Over the past two years, plant-based food consumption has grown by 49% across the EU, reaching a total sales volume of €3.6 billion.
UK: “I think there’s a lack of understanding” – education holds the key to unlocking the halal market
2025-05-15
Alex BlackandAHDBHalal ManagerFuseini's BeginningConversation about how sheep farmers can benefit from the halal market.
according toAHDBHalal ManagerFuseini's BeginningAs said, education of farmers and the public is the key to unlocking the full potential of the halal market.
FuseinMr. was appointed in AprilAHDBThe first Halal Manager, as the Revenue Commissioners want to improve their understanding of opportunities for halal meat in the UK and potential export markets.
While some have concerns about UK halal slaughter standards,FuseinThe gentleman said that there is a misunderstanding about what Halal is.
Muslim population is less than the total population5%。
But they consume about20%of the Lamb.
"It's a highly regulated and legal process. There is some negative public perception about halal that we can't get around. I think there's a lack of understanding. People think all halal meat is slaughtered without stunning," he said.
But most halal meat is slaughtered after being stunned.15%Halal and Kosher meat is slaughtered without stunning.
He isAHDBThe role involves liaising with Halal slaughterhouses and certification committees, providingAHDBTechnical support and training.
Training
"The best thing we can do is how we train our butchers. Education is very important," he said.
“I plan to start with slaughterhouses to raise awareness of the importance of animal welfare, and then emphasize this education to the general public.”
He said it was a potential area for taxpayers because traditional beef and lamb markets would be under pressure to grow.
"This is important because it accounts for a large portion of the meat consumption market in the UK," he said.
culture
"The Muslim population is expanding rapidly. Culturally, they are known for eating a lot of meat."
For the sheep industry, the opportunity for growth is significant because it faces the challenge of declining spending power for lamb among the general British public.
"Lamb is an important part of the Muslim diet. From my interactions with the community, I don't think it will decline," he said.
FuseinMr. has extensive experience in the halal industry and has served asSUMMERHe holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, and a Master of Science in Meat Science and Technology from the University of Bristol, UK.
He is currently undertaking a PhD at the University of Bristol, funded by the Humane Slaughter Society, working on the development of a new electrical system for shocking cattle.
"This is a new stunning system. We hope it will be accepted by people in the non-stun market," he said.