What is important for a Muslim to know when buying food?

If you are trying to stick to a halal diet, the words “no pork” or “beef” are not enough. It’s important to look deeper: into the composition and additives.

• E441 — GelatinAlmost always of animal origin, most often from pork. • E471, E472 — EmulsifiersMay be derived from animal fat — if it is not indicated that they are vegetable, it is better to clarify. • E422 — GlycerinCan be both vegetable and animal. If from pork fat — haram. • E120 — Carmine 🐞A dye obtained from insects. Not always haram, but may be undesirable. • E904 — ShellacFood glaze, also produced from insects. • Flavorings with ethanol 🍰Alcohol, even in small amounts, makes the product haram. Often found in desserts, icing, baked goods.

Sausages, dumplings, canned goods, semi-finished products — even if the packaging says “beef” or “chicken”, it is important how exactly the animal was slaughtered. If not halal — the product is haram.

• Look for a halal certificate from reliable organizations • Check E-additives through authoritative lists • Use apps that help to quickly understand the composition

For example:

• Scan Halal • Muslim Pro (food section) • Or our favorite 😉 — ohmygoods.app/en

We know how to show questionable additives and talk about them in simple language accessible to everyone

If there is doubt about the composition — it is better to refuse than to risk. After all, halal — is not only about meat, but also about caring for purity and intention.