Halal is an Arabic word that means "permissible" according to Islamic law. In terms of food, it means food that is permissible according to Islamic law. Halal meat is meat that has been slaughtered by Islamic law. Here are some key points about halal meat:
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Types of meat: Beef, lamb, chicken, fish, venison, and game birds are considered halal.
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Slaughtering process: The Islamic form of slaughtering animals or poultry, dhabiha, involves killing through a cut to the jugular vein, carotid artery, and windpipe. Animals must be alive and healthy at the time of slaughter, and all blood must be drained from the carcass. During the process, a Muslim will recite a dedication, known as tasmiya or shahada.
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Forbidden cuts and animals: For a meat to be certified halal, it cannot be a forbidden cut (such as meat from hindquarters) or animal (such as pork) .
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Stunning: There is debate about whether stunning is allowed in halal meat production. Stunning cannot be used to kill an animal, according to the Halal Food Authority (HFA), a non-profit organization that monitors adherence to halal principles. But it can be used if the animal survives and is then killed by halal methods.
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Certification: Many Muslims can shop with ease at a local halal market, where all of the products are designated halal. For a meat to be certified halal, it must be slaughtered in a specific way.
Halal meat is an important concept and belief associated with food for the Muslim community, and foods that are not permitted are called haram.
