth is not limited to Muslim-majority
nations (Randeree, 2020); it is expanding at an accelerated pace in western
countries as well. According to data from the Pew Research Center, cited in (Morlin-Yron, 2016) a report in 2014 assessed the global Halal food and
beverage market at an astounding RM1.37 trillion, representing a remarkable 18%
of the entire market. This statistic underscores the robust and expanding
presence of Halal products in the global marketplace. Furthermore, insights
from Paulius Kuncinas, also cited in (Morlin-Yron, 2016), reveal that the Halal market is experiencing
substantial growth, with an estimated annual growth rate ranging between 10 to
20% in Europe. In essence, the Halal industry is not only a significant
economic force but also intricately tied to the broader Islamic economic
system, providing crucial support and momentum to its development and
expansion. This interplay between the Halal industry and the Islamic economy
highlights the vital role they collectively play in shaping the global economic
landscape.
The main objective of this study is to gain insights from key industry stakeholders, understand
non-halal elements in products beyond meat in the Muslim market, and evaluate
halal industry policies in the United States, emphasizing their origins and the
role of independent organizations in ensuring compliance. The research
methodology employed is a series of phone interviews with industry experts,
complemented by extensive desktop research encompassing research papers,
articles, journals, textbooks, and news reports.
METHOD
A
qualitative research method used to collect primary data. It involved phone
interviews which are an important research methodology for various fields,
offering several advantages. They provide accessibility to a wide geographic
range of participants, are cost-effective, and convenient. Phone interviews can
maintain participant anonymity, reduce social desirability bias, and yield
high-quality data with real-time probing and recording capabilities. They also
save time and offer flexibility in scheduling (Cachia & Millward, 2011). To achieve the objective of this study the information
was gathered using phone interviews with a representative from Islamic Society
of the Washington Area (ISWA) Halal Certification Department at the USA Halal
Chamber of Commerce, Inc., and Durdur Halal Baker and Grocery Inc. also been
conducted. Secondary data applied in this study is acquired from variety of
online database journals, official websites of Durdur Halal Baker and Grocery
Inc as well as other such sources.
Research Objective 1:
To Know the Views of Industry Players in Halal Industry.
To
address the first research objective, phone interviews were conducted with a
representative from Islamic Society of the Washington Area (ISWA) Halal
Certification Department at the USA Halal Chamber of Commerce, Inc., and Durdur
Halal Baker and Grocery Inc. These interviews focused on gathering insights and
opinions from key industry players regarding various aspects of the halal
industry.
Research Objective 2:
To find out what kind of few products that contain non-Halal elements which are
sold in the Muslim market exceptional of meat.
For
the second research objective, the study utilized a combination of phone
interviews and secondary data analysis. Phone interviews were conducted with
representatives from Durdur Halal Baker and Grocery Inc. to gain specific
insights into products containing non-halal elements that are sold in the
Muslim market, excluding meat. Additionally, secondary data was sourced from
online databases, official websites of Durdur Halal Baker and Grocery Inc., and
other relevant platforms.
Research Objective 3:
To examine either policy are adopted in United States could be able to face
with challenges in halal industry and as well as its effectiveness.
To
fulfill the third research objective, an extensive review of existing policies
in the United States related to the halal industry was conducted. This involved
analyzing halal food policies originating from various Asian Muslim sources,
including standards from Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Additionally,
phone interviews were conducted with representatives from ISWA Halal
Certification Department to gain insights into the effectiveness of these
policies and the criteria used to determine halal certification for products.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Research
Objective 1: To Know the Views of Industry Players in Halal Industry.
The Halal
Industry Development Corporation (n.d.) projects a significant demographic
shift by the year 2030, wherein the global Muslim population is anticipated to
comprise approximately 27 percent of the world's total populace, encompassing
an estimated 2 billion individuals. This substantial growth has not gone
unnoticed, as the Halal industry has garnered substantial international
attention, with countries including Thailand, Japan, China, the United Kingdom,
and Australia actively participating in this expanding market. This global
Muslim population, which currently stands at an estimated 1.83 billion, has
catalyzed the proliferation of Halal products and witnessed an increased
acceptance of Halal standards even among non-Muslim communities. Notably, the
research methodology employed for this study incorporates a qualitative
approach, encompassing interviews with key stakeholders within the Halal
industry, aimed at gathering valuable insights and perspectives from industry
experts. This research initiative reflects the burgeoning interest in and
significance of the Halal industry on a global scale.
