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Author: NIHT Media n the 24th of July 2018, The National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) received their accreditation certificate in the field of Halaal Products Certification according to the UAE GSO 2055-2: 2016 Halal Products Standard from the Emirates International Accreditation Centre (EIAC) marking another milestone for the organisation. The standard includes many clauses from the ISO 17065 Standard for certifying bodies thus standardising many systems of operations adopted by Halaal Certifying Bodies. he accreditation certificate was handed to Moulana Abdul Wahab Wookay (CEO) and Hafiz Moorad Booley (Chairman) at the EIAC offices in Dubai by Her Excellency Amina Ahmed Muhammed, the CEO of EIAC at the handover function in Dubai. Also present were Mr Sake van der Walt and Mr Sidarth Metha from the economic desk of the South African Consulate in Dubai. The UAE Standard demands that Halaal certifying bodies approach Halaal certification holistically and include issues such as hygiene, purity and food safety of Halaal food. In light of this, all NIHT Auditors have been trained in the Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) 22000 standard. This keeps in line with the concept of continuous learning and improvement on a professional level as adopted by the organisation since its inception in the year 2000. The UAE GSO Standard adds a new dimension to the auditing system of Halaal certification bodies. Audits are now not only conducted by Shariah experts, but they are joined by Technical Experts who form part of the NIHT Audit team. Whilst the Shariah expert audits according to the Halaal standard and the Halaal Assurance Programme (HAP) of the NIHT, the technical expert audits the food safety standards implemented at the plant. In light of the above and the utilisation of modern techniques in establishing the Halaal status and purity of Halaal products the NIHT has also established a Halaal Scientifics Research Council under the stewardship of Professor Dr Arshad Mather (PhD Biochemistry). This committee assists the Shariah (Ulema) experts in determining Halaal status of various products. This is done by taking into account the Shariah rulings regarding Halaal as well as utilising the latest technical research concepts and techniques available. The NIHT has always been acknowledged for its professional approach to Halaal certification and the implementation of the UAE GSO standard greatly enhances that professionalism.Moving forward, the NIHT will continue training their staff to ensure that the requirements that are needed to ensure a Halaal and wholesome (Tayib) product reaches the consumer. First Published : 27/07/2017 Download

Author: NIHT Media (BUSAN-Alummah World, Shawwal 16, 1436, August 1, 2015) Busan police said Wednesday that six people have been charged for their alleged involvement in the mass sale of fake halal food that appears to have affected Muslims nationwide. It is unclear exactly how many Islamic worshippers were victimized, but officers from the Busan Metropolitan Police Agency said that the goods were mainly distributed at local mosques and in areas mainly populated by Muslims. Some 135,000 Muslims live in the country and 35,000 are Korean nationals, according to the Korea Muslim Federation. About 15 mosques are established in Korea, with the most prominent one being the Seoul Central Mosque, opened in 1976 in Itaewon, central Seoul. Of the six suspects, three were charged for allegedly violating the Livestock Products Sanitary Control Act on suspicions that they distributed duck meat packaged with falsified halal certification labels. The 62-year-old operator of an unauthorized livestock company in Chungju, North Chungcheong, was allegedly involved in the scheme as well as the 52-year-old head of a meat-packaging company. The three, all reportedly Korean, are believed to have sold some 100 million won ($86,200) worth of falsely labeled duck meat since Feb. 2014. The police did not specify how the suspects were apprehended. The other three, also Koreans, were booked for allegedly making and distributing fake halal ramen, in violation of the country’s Food Sanitation Act. The trio sold some 40 million won worth of the product, also using fake halal certification labels, police said. Authorities did not say how much money the suspects stashed away. Expressing concern that the case could potentially undermine Korea’s reputation among Islamic countries, Busan police vowed to broaden enforcement on the domestic halal food industry to determine whether similar cases exist. Meaning “permitted” or “lawful” in Arabic, halal is any action or object that is permissible according to Islamic law. Halal foodstuffs are those allowed to be consumed under Islamic dietary guidelines. Halal meat comes from animals that are slaughtered in such a way so that as little pain as possible is inflicted. Animals must be alive and healthy at the time of slaughter, and the jugular vein, carotid artery and windpipe must be severed by a razor-sharp knife in a single swipe, according to the Halal Food Authority. Because pork is forbidden, halal slaughtering must not be done where pigs are slaughtered or in the vicinity of where pigs are butchered. A number of Korean companies have strived to target what many say is a rising Muslim population here by satisfying halal requirements. Source: Korea JoongAng Daily First Published: 01/08/2015 Download

