‘Halal’, a term used to address ‘permissible’ items for the followers of Islam. Though no government-led organisations issue halal certified products, some private companies take this up on their own.
Initially, halal certification was provided for slaughtered meat products that were procured as per the Islamic laws, but now this extends to other products as well. Also, there is a term, haram which is just opposite to halal that means ‘not permissible’. For many of you, these terms may be new or unfamiliar, so, we have curated this blog to help you better understand halal certified meaning, haram certification, foods under these, and the benefits of halal foods for your health.
What is Halal Certified Meaning?
Halal certified meaning signifies the food items that are allowed to be consumed by the people of the Islamic community. Halal product certification is also issued to other products, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Some private companies like Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust and Halal India Pvt Ltd. issue this halal cert to food products.
Halal vs Haram Food Products
As per Islamic laws, halal cert meat products need the slaughtering of animals right through the throat, oesophagus, and jugular veins of the neck region. On the other hand, haram meat is produced using the jhatka method. In this technique, there is a direct and blunt blow to the neck of the animal, which is prohibited in Islam.
Now, let’s look at the food products with haram and halal licences:
| Halal Food Products | Haram Food Products |
| Seafood | Pigs |
| Nuts | Dogs |
| Eggs | Donkeys |
| Tofu | Cats |
| Legumes | Alcohol |
| Meat and poultry | Intoxicating plants |
These are just a few examples of halal and haram food products.
Benefits of Consuming Halal Certified Foods
If you can consume halal certified products, it brings multiple benefits to your health. We will discuss the benefits of each one of the foods listed above. Have a look at it here:
Seafood
Seafood is a wonderful source of essential nutrients. This food has low saturated fats, high protein content, and nutrients, including vitamins A and B. Cumulatively, such nutrition keeps your brain, eyes, and immune health in optimal condition.
Also, seafood offers skin and hair health benefits for people with dry skin. Since it has omega-3, seafood provides nourishment to your hair and deeply moisturises your skin.
Nuts
Nuts have high calories and fats. They can be used to cook your favourite dishes or munch as snacks. Some common nuts include almonds, peanuts, cashews, hazelnuts, and pine nuts. They are packed with antioxidants, carbs, fats, protein, fibre, magnesium, zinc, and a few calories.
Eggs
Another food in halal food certification is eggs. Being nutrient-dense and loaded with rich quality protein, eggs keep up with your good health. As it is permissible as halal product certification, you can include them in your breakfast routine. When your body acquires antioxidants from eggs, it helps keep your cells healthy. The protein amount in eggs contributes to building and repairing your muscles. Consumption of eggs is beneficial for your portion control as well. It keeps you full for a long time.
Tofu
Generally, tofu is condensed soy milk that is pressed into varying-sized blocks to consume. It is solidified using Nigari, a coagulant. This is left over after salt is extracted from seawater. Tofu has isoflavones, and foods with this compound are found to be helpful in reducing the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Moreover, adding tofu to your diet boosts bone strength, improves brain functioning, and possesses antidepressant effects.
Legumes
Legumes are plant foods that split open and have a seed inside. Soy, peas, and beans are good examples of it. These edibles have good fibre content with B vitamins, folate, potassium, calcium, and much more. These help regulate your bowel movements, lower blood pressure, maintain blood sugar levels and gut health, and prevent loss of bone mineral density.
Meat and Poultry
Meat and poultry food is important for the healthy growth and development of your body. These foods power your body and fuel it with essential vitamins and minerals. Aiding in weight loss, meat and poultry foods also promote energy flow and have digestible proteins and minerals like zinc, iron, and copper. It also increases creatine levels in your body, which are needed for muscle tissue and improves brain health. Selenium from these foods helps in DNA formation and protection against cell damage.
Conclusion
Halal and haram food certifications are common in India, and the products under the former category are consumed by the Ismalic community. Some of the halal products significantly contribute to boosting your overall well-being. Tofu, eggs, legumes, and nuts are some foods with the label – halal product certification. From maintaining your blood sugar levels to reducing your weight, halal foods are irreplaceable. If you are allergic to any type of food, ensure you consult a doctor before adding them to your diet.
