If you are a Muslim and you like to travel a lot to different destinations, the first thing that probably pops in your mind is where can I find the best halal food near me? This was an issue that concerned a lot of Muslim travellers in the past. On top of that, many of them were concerned about suitable places to perform their daily prayers and Muslim friendly accommodations to spent the nights in.

However, now with globalisation and the proliferation of Muslim travellers around the world, many countries have found creative ways to cater to the needs of the Muslim people. Many halal eateries have popped up in obscure and famous cities such as halal food in bangkok and other cities. Hotels have started to accommodate Muslims’ needs and provide Muslim friendly amenities. There are also many places of interest that cater to Muslim needs and have activities and shops that are Muslim friendly.

In fact, the halal market is growing bigger and bigger, each and every day. Some Western manufacturers have spotted a good market to tap on. Investments over the past ten years in Europe have been significant, even though traditional butchers and grocery stores still hold eighty percent of this market. Globally, the halal market is estimated to be worth around 455 billion euros or sixteen percent of the global food industry.

However, today’s market extends to non-Muslims as well since, for some non-Muslims, halal products are considered to be of better quality. In particular, certified halal meat would taste different from “ordinary” meat.

Moreover, halal extends beyond food, in particular meat, drinks, or fast food, and can also be found in cosmetics such as varnish, lipstick, creams, and much more. So how do the modes of production differ? And do they provide nutritional benefits? Let’s explore the meaning of halal in the Muslim world to have a better understanding.

What is Halal?
Etymologically, halal in Arabic is lawful, which is allowed, as opposed to haram, forbidden. Thus, there are foods that are halal and others that are not. In the second category, we will, of course, find alcohol and pork. Contrary to what some non-Muslims sometimes know about the subject, food such as duck and all seafood are allowed. What distinguishes halal is therefore, also the mode of food production for meat.

Halal Meat, What’s the Difference?
The Koran enacts a certain number of rules, the sunnah and the hadith , the tradition, and the religious jurisprudence concerning food production modes. Here are some of the rules to take note in the preparation of halal meat.

Firstly, the meat must not come from corpses or carrion, since it is forbidden to consume such meat. Next, the tools used to slaughter the animal must be sharp and planted at the base of the neck. Slaughtering must be done in a clean and hygienic place. Regarding the throat cut, it is necessary to cut the esophagus and the trachea. The jugular veins are not necessarily cut, but it is recommended to do so, because more blood spurts out by cutting them. The blood must then be removed quickly.