Navigating the Ramadan Bazaar: HalalSG’s Guide to Halal Food
Ramadan is a month of worship, forgiveness and devotion. For many of us here in Singapore, it is a time when our daily routines seamlessly embrace our intensified efforts for more ‘ibadah (acts of worship).
Ramadan here has also become synonymous with bazaars in the familiar rhythm of our everyday lives infused with our commitment to amplify our good deeds. These vibrant bazaars sprout like mushrooms after rain, transforming the landscape into a haven of delectable food, bustling shopping hubs, and communal joy. These bazaars have become an integral part of our Ramadan, adding a unique shared experience to this sacred month.
Read: 6 Tips to Break Your Fast During Ramadan
As we navigate the myriad options of stalls during Ramadan, making choices that align with our halal dietary requirements and contribute positively to our spiritual journey is essential. With this in focus, let's explore four practical tips from HalalSG to assist you in making thoughtful and halal-conscious food decisions:
1. Check for Muis Halal Certification
Stalls with a certified main outlet or central kitchen should prominently display their short-term halal certificate.
It is important to note that the display of the Muis halal logo within the stalls should always be accompanied by a valid halal certificate. Vendors who display the Muis halal logo on their stall without any halal certificate1 are committing an offence against AMLA Section 88(A)(5)(b).
Read: Common Questions About Halal and Halal Certification In Singapore
Under the same provision, it is also not acceptable for stalls to display a halal certificate of the ingredients used, as this can mislead consumers into thinking that every ingredient in the stall has been sourced and certified when this is not the case.
This differs from packed products carrying the halal logo as the product itself is indeed halal certified.
2. Ask If They Are Muslim-Owned
Muslim stall owners carry a religious responsibility to offer halal food, and as such, they are required to possess precise and accurate knowledge about halal matters. Therefore, Muslim sellers need to ensure that they acquire their knowledge from reputable sources, such as ARS-certified asatizah or Muis halal self-study resources available on our website.
Nevertheless, what you consume is fundamentally a personal responsibility. As such, it is also essential for Muslim consumers to equip themselves with adequate knowledge to make informed decisions. If you are aware of the ownership and do not have any doubts (waswas), then the choice to consume is yours.
In conclusion, it entails a shared responsibility from both ends – consumers and F&B business owners.
3. No Halal Certificate? Check Ingredients!
If a stall does not have a halal certificate, don't worry! You can verify the ingredients or search for everyday recipes. If the dish includes high-risk, questionable ingredients, exercise caution. It is entirely acceptable to directly inquire (tactfully!) with the vendor or company, and it is crucial - imperative, even - to know what specific questions to ask. This brings us back to the importance of having adequate knowledge to make informed decisions.
In simpler terms: Check, ask, decide!
Check the ingredients, ask if you are uncertain, and use the information gathered to make your decision regarding the halal status!
Read: What is Halal?
4. Understand That "No Pork, No Lard" ≠ Halal
We could not stress this enough - Halal extends beyond the absence of pork and lard.
In our diverse, multi-religious, and multi-cultural landscape, it becomes paramount for both buyers and sellers to possess the knowledge necessary to navigate the realms of marketing and purchasing. Sellers should recognise that Halal encompasses more than just the exclusion of pork and lard.
Claiming to offer Halal food based merely on this criterion alone is insufficient. Similarly, consumers need to be aware and not assume a food item is halal solely because it does not contain pork or lard.
Education and understanding are crucial in ensuring an accurate understanding of halal standards in our diverse society.
Read: Understanding Islam and Its Practices: Halal and Haram Food in Islam
As we observe Ramadan, it's essential to view our food choices as more than just food, but as fuel for ‘ibadah as well. Consume energy-rich, nourishing meals to sustain you throughout the day, fostering a healthy and mindful approach to eating during this sacred month.
Read: Halalan Tayyiban: More Than Just Halal
If you feel any waswas (doubts), no matter how small, it's better to err on the side of caution. Choosing food with confidence contributes to a spiritually enriching Ramadan experience.
Conclusion
In summary, making halal food choices during Ramadan involves a combination of certification awareness, mindful selection, and being armed with knowledge and verified information. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the bazaar with confidence, ensuring that your meals align with the spirit of Ramadan.
Also read: Is Gelatine Halal?
Notes
1 Muis short-term halal certificate is issued for short-term stalls operating within a limited duration. This certification is specifically applicable to stalls that meet certain criteria, including being operated by existing Muis halal certificate holders and featuring the name or branding of their halal-certified premises. For more detailed information on Muis halal certification conditions, you can visit the official website at www.halal.sg.
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