What does "Halal" really mean? And how is it different from "Kosher"

Halal means "permissible" in Arabic, a term that governs all aspects of life, particularly food and dietary habits. Originating from Islamic law, which is followed by over 1.8 billion people globally, the term Halal is derived from the Qur'an and the Hadith. These religious texts distinctly outline which foods are considered Halal or considered Haram (unlawful). 

Halal in the Food Industry 

In the food industry, Halal food certification ensures that the meat and other foods meet strict Islamic dietary laws or Sharīʿah, derived from both the Qur'an and Hadith. Certified Halal foods like our beef jerky adhere to Halal guidelines at every stage of food production: 

• Farm: Animals are humanely treated and fed a Halal or vegetarian diet.  
• Slaughterhouse: The slaughter of animals is done by a Muslim, with a verbal blessing and a cut to the jugular vein to drain the blood. 
• Processing: Halal meat avoids cross-contamination with non-Halal items and prohibits using alcohol or any alcohol-derived ingredients. 
• Cooking: No cross-contamination can occur, and alcohol or wine is not used in meal preparation. 

Clearing Common Misconceptions: Halal is Not Mediterranean Food 

A widespread misunderstanding is conflating Halal food with Mediterranean cuisine. However, Halal is not a type of cuisine but an ethical and religious standard that can apply to various culinary traditions, from American to Asian. 

At Faith Meats, we recognize that religious dietary laws are not merely business guidelines; they represent a deep-rooted commitment to our community's ethical and spiritual well-being. Halal and Kosher have their roots in Islamic and Jewish laws, respectively, and share commonalities due to their Abrahamic heritage. Despite these shared origins, there are distinct differences worth noting. 

Abrahamic Commonalities 

Islam, Christianity, and Judaism share more than just a monotheistic belief. They all trace their spiritual lineage to the Prophet Abraham. All three faiths have narratives about Adam, the flood, and, most prominently, Abraham, who is a pivotal figure in these traditions. In Islam, Abraham is credited with building the Kaaba in Mecca, a sacred site for Muslims. 

Who Performs the Slaughter? 

• Halal: A Muslim individual must conduct the Zabiha, the Islamic ritual slaughter. The name of Allah is invoked during this process, as stipulated in the Quran. 
• Kosher: A trained Jewish individual, known as a "Shochet," carries out the Shechita, the kosher method of slaughter. Although no specific prayer is mandated, the act must be in compliance with Jewish laws. 

Health Benefits of Choosing Halal Beef Jerky 

Choosing Halal beef jerky contributes to a healthy lifestyle: 

• Humane Animal Treatment: Halal certification ensures ethical treatment from farm to fork. 
• Natural Ingredients: We use all-natural, gluten-free, and preservative-free ingredients. 
• Diet Flexibility: Our Halal beef jerky fits seamlessly into various diets, including paleo and keto. 

Your Path to Holistic Well-being 

When you align your dietary habits with your beliefs, it becomes easier to make healthier choices, read food labels more critically, and opt for wholesome, ethical sources of nutrition. This healthy habit can have a profound impact on your mental health and physical health. 

Conclusion 

Halal isn't just a label—it's the foundation of our ethos at Faith Meats. We create products that offer more than just great taste; they offer a window into a lifestyle that values ethical treatment of animals, quality nutrition, and overall wellness. Our Halal-certified beef jerky is not just a snack; it's a testament to a life well-lived, fully aligned with Halal guidelines and Islamic law.