The Uttar Pradesh government's Food Safety and Drug Administration imposed a ban on Halal-certified products in November 2023. The Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind Halal Trust challenged this decision by filing a writ petition in the Supreme Court. The Trust has now submitted a new affidavit in the case.
Trust's Objection in Supreme Court
The Trust has protested Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's comments regarding Halal certification. The Trust claims that these comments have fueled further controversy surrounding the Halal certification process. A Halal certificate is documentation confirming that a product has been manufactured according to Islamic principles. This is not limited to meat products but also extends to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and even packaged food items.
How to Obtain Halal Certification: The Entire Process
Companies seeking Halal certification for their products must undergo a specific process. They need to contact an authorized Halal certification body. Experts from the body conduct thorough examinations of the product and its ingredients. Compliance with hygiene standards is also verified.
The process ensures that the product does not contain pork, alcohol, blood, or any other substance prohibited under Islamic law. The Halal certificate is issued only after the completion of the testing process.
Validity of Halal Certificates
The Halal certification process includes laboratory testing for some products to ensure the absence of any ingredients that would violate Halal standards. If the product meets all conditions, it is granted a Halal certificate. Typically, this certificate is valid for one to three years. Re-inspections of product quality are also conducted periodically.
Products Covered by Halal Certification
Halal certification is issued for various products, including food items, restaurant-served food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. Furthermore, Halal certification is provided for other consumer goods to ensure their compliance with Islamic standards.
In India, numerous authorized bodies, recognized by international Islamic organizations, are responsible for issuing Halal certificates. Prominent among these are the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind Halal Trust, Halal India Private Limited, Halal Certification Services India Private Limited, and the Halal Council of India.
