Halal

Halal refers to foods prepared according to Islamic law, as defined in the Quran. This means the food must be made from permitted ingredients and processed by a Muslim, or by someone who has undergone training in Halal procedures. The food must also be kept separate from non-Halal foods during preparation and storage.

Halal certification is primarily a religious designation, not a functional ingredient. Manufacturers seek this certification to assure Muslim consumers that the product meets Islamic dietary standards. It is often applied to a wide range of products, including candies, gelatin-based desserts, and baked goods, to indicate compliance with Halal requirements.

Halal is a religious dietary standard and does not have direct health implications in the way that nutrients or additives do. The FDA does not regulate Halal status, but products labeled as Halal must still comply with all FDA food safety regulations. International bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) do not evaluate Halal status as it is not a food additive or nutrient.