Halal Certification: Understanding Key Standards for Food, Cosmetics, and Slaughtering
Halal certification is mandatory for firms within the UAE and GCC where consumers choose products that are in accordance with Islamic values and legal consumption.
Halal refers to something that is permitted by the Islamic Shariah law and it is applicable in a wide range of products, food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and meat products.
Halal standards are regulated in the UAE by certain norms set by the Emirates Authority of Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) and other Islamic organizations. The standards will make sure that the product does not contain any banned substances, sourced in an ethical manner, and manufactured according to Islamic regulations.
Three fundamental Halal standards that are commonly used in UAE and GCC markets are discussed below.
1. UAE.S 2055-1:2015 — General Requirements for Halal Foods
This standard is a guideline on how food products should be prepared, processed, packed, stored, and transported to be considered Halal.
Why this Standard is Used?
- Checks that food products are free of any Haram products (like pork, alcohol, non-Halal meat derivatives, etc.)
- Ensures that additives, flavorings, and food processing agents are Halal-compliant.
- Stops the cross-contamination of the Halal and non-Halal manufacturing lines.
- Establishes and safeguards consumer confidence particularly in high Muslim marketplaces.
This requirement is crucial to food manufacturers, restaurants, catering companies, and brands of FMCGs throughout the UAE.
2. UAE.S 2055-4:2014 — General Requirements for Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
Cosmetics may also be made of animal or chemical substances which are not allowed in Islamic law. This standard explains what can be done and how production has to be regulated.
Why this Standard is Used?
- Makes sure that all ingredients that are used in personal care products are Halal.
- Prohibits pig collagen, pig gelatin, or prohibited alcohol.
- Avoids contamination of non-Halal substances in the manufacturing process.
- Upholds market confidence and allows the cosmetics brands to reach Halal-conscious consumers.
It is applicable in skincare, haircare, perfumes, soaps, makeup products, and pharmaceuticals.
3. UAE.S 993:2022 — Animal Slaughtering Requirements According to Islamic Rules
The standard guarantees that the slaughtering and the processing of meat and poultry products are performed according to Islamic law.
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Why this Standard is Used?
- Makes sure the animal is healthy, alive, and humanely treated before slaughter.
- Demands that slaughter be carried out by a Muslim slaughterman reciting Tasmiyah.
- Only reversible stunning methods to be used where possible.
- Makes the blood fully drained, since blood-consumption is forbidden.
This is necessary in slaughterhouses, meat processing firms, poultry farms, and import-export industries.
Why Halal Certification is Needed?
- Mandatory for market entry in many product categories.
- Enhances brand loyalty to Muslims.
- Maintains adherence to the regulatory bodies such as:
- ESMA (UAE)
- SFDA (Saudi Arabia)
- MoPH (Qatar)
- Enhances global export opportunities, especially to Halal-driven markets such as Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
FAQs
Who issues Halal certification in the UAE?
Halal certification in UAE is regulated under ESMA-approved Certification Bodies and recognized Islamic authorities.
Why do cosmetics need Halal certification?
Cosmetics may contain animal fats, gelatin, collagen, or alcohol. Halal certification ensures ingredients are lawful and safe for Muslim consumers.
What products require Halal certification?
Food, beverages, supplements, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, slaughtered meat, poultry, and food contact materials.
What is Haram in food production?
Pork, blood, alcohol, carrion, and meat slaughtered without Islamic rules are considered Haram.
Can imported products be Halal certified?
Yes, imported products require Halal certification from an approved Halal authority recognized by UAE/GCC.
