MCB’s priority is to protect the Muslim community from any harm and ensure that the food they consume is Halal and Tayyab (wholesome). On the basis of this principle MCB is calling on the community to avoid processed meat products certified by organisations who have certified products found to be contaminated.
We have grave concerns that products certified by Halal Food Authority (HFA) have been found to contain pork DNA. Thus far the organisation has yet to express any regret over this whole affair, and their stance is found wanting when you compare the swift action by the Justice Minister who said, “This is an absolutely unacceptable situation and one which we regret greatly” and reassured that everything is being done to resolve the situation.
Ultimately, this episode highlights the need for a closer inspection of a common certification system that can regulate the individual certifying agencies and suppliers more effectively. All Halal certification agencies in the UK –and there are many – really must come together to restore consumer confidence.
We recommend the community to take appropriate action needed to ensure that suppliers and certifying bodies of Halal fulfil their duty. In this regard we approve the action of the Lancashire Council of Mosques to avoid HFA certified processed meat products pending results of investigation by the authorities and external audit. We ask the community to be vigilant and demand their local authorities and FSA to take enforcement action against the offenders.
We ask other certifying establishments to review their systems and procedures and advise Muslim consumers of the steps they are taking (or have taken) to ensure their products are authentic Halal. |
