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Author: NIHT Media An article was released on Monday, 10 December 2012 by Wendy Knowler of Consumer Watch, wherein it has been alleged that sausages from a Muslim Butchery in Durban tested positive for pork DNA. We were contacted by the butcher in question and were sent the test results provided by the laboratory that conducted the tests. We in turn sent these results to the National Independent Halaal Trust Scientific Advisory Council (NIHTSAC), headed by Dr. Arshad Mather and Dr. Muhammed Sayed who posed a number of questions related to the test. The response left a number of unanswered questions and by mutual agreement with Dr. Donna Cawthorn, the laboratory analyst, it was understood that the results are inconclusive. We quote Dr. Donna Cawthorn from her response to the NIHT: “ ………… in the analyst opinion it is unlikely that pork was added as (an) ingredient, but rather that contamination has taken place at some point. This needs to be investigated thoroughly before media statements are made”. For reasons known only to THEMSELVES, CONSUMER WATCH, disregarded all suggestions and advice and has gone forward and publicly made unsubstantiated claims, this kind of behavior can only be construed as reckless and unethical. The NIHT’s position is very clear and we state categorically that since the integrity and the legitimacy of the laboratory results are in question we will not comment / condemn based on the following facts. The laboratory in question has not been accredited.The test sample was not sealed in front of the manager / owner of the butcher, nor was a sealed sample left behind for later verification, as is the norm whilst conducting tests.The results provided by the laboratory, show glaring inconsistency which needs clarification. (Whilst the results refer to no soya being detected, the butcher owner has admitted that he utilizes soya in the sausage product. This obviously questions the legitimacy and integrity of the results.)No checks and balances were in place to prevent cross-contamination. We quote Dr. Donna Cawthorn: “Obviously there is always a chance that cross-contamination can take place, and the analyst acknowledges this and will retest once again to confirm the results.”A request for a second sample to be tested independently or jointly has not been forthcoming.A subsequent inspection at the said butcher showed all products to be totally Halaal compliant.Since there was a great chance of cross-contamination between contact surfaces and other samples, which was admitted by the laboratory, we still await the results of the retested product. In light of the above we urge the Muslim public to refrain from spreading malicious rumours and rather ascertain the complete facts. Article first published: 12/12/2012 Download

Author: NIHT Media The following letter was received from MARS in response to an email being circulated which claims that a red dot in a square on the packaging of Mars Chocolate bars indicate that it contains gelatine which is derived from Pork. See their response hereunder to Adnaan Gabru of the NIHT. 28 February 2012 Att: Adnaan Gabru Subject: Red dot on Mars chocolate Dear Adnaan, Thank you for bringing this communication to our attention. As an organisation, we strive to ensure that all Mars products comply with the legal and cultural norms of all the markets where we operate. Mars products, including Snickers®, Twix®, Bounty® and Mars® bars do not contain pork nor pork derivatives. Mars products are exported to a number of markets including South Africa and India. The red dot that may appear on some of our packaging is a legal requirement for the India Market. It indicates that the product may contain egg, which is not suitable for some vegetarians in India. In South Africa we also receive product with the Green Dot and Brown Dot for the following products: 1) Bounty® Bar has a Green Dot – it means that a vegan can eat this products. 2) Snickers® Bar has a Brown Dot – it means that the product contains animal products like egg and milk products. We have attached the Halaal certification from our manufacturing facility and we hope this will to give you and our consumers the confidence to enjoy our brands. Please feel free to contact us anytime, should you require more information. Regards, Lillian Henderson Marketing Director Chocolate Division Article first published : 28/02/2012 Download

Author: NIHT Media The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said: “Calm deliberation is from Allah while hastiness is from the Shaytaan.” (Bayhaqi) Whilst the photograph of the contentious label was circulated, we responded that the matter is being investigated. Information was lacking and until all information was verified, no statement was made by the NIHT. After a comprehensive investigation and verification of facts which were presented to us, we comment as follows: In conclusion, absolutely no pork was labelled as Halaal. Pick ‘n Pay have unreservedly apologized to the NIHT and to the Muslim community for any discomfort and inconvenience caused by this incident. Issued by the NIHT. “O believers! If anyone disobedient comes to you with any news, make a strict enquiry, lest you may punish any people in ignorance and then later on remain regretful on what you may have done.” (S49:V6) Article first published : 19/10/2011 Download