Meanwhile,
according to Sheikh Nur Hadi, President of Durdur Halal Baker and Grocery Inc.,
the good that we consume in producing products are either plant based or animal
based. The animal-based foods are the main issue when it comes to halal or
haram. What makes animal-based food Shariah non-compliant is either that the
animal in question is originally among the forbidden species or that it was not
slaughtered according to the provisions of the Shariah rituals. Sheikh Nur Hadi
also says that their business relay on halal certifiers, such as American Halal
Foundation (AHF) and as well as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve
the kind of products they buy as a distributor of halal products in Minnesota,
United States.
Research Objective 2:� To find out what kind of few products that
contain non-Halal elements which are sold in the Muslim market exceptional of
meat.
From the
methodology adopted in this study, some of the findings are found which is
related to the products that contain non-halal elements which are sold in the
Muslim market exceptional of meat. In fulfilling the research objective 2, this
study separated to four elements containing (1) type of non-halal elements that
are widely used in a product, (2) non-halal element in food products sold in
the Muslim market, (3) non-halal elements in medicines and health products sold
in the Muslim market and (4) non-halal elements in beauty and cosmetics
products sold in the Muslim market.
Type of Non-Halal Elements that are Widely Used in a Product
In
contemporary times, the intricate landscape of food processing,
pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and beauty products available in the market
presents a formidable challenge for Muslims, who seek to navigate the complex
issue of animal-derived ingredients, including those sourced from haram
origins. In instances where a particular food or cosmetic product is
unequivocally determined to be haram, the regulatory practice necessitates the
labeling of such products as "for non-Muslim use only." This approach
aims to prevent any potential confusion among Muslim consumers. It is crucial
to underscore that the principles governing matters of halal and haram are
grounded in a framework of moderation, wherein halal is equated with
excellence. In this context, any deviation from the standards of excellence
renders a product less than entirely halal. The following examples represent
prevalent elements that are considered non-halal and are commonly found in the
ingredients of products marketed to the Muslim consumer base. This nuanced
approach underscores the critical importance of understanding and adhering to
the principles of halal and haram in the production and labeling of consumer
goods.
1)
Gelatin or
Non-Halal Gelatin is made from non-zahiba beef (animal that has been
slaughtered in a non-Shariah way) which is considered as not halal by many
Islamic scholars. However, if it obtains from pork then it will be haram. Any
foods or vitamins that contain gelatin in its ingredients are non-halal for the
Muslims to be consumed unless it is made from fish gelatin.
2)
Carmine or
Cochineal is a natural red colour which is made from red female beetles from
South America. According to Hanafi fiqah, all insects except locust are haram.
3)
Ethyl
Alcohol, according to Islamic scholars, this type of alcohol is haram. Ethyl
Alcohol is also used in many kinds of cosmetics agents whether for the men
(which widely used in the Aftershave Lotion) and also for female perfumes. This
kind of Ethyl Alcohol will be absorbed through the skin. As a small quantity of
any intoxicant.
Non-halal elements in food products sold in the Muslim market
The consumption of halal food is a
important aspect of Islamic dietary laws, and adherence to these guidelines is
essential for Muslim individuals. In this context, understanding the presence
of non-halal elements in food products is crucial. This section explores
various food items sold in the Muslim market that contain ingredients
considered non-halal. Muslim dietary practices strictly adhere to guidelines
outlined in the Quran and the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). While a wide
range of foods is generally accepted, some products contain non-halal elements,
making them impermissible for consumption. Table 1, provides insights into
specific food items and the non-halal elements found in their ingredients:
Table 1. The non-halal elements in food products sold in the
market
|
No. |
Food Product |
Non-Halal Element |
|
1 |
Vanilla Extract, natural vanilla or flavor |
Alcohol used in extraction, prohibited in any amount |
|
2 |
Sunsweet Plum Smart |
Alcohol used as extracting solvent |
|
3 |
Kikkoman Soy Sauce 20 FI Oz. |
Contains 2 to 3 percent alcohol, brewed like wine |
|
4 |
Milano Milk and Dark Chocolate Cookies |
Vanilla Extract with alcohol extract |
|
5 |
Potato Chips by Pringles |
Alcohol may be used in flavors as a processing aid |
|
6 |
Langers Fruit Punch and Raspberry Lemonade |
Presence of alcohol in natural flavor |
This table outlines specific
products and their associated non-halal elements, emphasizing the importance of
awareness among consumers in the Muslim market. Understanding these elements is
crucial for making informed choices aligned with halal dietary principles. The
subsequent sections delve into the broader implications of these findings,
including potential challenges faced by the halal industry and the
effectiveness of existing policies.
