A comprehensive guide to Halal and Haram

Prophet Muhammad (S) said:

“The halal is that which Allah has made lawful in His Book and the haram is that which He has forbidden, and that concerning which He is silent, He has permitted as a favour to you. ‘

(Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah) 

What is Halal

Halal is an Arabic word which translates to “Permissible” according to the principles of Islam, whereas the opposite is “Haram” which signifies things that are Non- Permissible or forbidden. Many people associate “Halal” solely with food and drinks. The concept of Halal encompasses all aspects of a Muslim’s life, from the food we consume and the clothing we choose to the way we earn our income and conduct ourselves in society. .

Halal and Haram apply to a wide range of aspects in a Muslim’s life, some key areas:

Food and Drink

Financial Conduct

Clothing and Appearance

Personal Conduct

Cosmetics and Pharmaceutical

Halal Food and Permissible animals 

Most foods and drinks are permissible (Halal) by default, except for those explicitly mentioned as forbidden (Haram) in the Quran or authentic sayings of Prophet Muhammad (Hadith). 

Some of the foods considered Halal are: 

Meat- Permissible animals

Milk- cows, sheep and goats

Seafood:Most fish and shellfish are considered Halal.

Eggs

Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt) from Halal-slaughtered animals

Honey

Fruits and vegetables

Grains (rice, wheat, oats, etc.)

Nuts and seeds

Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)

Permissible animals

• Cattle (cows, bulls)

• Sheep

• Goats

• Camels

• Deer

• Antelope

• Buffalo 

• Chicken

• Duck (by some interpretations)

• Turkey

• Guineafowl

• Pigeon

• Most fish and shellfish are considered Halal.

Things to consider

Halal certificates and logos: Each country has a Halal certification body so keep an eye out for the Halal Certificates and logos.

Websites and apps: Most Islamic websites and apps provide information on Halal food and ingredients. 

Haram food and non permissible animals

… He (Allah) has explained to you what He has made haram for you ” (Al-Qur’an 6:119) 

Most foods and drinks are permissible (Halal) by default, except for those explicitly mentioned as forbidden (Haram) in the Quran or authentic sayings of Prophet Muhammad (Hadith). 

Haram foods 

Meat- Non-permissible items

Alcoholic drinks & Intoxicants

Blood

Anything containing prohibited ingredients (pork derivatives, alcohol)

Non- permissible animals

• Fox 

• Cat 

• Dog

• Elephant

• Monkey

• Tiger 

• Snake

• Frog

• Bear

• Lion

• Swine

• Carnivorous animals

• Birds of prey with talons (eagles, hawks)

• Animals that died before slaughter (carrion)

• Animals that were strangled, beaten, or killed in a fall

Things to Consider

Unintentional consumption: If someone consumes Haram food unintentionally then it is not considered a Sin.

Being Well Informed: Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge and keep themselves well Informed about Halal and Haram.