Author: NIHT Media n April 2010 an announcement was made that the ProNutro strawberry flavour was not Halaal as it contained an alcoholic derivative. This was communicated to the Muslim public of South Africa. Bokomo Foods, the manufacturers of the products entered into consultation with the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) to find a solution to the dilemma facing the Muslim public. A decision was taken to reformulate the problematic flavour and the NIHT began a rigorous and comprehensive investigation into every single ingredient used at the plant. This investigation lasted for a year and revealed that all other ingredients were Halaal. During that period the strawberry flavour was reformulated as agreed with the NIHT and the usage of the Haraam flavour was discontinued. The entire plant was then cleansed conforming to Islamic requirements to ensure there was no contamination with any residue from previous productions. The National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) is pleased to announce that that the ProNutro Strawberry, along with the rest of the ProNutro range, has been certified Halaal. The certification includes ProNutro Toddlers and ProLight. Any ProNutro product with a production date after 9 May 2011 is Halaal certified by the NIHT. Please be vigilant and check production dates. Future packaging will bear the NIHT Halaal logo. The NIHT is proud to certify the ProNutro range and compliments Bokomo Foods for their dedication in ensuring their products are fit for Muslim consumption. The NIHT welcomes Bokomo Foods to our list of certified companies. Article Published: 06/11/2012 Download

Recently an email attributed to a certain councilor in Blackburn, U.K. Brother Salim Mulla (LCM) was widely circulated concerning the Halaal status of Nando’s South Africa. This was done with the intention of creating doubt in the Halaal certification process at Nando’s (S.A). Councilor Salim Mulla was contacted by the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) regarding the issue, and denied making any statements regarding Nando’s South Africa. In a subsequent e-mail to the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT), councilor Salim Mulla clearly states, “I cannot make any comments and I have never made any comments about Nando’s in South Africa or Canada.” He further states; “Again, I have never made any comments about SANHA or NIHT or Nandos in South Africa / Canada, Allah is my witness” He concludes by stating: “Please forgive me if I have made a mistake/offended anyone” From this alone it is evidently clear that the hoax email is a mischievous fabrication. The idea is to create doubt in the minds of Muslims concerning Nando’s South Africa and discredit the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT); those responsible for this misinformation will surely be questioned on the Day of Judgement. Consider the Holy Quran which says, “O you who believe, if a person comes to you with news, verify it, lest you harm people in ignorance and become regretful afterwards.” (Surah Hujjarat Ayat 6) Furthermore, a Hadith in Sahihul Bukhari narrated by Hazrat Hudhaifah states, “A QATAAT will not enter (Jannah) Paradise.” (Vol 8 no: 82). * A QATAAT is a person who conveys false information from one person to another to cause Haram and enmity. So dear brothers and sisters take a moment and consider, before pressing the send button on your PC, are we not creating fitna by just passing these devious unfactual and degrading emails onwards to unsuspecting Muslims. From the outset it has been proven that this issue had nothing to do with South Africa, But rather the U.K. In concluding the, National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) would like to reiterate that all chicken and ancillary products served By Halaal Nando’s stores are certified by the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) and fit for Muslim Consumption, this process is done under the strict supervision of the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) inspectors who conduct continuous inspections on all facets of the Nando’s supply chain. The National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) only adheres to the strictest Halaal standards and implements them accordingly. Only South African produced Poultry is used. For your nearest Halaal Nando’s store please consult our website on www.halaal.org.za or contact us on niht@halaal.org.za. Article Published : 11/04/2010 Download