In addition, the food cannot be
prepared or manufactured using the same manufacturing equipment or dishes which
were exposed to substances from animals which are forbidden by Islamic law. The
food should not be in contact with any foods which are unacceptable for
consumption, such as cooking your eggs on the same grill as bacons. And last
but not the least food should be free of any alcoholic traces and the chef
should not add any alcohol to the food excluding fermented foods such as yeast,
cheese, bread etc. Another important aspect in food preparation is hygiene
which means the site for food preparation must be clean and free of any harmful
things to human health, which can cause infestation.
Non-Halal elements in medicines and health products sold in the Muslim
market
As a Muslim, we have to understand
that materials used in producing medicine also must be suitable with Islamic
philosophy such as clean and do not contain the elements which are clearly
stated forbidden by Allah (S.W.T).
The comprehension and
acknowledgment of the concepts of halal and haram in the context of medicinal
products hold profound significance and warrant collective attention to ensure
that health treatments align with Islamic principles. In Malaysia, the regulatory
oversight of the halal status of medicines and health-related products falls
under the purview of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and
the State Islamic Department (JAIN). JAKIM, in particular, plays a pivotal role
in pioneering the implementation of the Halal Certification for pharmaceutical
products, predicated on the inaugural Halal Pharmaceuticals Standard worldwide,
denoted as MS2424:2012. This standardization framework marks a critical
milestone in harmonizing the halal certification of pharmaceuticals with
Islamic tenets and underscores the imperative need for its integration within
the healthcare system. Such measures represent a significant stride in
promoting health practices that resonate with the values and guidelines of
Islamic teachings in the Malaysian context.
Below are the types of medicine
and health products that are widely sold in the Muslim market:
1)
St. Joseph
Low Dose Aspirin 81 Mg by St. Joseph Pharmaceuticals. This is one of the
Aspirin produced by St. Joseph Pharmacy. It contains Stearic Acid which made
from either pork fat or beef.
2)
Nido
Fortificada Milk for Kids by Nestle. One of the Nestle products that have no
Halal or Kosher symbol on the package it means they can add Haram hidden
ingredients and also vitamins are not Halal or Kosher certified.
3)
Sudafed Pe
Cold & Cough for Children, manufactured by Sudafed Pe, presents a concern
related to its composition. The product contains glycerin, an ingredient
derived from either pork or beef fat, with the manufacturer unable to specify
the source animal. Furthermore, it is worth noting that the product's flavoring
includes the presence of alcohol.
Non-halal elements in beauty and cosmetics products sold in the
Muslim market
Generally, cosmetics are not just the makeup products that we use
on our faces but it also covers shampoo, perfume, lotion, powder, lipstick,
moisturizer, hand sanitizer, aftershave shop, deodorant and etc. that we use on
our body as well. Whatever we spray or put on our skin eventually becomes part
of it. Below are the examples of popular cosmetics products that are widely
sold in the Muslim market that contain the non-halal elements in their
ingredients:
1) The Body Shop
Products. The company asserts its use of gelatin derived from either pork or
zabiha beef, while also incorporating shellac, which could potentially involve
alcohol in its dissolution process. As per the guidance provided by the Muslim
Consumer Group (n.d.), it is advised that Muslims refrain from using products
offered by The Body Shop due to these ingredients and their associated
concerns.
2) Neutrogena
makeup products � Carmine. The products are used in some Neutrogena Makeup
products (Muslim Consumer Group, n.d.). There are about 56 products that are
using Carmine in their ingredients. Among popular products containing Carmine
made by this brand are Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blush, Rosy (Blusher),
Neutrogena Nourishing Eye Liner, Cosmic Black (Eye Liner) and Neutrogena
Moisture Shine Lip Gloss.
3) Revlon (Rose and
Primrose Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick). It is not halal due to the presence of
Carmine Red Colour which is obtained from an insect. All insect except locust
are haram.
4) Dove Men Care
Cool Silver Stick. Unilever, as a company, has indicated its practice of
utilizing vegetable or animal fat, which may encompass pork fat, as well as
synthetic-based ingredients. The choice between these components is contingent
on their availability at the time of the manufacturing process.
5) Avon makeup
products. Some products are made with pork fat and some products are halal.
Some of their products also use Carmine Red Colour in their ingredient. They
are not Halal if Carmine Red Colour is used.
