Halal food is any food that is permissible under Islamic law, as defined in the Quran. The Islamic dietary laws specify that all food and beverages are considered Halal unless explicitly stated as forbidden. The term Halal is Arabic for "permissible" and refers to what is allowed under Islamic law. The opposite of Halal is Haram, which means "forbidden" or "unlawful".

To be considered Halal, food must meet certain criteria, including:

• Ingredients: Halal food must be free of ingredients derived from haram sources, such as pork and its by-products, donkeys, mules, horses, fanged animals, birds of prey, and reptiles. Dairy and eggs are often produced by methods involving non-halal animal slaughter, and cheese may also contain non-halal animal rennet. Some animals are often fed non-halal products as part of their diet, including pork by-products and potentially also non-halal pharmaceuticals.

• Preparation: Halal food must be prepared with minimal suffering to the animal and the pronouncement of Gods name during the slaughter, as the animal is being sacrificed to Him. The most common example of haram (non-halal) food is pork, which is strictly forbidden. While pork is the only meat that categorically may not be consumed by Muslims, other foods not in a state of purity are also considered haram. Animals that are always haram to eat include carnivores, carrion eaters, and pigs. Non-sea animals must be ritually slaughtered by cutting through the jugular vein, carotid artery, and windpipe, and the animal must be alive and healthy at the time of slaughter. No sick animals, roadkill, decapitation, or stunning is allowed.

• Utensils and equipment: Using utensils and equipment that have not been contaminated with haram substances is also required.

Halal certification is a formal recognition by a credible organization that a food product, its ingredients, and the process involved in its creation comply with the principles of Islamic dietary laws. This certification is a reliable indicator for Muslims, identifying permissible products for consumption according to Islamic law.

In summary, to be considered Halal, food must meet specific criteria related to ingredients, preparation, and utensils and equipment. Halal certification is a formal recognition that a food product complies with Islamic dietary laws.