What is halal certification? Halal certification confirms that products such as food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals have been produced and processed in compliance with Islamic law.
Why do I need to get halal certification? To provide safe and permissible products to Muslim consumers. Halal certification guarantees that the product is in compliance with Islamic law.
Can I use a product without Halal certification? A product can be halal without halal certification if the ingredients and production process comply with Islamic law, but Muslim consumers tend to trust halal certification.
What conditions must be met to be halal certified? The product's ingredients, processing, storage, packaging, and distribution must comply with Islamic law, which prohibits the use of pork or alcohol.
Halal certification process
How does the halal certification process work? Businesses apply to a halal certification organisation, undergo a document review and on-site inspection, and are issued a certificate if they meet the criteria.
How long does it take to get halal certification? The certification process varies by country and product, but it can typically take a few weeks to a few months.
Is there a cost for halal certification? Yes, there are costs associated with the certification application, audit, and issuance process, which can vary by country and organisation.
Is there any maintenance required after Halal certification? Once you are certified, you will still need to undergo regular inspections and maintain the standards to ensure your certification lasts. Re-audits and renewal processes may be required.
Can all products be halal certified? No. Products that contain ingredients prohibited by Islamic law, such as pork and alcohol, cannot be halal certified.
What does halal certification cover?
Does Halal certification only apply to food? No. Halal certification applies to a wide range of products, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, clothing, food and beverages, and more.
Can non-food products be halal certified? Yes, non-food products such as cosmetics, medicines, and hygiene products can be halal certified, as long as they comply with Islamic law.
Is halal certification related to food safety? Halal certification not only ensures that a product is in compliance with Islamic law, but also that it was produced under clean and safe conditions.
Is Halal certification only valid in certain countries? Halal certifications are valid by default in the country where they are issued, but some countries may not recognise certifications from other countries. It's important to ensure that your certification is internationally recognised.
Is Halal certification required for non-Muslims? Halal certification is aimed at Muslim consumers, but because it focuses on quality and cleanliness, non-Muslims may also prefer it.
Regulations around halal certification
What are the issues with Muslims using products that are not halal certified? Products without halal certification may not comply with Islamic law and may cause religious problems for Muslim consumers.
How are halal certification organisations governed? Governments and Islamic associations in each country oversee halal certification organisations to ensure that standards are applied consistently.
Are there any legal requirements for halal certification? In some countries, such as Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, halal certification is legally required, and it may be illegal to label a product as ‘halal’ without certification.
What are the penalties for labelling a product as halal when it is not halal certified? Labelling products as ‘halal’ without halal certification can be legally problematic and subject to penalties, depending on the country of distribution.
How does the halal certification renewal process work? Halal certification needs to be renewed at regular intervals, and is re-inspected to ensure that the product continues to comply with Islamic law.