A simple approach to every Diabetic’s nightmare: blood sugar control Diagnosed with diabetes? You are not alone. It is not easy for anyone to hear that they have diabetes. Today, more than 300 million people suffer from diabetes worldwide. If nothing is done to slow down the epidemic, the number will increase to over 500 million people in the next 20 years. Why is diabetes serious? People with diabetes suffer from high blood sugar (glucose) levels, as a result of problems with the production and supply of insulin in the body. There are two main types of diabetes: Type I that affects mainly children and young adults, and Type II that affects mainly adults who tend to be overweight. Common symptoms of diabetes include: Unusual thirstFrequent urinationUnusual weight lossExtreme fatigue or lack of energyBlurred visionFrequent of recurring infectionsCuts and bruises that are slow to heal, boils and itching skinTingling and numbness in the hands or feetIf left untreated or poorly managed, the high levels of blood sugar can slowly damage both the fine nerves and the small and large vessels in the body, leading to complications such as: Blood vessel diseaseHeart diseaseBlindnessAmputationsKidney diseaseErectile dysfunction or impotenceWhat can be done to prevent diabetes complications? The goal of any Diabetic is to bring his/her blood sugar levels down into the normal range, which is between 4–7 mmol/L (millimoles per litre – the world standard unit for measuring glucose in blood). Various studies conducted over the last 20 years have proven that the level of blood sugar control can predict the onset and severity of diabetes-related complications for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes, and you keep your blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible (4-7 mmol/L), you can live a normal life with few or no complications at all. Tips for controlling blood sugar levels Eat healthily: Diabetics are generally advised to eat three small meals and three snacks a day. Get expert advice from a dietician on what to eat and when.Manage your weight. If you are overweight you are probably battling to achieve good blood sugar control. Losing just 5-10 % of body weight can have a huge impact on lowering blood sugar levels.Monitor your blood sugar levels daily. It is important to test your blood sugar levels on a daily basis to make sure it is not too high or too low. Keep a record and take it along to your next doctor visit.Visit your doctor regularly for medical advice and medical checks. Because Diabetics are at increased risk of complications, it is necessary to visit a doctor on a regular basis for a full check-up.Take your medication as prescribed. If you have been prescribed mediation to control blood sugar, don’t change the dose or stop taking it without consulting with your doctor first.Lead a healthy lifestyle. Healthy lifestyle options include to stop smoking and to reduce your stress levels.NEW DIABETIC PLUS mini-meal shake simplifies blood sugar control DIABETIC PLUS is a new and convenient mini-meal replacement option for Diabetics, or in fact, any health conscious person who wants to keep their blood sugar levels steadier between meals. DIABETIC PLUS is a low GI, low calorie, nutritious meal replacement that can help minimise poor food choices and improve portion control. Furthermore, it carries the GI Foundation endorsement as “Often Foods”. DIABETIC PLUS contains the correct combination of ingredients to achieve better blood sugar control, which takes the guess work and effort out of having to plan every snack or small meal. The variety of natural ingredients contained in DIABETIC PLUS may also enhance weight loss, increase satiety, lower bad cholesterol, maintain the health of the digestive tract and support the immune system. In the short run, controlled blood sugar will allow Diabetics to feel better, stay healthy, have more energy and prevent the symptoms associated with high blood sugar, such as thirst, tiredness, loss of weight and blurred vision. In the long term, tightly managed blood sugar levels will lower the chances of developing eye disease, kidney disease, nerve damage and heart disease. NEW DIABETIC PLUS mini-meal shake contains ingredients that promote steady blood sugar levels DIABETIC PLUS contains the following ingredients: Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs): provide the fat in the Diabetic meal replacement. They are broken down rapidly in the digestive tract into medium chain fatty acids (MCFA’s) before being absorbed into the blood stream and transported directly to the liver where they are used for energy or converted into acetic acid as they cannot be stored in fat cells. They are beneficial in enhancing weight loss, increasing satiety (feeling of fullness), lowering total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can indirectly improve blood glucose