What is Halal
Halal is an Arabic word that means permitted or lawful in Islam. In relation to consumer goods (foods, cosmetics, medicines, etc.), it simply means permissible to consume. Halal products are those that are:
- Free from any component that is prohibited from consumption according to Islam.
- Made, processed, manufactured and/ or stored using utensils, equipment and/or machinery that has been cleaned according to Islam.
- Free from contact with or being exposed to, a haram substance during preparation, manufacture, processing and storage.
What is Haram?
A product which does not comply with the above specifications of ‘Halal’ is termed ‘Haram’ or that which is unlawful or prohibited in Islam. Some substances that are considered Haram include:
- Alcoholic drinks and intoxicants
- Non-Halal Animal Fat
- Enzymes from animals or enzymes grown on animal media (Microbial Enzymes are permissible)
- Gelatine – from non-Halal source (fish gelatine is Halal)
- L-cysteine (if from human hair or pig’s bristles)
- Lipase (only animal lipase needs be avoided)
- Pork and pork by-products (e.g. porcine gelatine)
- Carnivorous animals, birds of prey, carrion and amphibians
- Foods contaminated with any of the above products
What is Halal Certification?
Halal certification is awarded when a product’s content and manufacture has been in accordance to the dietary laws as prescribed in the Quran. Halal certification can be obtained for products, facilities and processes from the appropriate certification authorities.
A Halal certificate is a document that guarantees that products and services are compliant with halal requirements.
Halal Certification for Complementary Medicines
The Complementary Medicines industry is expanding globally and as such, greater emphasis is being placed on the need to accommodate to the specific requirements of certain populations.
As global awareness for the specialized needs of the Muslim population (a sizable portion estimated at 1.6 billion consumers) grows, there is immense potential for sponsors to establish their brands in regions with Muslim majorities and minorities. Sponsors are increasingly seeking halal certification of their products for the opportunity to tap into this growing and high demand market.
In Australia, there are several halal certification bodies. These organisations assess a company’s halal status throughout the entire manufacturing process to ensure strict compliance of the regulations and guidelines.
It is important to note that many countries have their own halal regulations and sponsors must consider these differences when applying for halal certification of their products.
Author: Anu Kshirsagar
January 2018
Vitex Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd www.vitexpharma.com