6) All Skin Care
Facial Products form Olay. Oil of Olay skin care products are made with pork
fat.
Research
Objective 3: To examine either policy are adopted in united states could be
able to face with challenges in halal industry and as well as its
effectiveness.
In this part,
it discusses a few policies which are adopted in the United States in order to
cope with challenges facing in halal industry. In the United States, the
government regulates overs food industries, pharmaceutical industry and
cosmetics industry but independent organizations monitor, regulate and
supervise over the halal aspects of those industries and markets in the United
States and as well as most non-Muslim countries. In this study, it discusses a
few of these certifying organizations, their effectiveness and what factors
they use to determine if a product is halal or haram and as well as there are
some questions that have been asked to a few of accreditation organizations in
the United States about the general process that they use to examine and
scrutinize a variety of products from each classification covering foods,
pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. To provide an overview of these policies and
their effectiveness, we have compiled the relevant information into Table 2.
This table includes details about specific certifying organizations, their
approaches to determining halal or haram status, and the key factors they
consider during their assessments.
Table 2. Summary of Halal Industry
Policies and Effectiveness
|
Policy Type |
Source/Standard |
Key Components |
Effectiveness |
|
Halal Food Policies in the United States |
Singapore:
MUIS-HC-S001, MUIS-HS-S002 |
a.
Originated
from various Asian Muslim sources including Singapore, Malaysia, and
Indonesia. b.
Used
by American halal food product makers for export to different countries. |
Provides a framework for ensuring the
halal status of food products intended for export. |
|
ISWA Halal Standards and Guidelines |
ISWA Halal Certification Department |
a.
Outlines
specific steps for food preparation, packaging, and storage to conform to
halal standards. b.
Requires
slaughter facility to be USDA inspected and animal blessing to be done by a
Muslim. c.
Emphasizes
humane treatment of animals during pre-slaughter and slaughter. |
Offers a detailed protocol for
ensuring the halal status of food products in accordance with ISWA standards. |
|
ISWA Halal Certification Policy on Health and Beauty Products |
ISWA Halal Certification Department |
a.
Determines
permissibility of cosmetic products based on various factors. b.
Highlights
the prohibition of ethyl alcohol and products/ingredients containing alcohol
in Islam. c.
Allows
exceptions for artificial and natural flavors, colors, and certain
meat/vegetable bases that may contain alcohol. |
Provides specific criteria for
assessing the halal status of health and beauty products, particularly
regarding the usage of alcohol. |
|
Effectiveness of United States� Current Policies in Halal Industry |
Various Asian Muslim Sources
(Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia) |
a.
Adopts
policies from Asian countries to regulate halal aspects of food,
pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries. b.
-
Involves independent organizations in the supervision and regulation of halal
aspects in the United States. |
Policies tend to originate from Asian
Muslim sources, suggesting an adoption approach rather than domestic policy
creation for the halal industry. |
The purpose of these asking
questions to the organizations is to determine the effectiveness of their
process for checking products for haram elements and the examination rubrics
for products for that classification. In the United States, halal
pharmaceutical products are sold and distributed using the same policies
adopted by the JAKIM. Other than that, a representation from Islamic Society of
the Washington Area (ISWA) Halal Certification Department told that not all
accreditation bodies in the United States adopt the JAKIM standards, but many
do. In terms of halal pharmaceutical standard, the JAKIM police halal
pharmaceuticals based on General Guidelines MS2424:2012 for medicines and
pharmaceutical products and it used to certify some of the halal products in
the United States.
1)
Halal Food
Policies in the United States
Halal
food policies in the United States tend to originate from a variety of Asian
Muslim sources. According to ISWA Halal Certification Department, one source is
Singapore: MUIS-HC-S001 and MUIS-HS-S002, which are used in Gulf Cooperation
Council (GCC) countries. Another standard is the Malaysian Standard: JAKIM
MS1500:2009 Standard. The last are a set of halal policies from Indonesia
called MUI ISO9001, ISO19011 and ISO22000 PRP for halal food products made in
the United States. All of these standards are used by American halal food
products makers for halal food destined for various countries.
2)
ISWA Halal
Standards and Guidelines
From the
interview with a representative from ISWA Halal Certification Department, we
have been told that the ISWA Halal Standards and Guidelines are associated with
many halal food products made for American Muslims. The standards and
guidelines detail how the food should be prepared for package and storage to
conform to the halal standards. There are few stages in getting ISWA Halal
Standards, which covers:
a. The slaughter
facility must be a USDA inspected one applies meat or poultry; and
b. The slaughter
and blessing of the animals are to be done by a Muslim.