Author: NIHT Ulema Committee In what is a first for Tshwane, the NIHT in conjunction with the Darul Uloom Pretoria will be hosting a Halaal conference at the Silver Crescent Gardens Conference Centre on Thursday the 20-11-2014. The theme of the conference is “HALAAL IN THE MODERN WORLD AND ITS IMPACT”. The conference is part of the Darul Uloom’s Silver Jubilee Celebrations and will be attended by a number of international Ulema, Professors, Doctors and Food Scientists from overseas and locally. Delegates attending will be from numerous countries including the UK, USA, Europe, Pakistan, West Indies, India, Botswana and Egypt. This conference will be co-ordinated by the NIHT and a number of academics will be delivering papers, for deliberation by the delegates. Spokesperson for the NIHT Hafez Moorad Booley stated, “The idea is to stimulate discussions on pertinent issues faced by Muslims in the modern world, even if we don’t agree on all aspects at least this will start the discussions.” Issues that need discussing amongst many others are the issues of metamorphosis (Istihalah), stunning, additives and the use of GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms). Since the levels of discussions are to be at an extremely elevated levels with the number of academia attending. Regretfully, it was decide that participation would be by invitation only. Amongst the many that would be attending are, Sheikul Hadith Abul Khair Sayed Haseenud Deen Sha Saheb, Professor Dr. Shahtaz from Pakistan, Sheikh Tigani from USA, Mufti Liaqat Ali from the UK, Professor Ismail Jaffer from UNISA, Qari Javed Akhtar from the UK, Mufti Misbahul Malek Luqmanvi from the UK and Qari Hafizul Rahmaan from India and Professor Edward Webb from the University of Pretoria. The tentative programme is as follows and is subject to change. Halaal and Haraam Concepts in Islam – Sheikh TijaniIntroduction to NIHT and The Way Forward – Hafez Moorad BooleyAdditives and Flavourants – Moulana A.W WookayIstihalah (change) – Moulana UthmaanHalaal Finance for Halaal Foods ? – Dr. ShahtazQuestions and Answer SessionsResolutions First Published: 18/11/2014 Download

Author: NIHT Media The Bakers range of biscuits are certified Halaal by the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) and all products and materials used for the manufacture of these biscuits are explicitly checked and verified before being used. There seems to be a misunderstanding pertaining to synthetic alcohol (ethyl alcohol), ethyl alcohol is derived from a number of sources including starch, cane sugar, maize, coal and as a bi-product of petroleum. This type of ethyl alcohol (synthetic alcohol) should not be confused with fermented alcohol (khamr) which is explicitly forbidden and Haraam. This synthetic alcohol is used in the entire food, baking and cosmetic industries extensively. It is more commonly used as an extracting or dispersing agent in the process of manufacturing flavourants and certain emulsifiers. Hence, it is not used directly or as a specific ingredient. Residual trace levels of the ethanol as referred to by the food and beverage industry amounts to miniscule amounts or particles being found in these various products. This is totally acceptable and Halaal as per Shariah. Ironically, ethyl alcohol is also found NATURALLY in fruit juice, coconut milk, kajoor (dates) paste, tomato puree, ground ginger and baking products which utilises yeast. These are also acceptable and Halaal. The following needs to be considered: The Bakers Tennis, Lemon Creams and Chockits biscuits do not contain any alcoholic beverages.The alcohol is of a synthetic nature and is not fermented khamr (intoxicant made from wine, grapes or dates).The synthetic alcohol is used purely as a solvent to disperse the flavourants and allow it to mix evenly with the biscuit dough.According to Imam Abu Hanifa (Rahmatullah Alaihi), alcohol from sources other than grapes and dates is not considered impure (Najis‎).‎ Contemporary Scholars (Ulama) have thus declared their use as a solvent to be acceptable since the intoxicating properties have been fully eliminated. This is also the view of the majority of Muslim Scholars locally as well as worldwide.The synthetic alcohol is completely evaporated during the manufacturing and baking process. As has been stated, the alcohol is of a synthetic nature and as such is permissible.The gelatine used for the Iced Zoo biscuits is from a Halaal bovine (beef) source and is totally Halaal.In conclusion, the Bakers range of biscuits is fully Halaal and fit for Muslim consumption. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any further queries. First Published : 06/06/2014 Download