control.Soy protein isolate: lowers LDL-Cholesterol, a predictor of cardiovascular disease.Whey protein: high in leucine, which may help to improve blood sugar control in Type 2 Diabetics.Fructo-oligosaccharides and glucomannan (soluble fibre): more readily fermented into short chain fatty acids, lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels, maintains health of the digestive tract and supports the immune system.Cellulose (insoluble fibre): helps to bulk up the contents of the colon to speed up movement through the colon.Sucralose and Xylitol (sweeteners): replace sucrose and the kilojoule/calorie content, which can improve the glucose response after the meal replacement.Micronutrients specifically chosen to compliment diabetes: calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, chromium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and B vitamins.NEW DIABETIC PLUS mini-meal shake is delicious and easy to use AND HAS BEEN CERTIFIED BY THE NATIONAL INDEPENDENT HALAAL TRUST (NIHT). DIABETIC PLUS is available in 4 delicious flavours: Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate and Café Latté. Just add 35 g (3 scoops) of powder to 300 mL of cold water and mix well in a blender or a shaker. DIABETIC PLUS can be used as a mid-morning, mid-afternoon or evening snack, in place of whole grain crackers, popcorn, fresh fruit, dried fruit, fruit salad, fruit smoothie, slice of whole grain toast, whole grain rusk, etc. Get creative and make a fruit smoothie by blending the required amount

Religious dietary requirements play an important role in the lives of adherents of different religions and likewise, the consumption of Halaal food and drink and abstention from Haraam is of paramount importance in the lives of Muslims. The injunctions of the Holy Qur’aan and Hadith of the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam clearly guides us in terms of what is Halaal and Haraam and this guidance assists us with the modern dilemma of determining what we can or cannot consume. Although food preservation has been an integral part of human survival, the modern era has left us with further complexities to face in the form of food technology and the numerous different ingredients currently in use. Genetic modification of seeds and the enhanced developments in this field does not help the situation much either. It is therefore fitting that the 1st International Conference on Halal Food Control held in Saudi Arabia, hosted by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, took place from the 12th to the 15th of February 2012 at the InterContinental Hotel in Riyadh. The conference was attended by Moulana Abdul Wahab Wookay on behalf of the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT). The focus of the conference was on the scientific advances in food production and manufacture and the papers to be delivered were classified into twelve main sessions. The topics covered were Lawfulness of Food Additives, Analysis methods of Halal food, Control of Halal food, Halal food standards, Halal certification, Countries experience in Halal food control, Development of Halal industry. A number of speakers described their experiences of Halaal certification in the countries they lived in whilst others spoke on research conducted in the fields of slaughter. The scientific papers which were delivered by experts in the field gave an insight into current developments in food science as well as future initiatives. Dr Mian Nadeem Riaz, the director for the Food Protein R&D Centre and head of the Extrusion Technology programme at Texas A&M University presented a paper on Halal Food Additives Control in which he defined the usage of additives in food manufacture. “Food additives are substances added to food for many purposes including preserving flavour or improving taste and appearance,” he said. He emphasized the dangers food additives posed to the Halaal status of foods as sometimes the additives are derived from Haraam sources. A captivating paper was delivered by Dr Maqusood Ahmed who is an Assistant Professor at the King Abdullah Institute for Nanotechnology. His topic, “Nanotechnology in the Food industry: A Future Technology”, gave an insight into future advances in food science as well as medicine. He emphasized that owing to their unique physico-chemical properties, nanoscale materials may cause biological consequences inflammation, free oxygen radical generation, oxidative stress, DNA damage and ultimately cell death/apoptosis. Mr Haluk Dag, the Seecretary General of The Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC), spoke about the initiatives undertaken at a government level to establish an acceptable international Halaal standard. SMIIC is an affiliate organ the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) and its statute entered into force in may 2010. He said that every country needs a well established infrastructure to achieve its goals. Starting from the essential parts this bears the necessity of providing vital elements such as enough food, clean water, health care, creating jobs and accessible education system to its society. As far as food is concerned, there is a tendency nowadays amongst consumers, whether Muslim or non-Muslim, to focus on the cleanliness and healthiness of what they consume. This is the point where standardization of Halaal Food plays a vital role bringing in the implementation of certification and accreditation. In a discussion with Moulana Abdul Wahab, he invited him to join the technical committee of the organization and provide input in terms of the envisaged standards. Download

