As everywhere in the Islamic world, Muslim companies in America have to follow the rules of conduct in the Shari’a, especially the concepts of what is Halal – that which is permissible – and what is Haram – that which is not permissible. The Muslim consumer who wants to be sure about things purchased would want to see guarantees that the Muslim companies in America are practicing Halal.
It is therefore to the interests of the Muslim business owner to get a Halal certification. There are independent Islamic organizations that provide these certification services needed by the Muslim companies in America. The independent body’s certification is important so that any claims that Muslim companies in America make about complying with Halal regulations will not be considered self-serving. Those Muslim companies found to be in compliance will receive an appropriate symbol, which is the sign to every Muslim consumer that the products of the concerned Muslim companies in America are following the strictest Halal standards.
Various Muslim companies in America already have the Halal certification. These include hotels and restaurants, producers of bread products, cheeses and dairy products, egg products, dressings and other condiments, ice creams and desserts, oils and shortening, pharmaceutical products, seafood products, snack foods, spices and seasonings, beverages and flavorings. Certainly, meats and poultry should be Halal-certified.
The certification process is very thorough. If a product is to be certified as Halal, then all of its ingredients should also be Halal. In addition, there are other factors that will affect the Halal status. For instance, the people involved in the production must also be Halal, and this includes the person in charge, those who order the raw materials and those in charge of packaging.
Muslim companies in America should make detailed preparations when obtaining Halal certification. Once they have submitted their application for certification, the certifying agency will require Muslim companies in America to submit logistical information, a list of products to be certified, ingredients, and the production plants used. Thorough inspections of the plants and manufacturing process will be conducted. If necessary, the certifying agency may recommend changes to ensure conformity with Halal. On the average, Muslim companies in America wait about three weeks to complete the certification process.
