Halal Opportunities

According to US-based non-profit organization Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, there are currently 1.6 billion Muslims in the world who follow a Halal diet as part of their Islamic religion. They make up 25% of the world’s population and are thriving in the growing economies in Asia.

To create halal food products, manufacturers are required to prepare them following a set of Islamic dietary laws and regulations, which determine what is permissible, lawful and clean. Such production processes are subject to strict evaluations and enforcement by Halal certifi cation bodies and quality offi cers, thereby tightening the supply chain and assuring consumers of religiously permissible food.

According to the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the global halal food market has grown quickly over the past decade, and it is now worth an estimated $632 billion annually. Analysts expect this fi gure to grow, as non-Muslim consumers consider Halal certifi ed food to be healthy, safe and the animals are treated humanely before they are slaughtered.

By producing Halal-certifi ed products, manufacturers can further assure consumers of product quality and differentiate their offerings in the midst of competition. They can also enjoy a reputation of being sensitive to the Muslim culture and are amicable to cater to new dietary norms. It may not be long before Halal-certifi ed products take up more space on the supermarket shelves, as we are seeing more industry interest and discussions at exhibitions, conferences and in the media.

P.S.: Thank you for faithfully reading Asia Food Journal this year. We look forward to bring you the latest in the F&B manufacturing scene next year. We wish you and your loved ones the best of health and a fruitful 2012.