New harmonisation body will take the ‘joke’ out of profit-seeking halal certification

The inauguration of the International Halal Authority Board (IHAB) in Kuala Lumpur on April 3 came at a time when a large number of observers believes a “sea change” is needed in halal accreditation and certification. Many in the industry believe that profit-seeking is threatening some to lose sight o f the principles of halal, and they're looking to the new IHAB to restore focus on serving the Muslim community. We speak to industry stakeholders Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA), the Sudanese Halal Council and the GCC Standardisation Organisation.