Halal beverages are consumable products that follow Islamic dietary laws. These laws, which specify what is allowed (Halal) and what is prohibited (Haram) for Muslims to eat, are taken from the Quran, the holy book of Islam, and the Hadith, the sayings and customs of the Prophet Muhammad. Let’s take a closer look at Halal beverages in detail.
Fruit juices are considered Halal beverages
Which beverages are not considered Halal?
The guidelines for Halal beverages strongly emphasize cleanliness and purity and exclude certain additives, such as alcohol and pork products. Any beverage, such as the following list, that does not meet these requirements is not Halal.
Alcohol
In Islam, alcohol-containing beverages are categorically forbidden (haram). This includes beer, wine, and spirits. As per the Quran, alcohol consumption is deemed sinful.
Because such behaviour can erode one’s relationship with God, impair judgment, and encourage immoral behaviour. It can also damage the body, impair mental health, and result in addiction.
Beverages with animal-based additives
Beverages containing pork-derived ingredients are not halal. Islamic belief holds that pork can carry bacteria, parasites, and illnesses that are harmful to human health. The prohibition serves as a protective measure for the well-being of believers.
Many additives used in beverages like flavorings, colorings or emulsifiers (gelatin-based) can come from animals or contain alcohol. Any beverage that can’t verify the sources of these additives could not be considered Halal.
Fermented beverages (or beverages with alcohol-based ingredients)
Fermented drinks, especially those containing alcohol, are considered haram in Islamic dietary laws. This includes cider, kombucha, sake, mead, champagne, etc.
Fermented beverages often contain alcohol as a natural byproduct of the fermentation process. Alcohol is considered impure in Islam, and therefore, its consumption is strictly forbidden.
Dairy products
The intention behind consuming halal beverages and food is to maintain spiritual purity and obedience to God’s commands. It is critical to consider the source and processing techniques when determining the halal status of dairy products.
Dairy products sometimes include shortenings or fats derived from animals. These fats can come from various sources, including non-halal animals. Besides, the products could be Haram if the animals are sick or diseased, or if the slaughtering process does not follow Islamic law.
Some examples of potential haram dairy products are:
- Yogurts, if they contain gelatin or certain emulsifiers from non-halal sources.
- Cheeses, especially those made with animal rennet or enzymes derived from non-halal animals.
- Ice Creams, if they contain gelatin, certain emulsifiers, or flavourings with alcohol.
- Dairy or milk that come from farms without Halal certificates.
The most common types of Halal beverages
Halal beverages are drinks that comply with Islamic dietary laws, ensuring that they do not contain alcohol or any other haram ingredients. Many drinks satisfy the tastes of a wide range of individuals while still upholding religious principles. Examples of these include:
Juices
Fruit juices (such as orange, apple, or grape) are Halal. They offer natural sweetness and vitamins. However, these juices must be devoid of non-halal ingredients and additional alcohol.
Kombucha
Kombucha is made via the fermentation process, which can usually generate some alcohol by-products. However, kombucha usually contains a trace amount of alcohol (lower than 0.5%). This amount can also be easily filtered out and evaporated. As a result, drinking kombucha won’t make you intoxicated, making it Halal.
Coffee and tea
Tea, including black, green, and herbal teas, is considered Halal beverages. In the same way, coffee brewed from coffee beans is permitted. Just avoid any additives that might not be allowed. For instance, if milk is added, it needs to be Halal.
Sodas and other soft drinks
Nowadays, most soft drinks are regarded as Halal beverages since they are devoid of animal ingredients and are not alcoholic. Some examples include Coca-Cola and other carbonated soft drinks and non-carbonated options like iced tea and lemonades.
Soft drinks that do not contain alcohol are regarded as Halal beverages
Vegan jelly drinks
Most drinks with jelly added are not made with gelatin. Instead, they typically use organic aloe vera and coconut jelly, which are halal and free of animal ingredients.
When selecting a Halal beverage, seeking out Halal certification is of utmost importance. This certification guarantees that all ingredients and production processes adhere to Islamic dietary laws, ensuring the highest standards of Halal compliance.
Halal certification for beverages
Halal certification is important to ensuring that beverages comply with Islamic dietary laws. It is a rigorous process that thoroughly inspects ingredients, production methods, and facilities to ensure compliance with halal principles. While halal principles are universal among Muslims, each region has its own certification bodies and requirements.
The Middle East, Malaysia, and Indonesia are the three central Islamic regions recognized worldwide for their Halal certification standards. Each certificate is only accepted in its area.
- Middle East (Arab Countries): Countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates play a significant role in halal certification. These countries have well-established halal certification bodies that ensure compliance with Islamic dietary laws. They also serve as key influencers in setting global halal standards.
- Malaysia: a global hub for halal certification. The country has a comprehensive system for halal certification.
- Indonesia: the largest Muslim population globally, making it a crucial player in halal certification.
HALAL JAKIM
Halal JAKIM refers to the halal certification provided by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM). JAKIM certifies products such as food, drinks, cosmetics, and medications. Its halal logo is widely recognized and trusted by Muslim consumers in Malaysia and beyond.
Standard Halal logo by JAKIM
HALAL GCC
Halal GCC refers to a specific halal certification scheme designed for food products. It is significant for exporting to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market, which includes countries such as Dubai (UAE), Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, etc. The GCC Accreditation Center (GAC) provides accreditation services for halal certification according to the standard GSO 2055-2:20212. This certification guarantees that the products fulfill the dietary requirements of Islam and can be consumed by Muslims in these areas.
Standard Halal logo by GAC
HALAL MUI
Halal MUI stands for the halal certification issued by LPPOM MUI, or the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Assessment Institute of the Indonesian Council of Ulama. As Indonesia’s first halal inspection agency, LPPOM MUI has verified the halal status of goods for over 34 years. They work with business partners in over 65 countries to ensure the halalness of their products. Their strong data resources and infrastructure allow them to provide effective solutions in the halal assurance system.
Standard Halal logo by MUI
Conclusion
Halal beverages, as defined in the Quran, are gaining global recognition and demand. As the awareness and preference for Halal products continue to rise, obtaining and maintaining Halal certification will be a strategic move for businesses aiming to thrive in this dynamic and expanding sector.
