Halal is an Arabic term meaning "permissible" or "lawful" according to Islamic law. It primarily refers to what is acceptable for Muslims to eat and drink based on teachings in the Quran
. Key aspects of halal include:
- Foods and drinks must not contain any forbidden (haram) substances such as pork, alcohol, or intoxicants
- Animals must be slaughtered following specific Islamic procedures called Zabihah, which involve a swift cut to the jugular vein while invoking the name of God ("bismillah") to drain the blood, as blood is considered haram
- The animal must be treated well before slaughter and killed humanely and quickly
- Halal also encompasses cleanliness, purity, and ethical considerations, such as avoiding harmful ingredients and ensuring hygienic preparation and storage
Halal is not limited to food but extends to permissible actions and behaviors in Islam, with its opposite being haram, meaning forbidden
. In summary, halal means anything that is lawful or permitted under Islamic law, especially regarding food and drink, which must meet specific religious criteria to be considered halal