Macphie insight | Higher demand for halal

Halal is a hot topic in the food industry right now and presents a significant business opportunity. Here’s what you need to know about halal.

What is halal?

Halal foods adhere to the list of permissible foods outlined in Islamic law as defined in the Quran, the central religious text of Islam. For meat and poultry to be certified as halal, it must be slaughtered according to strict methods of preparation.

The growing demand for halal

Halal foods currently have a consumer base of around 1.9 billion people across 112 countries and this is set to rise to 2.2 billion by 2030 (Pew Research Center).  Reasons behind this uptake in consumption include a rising Muslim population, which is set to grow at an annual rate of 1.5%, higher disposable income and rising concerns for health and hygiene related to the preparation of our food (Spire Research).

This level of growth presents a wealth of opportunity for the food and drink market. Halal is estimated to be worth $1.6 trillion by 2018 and is anticipated to make up 17.4% of the world food market by 2018. Media coverage questions whether halal will become the new normal and the first UK Halal Food Festival took place this year with celebrity chefs in action and over 100 exhibitors showcasing their products.

Of the 1.6 billion global Muslim population, many do not live in Muslim-majority countries in which it can be challenging to source authentic halal certified foods. However, is the food industry equipped to manage this shift and in a position to engage with this fast growing halal economy? At Macphie, we recognise the growing demand for certified halal products both in the UK and internationally. For more information, please contact your account manager.

*Photo of strawberry tart made using halal approved Mactop Traditional.