The National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT), the internationally acclaimed and accepted local Halaal food certifier, was invited to Russia for a conference, recently. The invitation, on behalf of the Council of Russian Mufties was extended to Moulana A.W. Wookay and Hafez Moorad Booley. They successfully delivered papers on ‘The History of Halaal Certification in South Africa’ and ‘Halaal Certification in a Muslim Minority Country’, respectively. The Council of Russian Mufties have only been certifying since 1996 and are relatively new in the Halaal industry. Hence the invitation to the NIHT who have extensive experience in the Halaal Industry, internationally. With a Muslim population of over 49 million, the Russian Muslims are also a minority within their country. With more and more countries ready to do business with Russia and the economy gaining strength, Halaal globalization is evident in Russia and other East European Countries. The two day Moscow Halaal Conference at the Croycus City Hall saw delegates from over 12 countries deliberating and presenting various papers. Day one was allocated to Halaal finance and Takafol. Day two saw various role players in the Halaal food industry deliver papers on pertinent issues and problem areas. A number of resolutions was tabled and accepted. The Council of Russian Mufties were elated that the NIHT could attend this year since last years conference was not attended due to other commitments. The Chairman of the Council of Russian Mufties, Sheik Ravil Gainutdin (Zaynudeen) warmly welcomed the NIHT delegation and looked forward to co-operation between the two organizations. “The reputation of South Africa’s Halaal Industry was recognized and accepted, hence the invitation to the NIHT who are leaders in their field”, said Mufti Gainutdin. Due to lack of visible Islam during the old Soviet Communist Days, the revival of Islam has been tremendous with many young Russians embracing Islam fervently and eagerly. While Moscow has four Mosques, the Mosques are small and can only hold +/- 800 worshippers, yet for the Friday (Jummah) prayers more than 4000 worshippers attend at each mosque reading their prayers outside in the cold! Sadly the government has been dragging its feet to grant permission for the extension of the Masajids. With this in mind the NIHT has offered to assist in various ways and hope that a reciprocal visit by the Council of Russian Mufties to our country soon, would be a good start. An exchange of ideas and training modules is also envisaged in the not so distant future. The conference was run professionally with many European delegates expressing their surprise. “We have had such a negative concept of Russia and its people, this is an eye opener”, said one delegate from Italy. Notwithstanding the language, culinary, cultural and climatic challenges, it was different and truly educational. “This was really an awesome and fascinating experience how these Muslims have held on to their Islam with all the challenges is really extreme”, said NIHT’s Hafez Moorad Booley. This is just one of the ways of proving that Islam is a Universal way of life. A different way to celebrate South Africa’s acceptance to the BRIC Countries. Download

Author: NIHT Media he 2010 Annual General Meeting of the World Halaal Council (WHC) took place in Istanbul, Turkey between the 29th of September and the 3rd of October 2010. The session began on the 29th of September with an executive committee meeting attended by Hafez Moorad Booley of the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) who is an executive member of the World Halaal Council as well. The deliberations of the Excom meeting centered on the upcoming AGM as well as issues relating to membership and new applicantions. A number of technical and Shariah issues were presented as well. The goal of World Halaal Council (WHC) is to establish a unified Halaal standard worldwide. GIMDES, the Turkish hosts of this year’s AGM also hosted their 3rd Annual Halaal Conference on the 30th of September. The conference was well attended and a host of speakers delivered interesting papers on various topics related to Halaal foods and cosmetics. Most notably, the talk