Although gelatin is often hidden on the ingredient list, it is of great significance to halal consumers. Seemingly harmless additives can potentially become...violatingIssues of trust, faith, and lifestyle. This article explains why animal-based gelatin presents challenges and highlights halal-friendly alternatives.

What is gelatin?

gelatinCollagen is a tasteless, transparent protein derived from collagen in animal skin, bones, and connective tissue. When boiled, collagen produces gelatin, which has gelling, stabilizing, and thickening properties. When mixed with water, it forms a jelly-like substance and is widely used in the food industry.—Especially in baked goods, desserts, and candies.

Where is gelatin found and how is it used?

Gelatin is widely used in many industries:

Food industry:Marshmallows, fudge, yogurt, and ice cream add texture and thickness.

Pharmaceuticals:Capsules, vitamin coatings, and tablet binders.

Appearance:Face masks, hair care products, and creams to enhance firmness and smoothness.

Other uses:Photography, film, dietary supplements, and beverages are used for clarification.

Why is Halal certification required?？

Gelatin is typically derived from pig skin or bones, or from non-halal slaughtered animals, due to its low cost-effectiveness. However, these sources are strictly prohibited under halal dietary laws, leaving consumers uncertain about the legality of the gelatin used.

Halal certification addresses this issue by ensuring transparency and peace of mind. It assures consumers that the products they consume align with their beliefs and halal values. In today's complex market, where ingredients are often unclear, halal certification builds trust and confidence, helping consumers make informed and faith-aware choices.

Halal certification ensures:

· The source animal is either a halal animal (such as beef or fish) or a plant-based animal./Vegan.

· The slaughtering process follows halal (Zabiha standard.

· Non-halal ingredients will not cause cross-contamination.

· Consumers can buy with confidence.

Why might animal-derived gelatin cause problems?？/

· Pork-derived gelatin:This is the most common and affordable source, but it is completely prohibited under halal dietary laws.

· Non-halal slaughter:Even if it comes from a cow, only according to...Zabiha (halal standard) requires animals to be slaughtered; otherwise, gelatin is not permitted.

· Hidden ingredients:Gelatin is often poorly labeled or not disclosed, making it difficult for halal consumers to verify its origin.

Alternatives to animal-derived gelatin

With the increasing awareness of halal consumers, vegetarians, and vegans, animal-based gelatin...AlternativesEasier to obtain than ever before:

Plant-based selection:

· Qiongfat(From seaweed)

· Carrageenan(From red algae)

· pectin(From fruit, especially citrus peels and apples)

· laboratoryCultivated gelatinIt does not rely on animal sources, is still under development, but has a very promising future.

These alternatives benefit both halal consumers and people who avoid animal products for health, ethical, or lifestyle reasons.

Case Analysis

A company in Hunan applied for certification of fish collagen peptides and bovine collagen peptides. However, the cowhide they used as raw material was not qualified, as traceability was difficult. They were advised to change suppliers, and Jacob's Star recommended several. However, in subsequent progress, the company continued to use this unqualified cowhide. As a result, progress was forced to halt during the on-site factory inspection, and the audit process was temporarily suspended.ShelvedAlthough we eventually rectified the issues and obtained the certificate through coordination with the auditing agency, it was a waste of time and resources.

in conclusion

Gelatin remains an important ingredient, but its animal origin often poses challenges for halal consumers. Fortunately, with the rise of halal certification and plant-based alternatives, consumers now have safe and permissible options. This shift supports inclusive food production, builds trust among communities, and encourages manufacturers to expand halal certification and vegan-friendly options in global markets.—This has created a win-win situation for both producers and consumers.