Assalamu Alaikum

The year has come to an end and, as always, there has been lots going on. The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Food Expo was held July 28 – Aug. 1, 2007 in Chicago. This issue, we’ll take you on an insider’s journey and visit some of our clients’ booths at the IFT Expo. It’s truly a revelation to learn of all the components that go into creating that slice of toast or bowl of oatmeal you had this morning – think Lego or a jigsaw puzzle. As for our regular feature on select IFANCA certified companies – yum as usual! Be prepared to be surprised as to who we’ve got covered!

For our cover story, we’ve featured the Rolls Royce of Flatbreads – IFANCA halal-certified Kontos, and we know you’ll never look at pita bread the same way again. This issue, we have the honor of introducing you to the team at IFANCA who work behind the scenes to keep things humming. And to all the manufacturers of halal goods, we’d like you to meet Don Tymchuck, of Med-Diet Inc., a distributor interested in doing business.

On page 20, Food Scientist, Suzann Audi has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed choice when it comes to fresh, frozen or canned fruits and veggies. To add some more sizzle to your next party menu, we have festive recipes from kitchens around the Muslim world.

Finally, giving thanks is never far from our mind, and we assume yours too, so we take this opportunity to thank all those who made the AMAL and Sabeel Food Pantry Thanksgiving Turkey Drive a success late last year and wish to welcome all those who have returned from the Hajj.

Sincerely,

Naazish YarKhan
Managing Editor