The
Slaughter Facility must be a USDA Inspected One Applies Meat or Poultry
The stipulation that the slaughter
facility must be USDA inspected aligns with the broader challenges identified
in implementing and regulating Halal standards in the United States. According
to a study conducted by (Al-Mahmood
& Fraser, 2023), challenges in the Halal industry
include issues such as forged Halal certificates and expired Halal logos. The
study emphasized the consensus among Halal certifying bodies (HCBs) on the
necessity for a universal Halal standard, advocating for minimum standards
universally followed (Al-Mahmood
& Fraser, 2023).
The USDA's successful history of
regulating and monitoring food manufacturing plants provides a foundation for
food preparation standards throughout the United States. This aligns with the
call for standardized processes in the Halal industry. In addition, findings
from an interview with the ISWA Halal Certification Department reveal that ISWA
provides specific Islamic or Halal food regulations tailored to the industry,
including identification of animal species and products requiring Halal
Certification. This process allows ISWA to examine and certify specific cuts or
portions of meat products, ensuring compliance with their standards and
guidelines.
The Slaughtering
and Blessing of the Animals are to be done by a Muslim
Addressing the humane treatment of
animals during pre-slaughter and slaughter is in line with the multifaceted
challenges outlined in Halal standards implementation. (Al-Mahmood
& Fraser, 2023) study revealed significant challenges
in ensuring the authenticity of Halal certificates and the proper adherence to
standards. Additionally, the Food and Agricultural Agency of America's
examination of inhumane treatment of animals underscores the broader
implications of ethical practices on food taste and texture.
ISWA's emphasis on humane treatment
aligns with the need for standardized processes, as highlighted in the study by
(Abdallah
et al., 2021). Abdallah et al. stress the importance
of ensuring meat is derived from permitted animal species and slaughtered by a
Muslim, among other specific requirements, reinforcing the need for universal
Halal standards (Abdallah
et al., 2021).
ISWA Halal
Certification Policy on Health and Beauty Products
The ISWA Halal Certification
Department's considerations for health and beauty products, particularly the
prohibition of alcohol, resonate with the broader complexities outlined in
implementing Halal standards. (Al-Mahmood
& Fraser, 2023) noted challenges such as forged
certificates, emphasizing the need for robust certification processes.
Additionally, the nuanced exception in ISWA's policy regarding alcohol aligns
with the intricate considerations discussed in the study by (Islam et
al., 2024) Islam et al. integrated Islamic
principles with business theories, emphasizing the importance of certification
and the role of Islamic principles in creating and managing valuable resources (Islam et
al., 2024).
Effectiveness
of United States� Current Policies in Halal Industry
The examination of halal food policies
in the United States reflects the broader challenges and complexities outlined
in recent studies. (Al-Mahmood
& Fraser, 2023) findings on the challenges in the Halal
industry highlight the need for effective policies. The association of ISWA
Halal Standards and Guidelines with many Halal food products in the U.S.
underscores the importance of universal standards for the Halal food facility,
aligning with calls for standardized processes. Furthermore, the adaptation of
policies from Asian countries, as noted in the summary, reinforces the need for
continuous research and collaboration for effective policy development.
CONCLUSION
In
conclusion, this comprehensive study explored the multifaceted landscape of the
halal industry in the United States. Through interviews with key industry
players, we gained invaluable insights into their perspectives and experiences,
shedding light on the pivotal role of halal certifiers in ensuring compliance
with stringent standards. The exploration of non-halal components in various
product categories beyond meat highlighted critical concerns for consumers. For
instance, from gelatin to carmine and ethyl alcohol, vigilance is paramount.
Clear labeling and heightened consumer awareness are imperative to empower
individuals in making informed choices. The examination of policies revealed an
adoption approach, with origins primarily from Asian Muslim countries.
Independent organizations play a crucial role in upholding halal standards.
This underscores the importance of standardized practices and robust oversight
mechanisms. To further bolster the halal industry in the United States, it is
recommended that regulatory bodies work in tandem with industry stakeholders to
continuously refine and strengthen policies. Additionally, increased education
and awareness efforts about non-halal ingredients will assist halal product
consumers in making informed decisions. Furthermore, collaborative approach
will not only ensure the integrity of halal products but also foster
sustainable growth in the industry.
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