Author: NIHT Media The Halaal Science Conference, which is focusing on the role of science in Halaal certification, is being held at the Sukosol Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand, from the 13th to the 15th of August 2013. The conference is being attended by Moulana Abdul Wahab Wookay, CEO of the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) and Dr Arshad Mather Ph.D, a member of the NIHT Scientific Advisory Committee. The conference opened with the welcome done by the president of the Chulalongkorn University, Prof. Pirom Kamolratanakul. Chulalongkorn University is this year celebrating the tenth anniversary of its Halaal Science Centre, which is headed by Prof. Dr. Winai Dahlan. The keynote address on the 14th of August at the opening ceremony, was delivered by the Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr Niwatthamrong Bunsongpaisan. In his address, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed the Thai governments support for the Halaal Industry and congratulated the Halaal Science Centre on its achievements over the past decade. He identified five sectors which the government felt is important. He said that the Muslim religious sector in the country needs to be strengthened and emphasis has to be placed on human resources and having professionals in the field of Halaal certification. “Halaal practices need to be upgraded and technology has to be embraced,” he said. He also said that the relationship between the Thai government and the Muslim community has to be stregthened. “At the same time, the industry should understand Halaal requirements and Halaal certification of raw-materials should form the basis of the process of Halaal cetification. The introductory presentation was done by Dr Dahlan who explained the history of the Halaal Science Centre and its current activities. Dr Dahlan, began conducting tests on products in 1994. In 1997, his tests revealed the contamination of products with porcine material which created a greater awareness of Halaal amongst Thai Muslims. On the 13th of August 2003 the Halaal lab, now known as the Halaal Science Centre was established. A total of thirteen thousand three hundred and thirty seven tests on products have been conducted since inception. The presentation on Halaal Standards for Pharmaceuticals and Non-Food products, by Prof. Dr Zhari Ismail of Universiti Sain, Malaysia evoked great interest amongst participants. So too did the presentations on vaccines and Halaal Science which will be discussed in greater detail in separate articles. At a round table discussion later in the day, Moulana Abdul Wahab Wookay spoke about the socio-economic impact of Halaal certification in South Africa. There was a great interest expressed in the the history of Muslims in the country. Dr Arshad Mather questioned a number aspects related to Halaal certification and current systems employed by the scientific community. First Published: 16/08/2013 Download

Author: NIHT Media The National Independent Halaal Trust is sad to announce the passing away of one of our longest serving regional inspectors, Sheikh Goolam Tirey (79), this morning in Port Elizabeth. Sheikh Tirey had served his community in the Eastern Cape diligently and had joined the NIHT inspection team in 2001. His work ethic was indeed exemplary and he was always someone the younger inspectors could look up to as a role model. Although Marhoom Sheikh discovered that he had developed cancer late last year, Marhoom insisted that he continue to conduct his inspections until two months back. The NIHT calls on the Ummah to remember Sheikh Goolam Tirey in their Duas and pray that Allah grants him a lofty place in Jannah. May the Almighty also grant Sabr to his family at this time of bereavement. Indeed it is Allah’s promise that, “Every soul shall have a taste of death.” First Published: 12/05/2013 Download