on Halaal and genetically modified plants and animals drew much attention from delegates. The paper delivered was by a renowned Turkish scientist Dr Halim Aydin. With the advanced use of cloning and genetic modification of various vegetables, fruits, animals, birds and fish, Shariah (Islamic Law) needs to be considered and attention and prudent investigation of the facts should be undertaken. The cloning of the various species has left Islamic scholar’s seeking Fatwa (edicts) on the permissibility of these animals. Whilst the animals are slaughtered Halaal, cognizance needs to be taken of the origins of these animals. The dilemma being faced is not only a religious one but a moral one as well. The various role players in the World Halaal Council (WHC) must undertake continuous and serious investigation into these matters. The need of establishing a seed bank for developing Islamic countries was also discussed. The AGM of the WHC began on the 1st of October 2010 with delegates being welcomed by the then incumbent president, Brother Lukamul Hakim of Indonesia. Various reports submitted and delivered by different committees of the WHC. These included the Shariah Committee, under the chairmanship of Moulana Abdul Wahab Wookay (SA), membership committee under sister Yasmina Ben-Koubia (Netherlands), the technical committee under Dr Al-Absy (USA). A number of resolutions where presented and deliberated, however, no resolutions were accepted due to various technical and practical difficulties experienced. This year also saw the election of the new Secretary General of the organization, a post that was held by Abdur Rahman Linzag (Philippines) for the last three years. Lukmanul Hakim (Indonesia) was elected as the new Secretary General, with South African Sheik Thaffier Najjaar (SAHUC) elected as Honorary President. A number of organizations that have previously not attended World Halaal Council meetings were attending for the first time this year. These included delegates from India, Pakistan, Spain, Italy, Colombia, Switzerland and France. Delegates from these countries expressed their interest in seeking membership of the organization, making this organization a truly united nation of Muslim certifiers. More than 68 delegates from almost 40 countries were represented in Turkey. One of the highlights of the days spent in the country was a visit to the first Halaal Food and Cosmetic Exhibition to be held in Turkey. A number of Halaal certified Turkish companies proudly exhibited their products. Download

Author: Kharleez Zubin In view of the large scale abuse of the ‘Halaal’ logo by unscrupulous businesses and the absence of regulations to prevent such abuse, laws are being amended to punish the culprits. Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Senator Datuk Dr Mashitah Ibrahim, told Parliament that presently, action cannot be taken against companies or individuals who violated the Halaal logo usage. “Because of the growing demand for Halaal products, many companies and individuals are using Halaal logos unauthorised by Department of Islamic Development (Jakim). However, since Jakim has no enforcement power, the Trade Description Act 1972 under the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry is being amended to haul to court those who abuse the Halaal logo. “With the amendments, ministry officials will be empowered under the law to act against individuals or companies using imitation Halaal logos.” Once the Trade Description Act is amended, Jakim officers will be seconded to the ministry so they can determine if there is an abuse of the Halaal logo. Mashitah, replying to Taib Azamudden Md Taib (Pas–Baling), also said that since the Halaal certification was moved back to Jakim, Halaal Industry Development Corporation (HDC) has no more authority to issue such certificates. HDC is a government-linked company wholly owned by the Ministry of Finance incorporated and tasked to coordinate the overall development of the Halaal industry in Malaysia. On March 18, The Malay Mail front-paged a report that fraudsters, who made millions in a computer-vendor scam several years ago, were cashing in on the thriving Halaal products and services business. The computer-vendor scam group re-surfaced two years ago as the government has been promoting the country as a global Halaal hub. The group had remained on the sidelines since the scam was exposed in 2003. The Paper That Cares learnt that the fraudsters who are known to drive luxury cars with double-digit registration plates cheated at least two individuals. Most of the cars, including a Ferrari, are registered under a company based in Selangor and to a woman from Perak. It is not known how many have been conned or the losses involved as no police reports have been lodged so far. It is believed the victims were afraid to face public embarrassment if they reported to the police that they fell for the scam. Download