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:
- Until yesterday, (18 October), there was no conclusive evidence indicating at which store the photograph of the label was taken. However, last night, the shopper who took the photograph came forward. We thank her for doing so as information she provided has helped to clarify important details pertinent to the investigation we have been conducting with Pick n Pay.
- Our investigation has revealed the following:
- The photo was taken at the Trade Route Mall Pick ‘n Pay store in Lenasia on the 20th of September 2011, sadly the matter was not brought to the attention of the Muslim supervisor or Pick ‘n Pay on that day!
- The Trade Route Mall store in Lenasia, does not sell any pork products whatsoever. We have conclusive evidence that absolutely no pork product has ever been received or sold in the butchery.
- The product on which the label appeared is therefore definitely not pork. This has been confirmed. The problem has been traced to the pricing scale in the butchery section and a unified national pricing system. An incorrect code was entered resulting in the wrong product information appearing on the label. We must stress that there was only one product with the contentious label on it. This has been confirmed by the shopper that took the photograph.
- Corrective measures have already been implemented to ensure that this error does not reoccur.
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