Is it safe for Halal dieters to eat pork?
Quick Answer
No
Pork is not considered Halal and is forbidden in the Islamic dietary law. Therefore, it is not safe for individuals following a Halal diet to consume pork.
What Is It?
Halal is an Arabic term that means ‘permissible’ in English. In the context of diet, it refers to foods that are permissible according to Islamic law, as defined in the Quran. The opposite of Halal is Haram, which means ‘forbidden’. Pork, being a product of a pig, is considered Haram and is not permissible for consumption by those following a Halal diet.
Historical Context
The prohibition of pork in Islam dates back to the religion’s inception in the 7th century CE. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, explicitly forbids the consumption of pork in several verses.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming pork when following a Halal diet not only goes against religious beliefs but can also lead to social and psychological discomfort among peers and within the community.
- Religious Discomfort
- Social Discomfort
Safe Alternatives
There are many Halal alternatives to pork. These include beef, chicken, lamb, and fish, all of which must be slaughtered according to Islamic law to be considered Halal.