Asalamualaikum

There is no doubt that the Halal food industry has an impact on the way companies view their markets, especially in recent years. Halal products are poised to grow. Growth in this sector, according to Food Processing Magazine, “is one of the six hottest trends in the food industry this year.”

According to Business Week, Jan. 2007, “59% of Muslim adults in the U.S. have a college degree, compared with only 28% of all American adults. Surveys show that median family income among America’s Muslims exceeds the national figure of $55,800.” A 2004 Zogby International poll, reports that one in three Muslims earns more than $75,000 annually. The figures reflect favorably as to the purchasing power of Muslims in America.

We had our own International Halal Food Conference and Meeting from April 21 – April 24. The theme was Opportunities in the World Halal Food Trade. And to think that this movement began only a few decades ago, with a few well-intentioned Muslims who were committed to eating Zabiha, Halal. Who could have imagined that, one day, companies would change the way they manufacture their products, in order to meet Halal standards? But we can’t ask companies to make their products Halal, only you the consumer can. Halal certification will guarantee that items such as chips, cheese, nachos or your favorite pizza, are truly Halal.

On another note, there is no dearth of unscrupulous individuals willing to falsely claim their products as Halal. Illinois Halal Food Law, soon to be enforced, comes to our rescue. Its implementation would make it a misdemeanor in Illinois, to claim Halal status for products that aren’t Halal.

As always, if you have a question as to what is Halal and what isn’t, do drop us a line. We look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Muhammad Munir Chaudry
President, IFANCA