What is Halal Food?
The term "halal" in Arabic means "permissible" or "lawful". When used in the context of food, halal refers to food items and food productions that are in accordance with Islamic Sharia laws. For a food to be considered halal, it must meet certain requirements such as:
- The food item should not consist of any pork, pig derivatives or ingredients made from it. Pork and pig by-products are strictly prohibited in Islam.
- Animal slaughtering must be performed in the prescribed Islamic way. Animals need to be slaughtered by cutting the jugular vein, carotid artery and windpipe while invoking God's name. Meat from animals that died due to other methods or were not slaughtered properly is considered haram or unlawful.
- Alcoholic or intoxicating ingredients should not be used in preparing or processing the food. Certain by-products derived from alcohol are also not allowed.
- Carnivorous animals and birds of prey with fangs like lions, tigers, etc. are not permitted for consumption.
- Food should not consist of any components originating from animals forbidden in Islam like snakes, scorpions, land animals without external ears etc.
Some key facts about the halal food industry include:
- The top 5 countries accounting for over 60% of the total Halal Food are Iran, Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Arab nations. Malaysia and Indonesia are also emerging as leading halal hubs.
- Meat, poultry, beverages, snacks, herbs & spices and personal care products make up the major categories in the halal food space. Meat/poultry accounts for over 30% of the global spend.
- Non-OIC Muslim countries like India, China, USA and Western Europe contribute nearly 30% to overall halal food demand. Export revenue from halal products is growing fast in many nations.
- Halal food certification involves auditing supplier facilities, ingredients, production systems and ensuring standardized processes. Over 150 certification agencies are active globally.
- Manufacturers are launching more value-added, functional halal foods to suit health-conscious, affluent consumers. Categories include organic, ready-to-eat, infant formulas etc.
- Technology startups are modernizing aspects like authentication, traceability, cold-chain infrastructure and e-commerce for halal food businesses. Blockchain use is set to rise.
Rising Demand Drivers for Halal Food
There are multiple factors responsible for the remarkable upswing in global halal food demand:
Growing Muslim Population
With Islam being the second largest and one of the fastest growing religions, the worldwide Muslim population has surged from 1.8 billion in 2010 to approximately 2.3 billion in 2020. Younger demographics with increased spending power are key consumers.
Urbanization & Affluence
As Muslim communities urbanize rapidly in Southeast Asia, Middle East and African countries, their lifestyles and dietary habits are seeing a massive transformation. Common citizens now enjoy better earnings and prioritize quality halal options.
Stricter Adherence to Religious Practices
Over the last decade or two, observance of core Muslim religious doctrines pertaining to permissible food items has become more stringent across societies. This has mainstreamized halal food culture.
Increased Awareness & Transparency
Efforts by certification bodies, advocacy groups and the Islamic food industry are helping consumers identify authentic halal offerings easily. Brands compete through transparency on sourcing and manufacturing.
Globalization of Islamic Trade & Tourism
Greater cross-border trade links, travelers and expatriate communities mean international halal food firms see strong export prospects tapping the widespread demand base. This fuels global halal food exchange.
Strict regulations in the West have boosted the growth of alternative protein options in recent years. Plant-based meats are enjoying acceptance in the halal category due to assurances on non-animal origins.
Get More Insights on Halal Food