Author: NIHT Media he recent controversy surrounding the meat industry, locally as well as internationally, has led to a greater awareness amongst all consumers, Muslim and Non-Muslim alike, regarding what they consume. From donkey and horse DNA being found in processed products in Europe, to water buffalo in South Africa, what has become apparent is that, in some instances, the consumer has been misled by unscrupulous businessmen and the time has surely arrived to ensure that consumers are fully aware of what they are consuming. It is however, imperative to remember that the matter of DNA testing is not as simplistic as it is appears. Laymen do not often understand intricacies of involved in the process of testing. The NIHT since its inception has always consulted with professionals in the field of science and food technology to better understand issues that faced the organization. The organization had therefore established the NIHT Scientific Advisory Council to assist with the scientific issues which would arise from time to time. During a recent meeting of the National Independent Halaal Trust (NIHT) board, presentations on genetics were done by Dr Arshad Mather and Dr Muhammed Sayed, two of the members of the NIHT’s Scientific Advisory Council. Their presentations provided valuable insight into the building blocks of life. Regarding genetic testing, it was established that some of the testing methods were extremely sensitive and as such, DNA contamination is possible, even though the product tested did not contain the species whose DNA was found. Results are not often as conclusive as they are deemed to be. In a meat processing or manufacturing facility where different species of meat is handled, for example beef, mutton and chicken, “contamination” is a great possibility. If a worker has handled chicken, and then touches a beef product, and if hypothetically thereafter the beef product is sent for DNA testing, it is possible that the traces of chicken DNA will also be found. Therefore results therefore have to be verified by professionals in the field before any conclusions can be drawn. Amongst the Ulama present at the meeting were Mufti M.A Hazarvi, principal of Darul Uloom Pretoria, Moulana Sayed Yusuf of Saaberie Chishty, Moulana Aslam Sulaiman of Sultan Bahu Centre and Hafiz Ismail Hazarvi of Darul Uloom Pretoria. Commenting on the meeting and presentations, Moulana Sayed Yusuf said that he was indeed impressed with the levels of consultation employed by the NIHT and the meticulous research done into important matters facing the organization. Nevertheless, what the entire saga highlights is that the proper labelling of products, is a necessity and it is clear that all meat traders and manufacturers, including the small Muslim butchery need to comply with the proper labelling legislation as stipulated by law. The Muslim businessman is duty-bound to follow Islamic business ethics, values and principles because, on the discussion of Halaal and Haraam, these are not limited to food and beverage consumption alone, but encompass the Muslims entire life. The manner in which you earn your livelihood has to be Halaal as well!!! Islam gives complete freedom to economic enterprise. A Muslim may choose any means of earning his wealth provided that it conforms with Shariah. The behaviour of a Muslim businessman in his trading and dealing is codified within Islamic law. The ultimate Muslim Businessman is exemplified by none other than the exalted Prophet of Islam, our leader and guide, Muhammed Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. His example in all facets of life is second to none. Lying and cheating is strictly prohibited in business dealings. The Holy Qur’an has stressed the importance of fairness in business: “And, O my people, give full measure and weight justly, and defraud not men of their things, and act not corruptly in the land making mischief. What remains with Allah is better for you, if you are believers” (Surah 11. Verses 85-86). Numerous Hadith testify to the honesty of our Nabi Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam in all aspects of his life. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), while reprimanding the dishonest dealer, said: “Whosoever deceives us is not one of us.” According to Imam Al-Ghazali (R.A), a Muslim who makes up his mind to adopt trade as a profession or to set up his own business should first acquire a thorough understanding of the rules of business transactions codified in the Islamic Shari’ah. Without such understanding he will go astray and fall into serious lapses making his earning unlawful. Honesty and integrity therefore needs to be in the DNA of a Muslim businessman. Article first published: 13/01/2013 Download

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