Article: Fundamentals of Halal Foods and Certification -- January 2010

According to a latest estimation by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, there are about 1.57 billion Muslims in the world today, and they comprise 23% of the global population of 6.8 billion. The global halal food market is currently valued at $635 billion per year, and, according to the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America, the U.S. halal market is estimated at $17.6 billion. Besides Muslims, other segments have joined the ranks of halal consumers, as these types of foods gain worldwide recognition as being safe and hygienic. Non-Muslim consumers like them, because of their additional safety and sanitation features, making them less likely to be cross-contaminated. [...]there is tremendous economic opportunity for food manufacturers to meet the needs of all consumers of halal food products. Food processors should be aware of the following common food ingredients and their sources: food additives; amino acids; animal fat and protein; colors; dressings, sauces and seasonings; emulsifiers; enzymes; fats and oils; fat-based coatings, grease and release agents; flavors and flavorings; gelatin; glycerin; hydrolyzed protein; meat and its by-products; packaging materials; stabilizers; thickening agents; vitamins; and whey protein.