Halal is an Arabic term which means ‘permissible or lawful’. Halal is related to Islam and its dietary laws an is specifically related to meat processed and prepared as per the requirements of the laws.
On the other hand, Haram is an Arabic term which means ‘prohibited or forbidden’. As per the Quran, there are several products which are haram for the followers of Islam. These are– Alcohol, dead animal before its slaughter, blood and its by-products, pork and stunned meat (without halal process).
Halal Certification in India
Halal Certification is predominantly obtained for food and food-related products, and it is essential in Islamic countries. The term “Halal” is derived from the Quran, which means “permitted” or “lawful.” Therefore, according to Islamic law, the Shariah, the Certification is used for Food and other consumables permissible for consumption. Halal Certification emphasizes cleanliness in all aspects of a person’s life, and Halal foods ensure that the Food consumed by individuals is clean, hygienic, and does not harm their health or well-being. The Certification guarantees that the food product is safe for consumption. With the increasing awareness of Halal foods, more businesses are seeking Halal Certification for their products, restaurants, premises, etc.
In India, a Halal Certificate is a document issued by a Halal certification body or authority confirming that a product or service complies with Islamic dietary laws and guidelines and is permissible or “Halal” for consumption by Muslims.
Halal Certification in India is significant for food and beverage products, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. Still, it can also apply to other non-food products or services. Businesses seeking Halal Certification in India must comply with the relevant standards and guidelines set forth by the certification body or authority and undergo a rigorous inspection and audit process to ensure compliance.
What does Halal law states?
1- Only a Muslim man can slaughter the animal. In many texts, it is also mentioned that if Jews and Christians slaughter the animals following the rest of the steps (Halal procedure), the meat is halal as per the Islamic dietary laws.
2- The animal must be slaughtered with the help of a sharp knife with a cut to the jugular vein, carotid artery and windpipe.
3- The Quranic verse must be read while slaughtering the animal and is known as Tasmiya or Shahada.
4- At the time of slaughter, the animal must be alive and healthy. The maximum amount of blood must be drained from the veins of the carcass.
5- Consuming meat of an animal which is already dead or other than the halal process is prohibited in Islam.
Types of Halal Certification
The type of Halal Certification varies depending on the nature of the business. Typically, restaurants, hotels, slaughterhouses, and packaging and labeling materials seek Halal Certification to ensure they meet the requirements of Muslim consumers. However, Halal Certification is not limited to food production alone. Other products, such as non-alcoholic beverages, raw materials for food processing, pharmaceutical and healthcare products, traditional herbal products, cosmetics, personal care products, cleaning products, and everyday consumer goods, can also obtain Halal Certification.
Halal Certification Bodies offer Certification under various schemes, including the Food, and Catering Scheme, Restaurant Scheme, Industrial Scheme, Abattoir Scheme, Warehouse or Storage Scheme, and Product Endorsement Scheme
Halal Certification
halal certification is given by the government. In India, FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) certification can be seen on almost all the processed foods but this authority doesn’t give halal certification in India. Halal certification is given by many private companies in India which marks the food or products permissible for the followers of Islam. Important halal certification companies in India are:
1- Halal India Private Limited.
2- Halal Certification Services India Private Limited.
3- Jamiat Ulama-E-Maharashtra- A state unit of Jamiat Ulama-E-Hind.
4- Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust.
Advantages of expanding your business, the Halal way
Validity of Halal Certificate
The validity of a Halal Certificate typically lasts for one year. Still, it is subject to certain conditions and may be revoked if the product or process no longer meets the Halal Certification requirements.
Requirements of Halal Certificate
Halal Certification Procedure
Step 1: Application
The business wishing to obtain Halgettification must apply to one of the Certification Bodies. we help businesses understand the requirements for obtaining Halal Certification and provide guidance on the application process.
Step 2: Conducting the Audit
After the business has submitted its application, a team of auditors (typically one Shariah Auditor and one Technical Auditor) will conduct an on-site inspection of the business’s operations. The auditors will review and assess the following areas to ensure that they meet the requirements for Halal Certification:
During the audit, the business may need to provide criteria for accepting raw materials, a certificate of analysis, and a Halal certificate for individual components. Once the audit is completed, the audit report is to be signed.
Step 3: Certification
After the audit, the Halal Certification Body’s Technical Committee will review the audit report and other relevant documents the business provides. If the auditors’ report is satisfactory, and the company and its products meet the Halal certification criteria, the Halal Certification Body will issue the Halal Certificate. The certificate will include detail such as the name and address of the business, the scope of the Certification, and the validity period.
FAQs
What does a Halal certificate signify?
A Halal certificate signifies that the product or service has been certified by a recognized certification body as meeting the requirements of Islamic law and is permissible for consumption or use by Muslims.
Who issues halal certificates?
Halal certificates are issued by recognized halal certification bodies that have been accredited by relevant authorities or recognized by Islamic scholars and organizations.