NOVEMBER-DECEMBER . 2023 | @ Halal
Column
19
Halal Aquafeed
Solution : Establishment of halal aquafeed standards
What is Halal Aquafeed ? Aquatic animal feed that adheres to Islamic dietary laws , ensuring that all its ingredients and production processes are in compliance with halal standards .
The Missing Link :
Global Concerns :
Inclusion of non-halal components , growth enhancers , and the use of genetically modified crops as feed ingredients .
The absence of standardized halal aquafeed certification poses challenges in ensuring the halal status of seafood , especially fresh products .
fication procedures hindering the production of certified halal feeds and making it difficult for farmers to access them .
Nevertheless , there are existing legal and regulatory frameworks in Malaysia related to animal feed that can serve as a starting point in developing such standards .
1
Some noteworthy examples include : . Animal Feed Act 2009 : This act sets out the general requirements for monitoring feed quality . It addresses aspects like importation , manufacture , sale , and use of feed and feed additives to ensure they meet nutritional needs , are safe for animals , are uncontaminated , and do not pose risks to human consumption . It also covers licensing for importers , compliance with specifications , and control over the use of antibiotics , hormones , and chemicals in
2 feed . . Feed Regulations 2012 : These regulations cover aspects like feed labelling , analysis methods , import licensing , prohibited substances , and manufacture and sale of feed and feed additives . They emphasise the need for clear and permanent labelling
3 of feed and additives . . Animal Feed Guidelines 2012 : These guidelines , prepared by the Department of Veterinary Services , assist in implementing the Animal Feed Act 2009 . They include guidelines for licensing importers , registration for feed and feed additive makers or sellers , monitoring samples for feed and feed additives , and sample management procedures for enforcement
4 actions . . Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2012 : Section 13 of this bill outlines requirements for animal feeding , ensuring access to sufficient drinking water , suitable food , and nourishment free from hazards while also being adequate for the animals ’ needs .
5
. Certification Schemes : The Department of Veterinary Services ( DVS ) and Department of Fisheries ( DOF ) in Malaysia offer various certification schemes , such as Good Veterinary Hygiene Practice , Veterinary Health Mark , Malaysian Good Agricultural Practices ( MyGAP ), Livestock Farm Practices Scheme ( SALT ), and Malaysian Aquaculture Farm Certificate ( SPLAM ). These schemes promote and ensure good practices and safety standards in the industry .
CHALLENGES AND WAY FORWARD IN ESTABLISHING HALAL AQUAFEED STANDARDS
However , establishing halal standards for aquafeed may face several key challenges . Firstly , there is a lack of a universally recognised regulatory framework for halal animal feeds , including aquafeed , at both local and international levels , in contrast to the established framework for halal food products .
Secondly , the diverse range of ingredients used in aquafeed can complicate ensuring compliance with halal requirements across the entire supply chain . Moreover , crosscontamination risks may arise in production facilities shared by conventional and halal feed manufacturers .
Finally , the development and implementation of halal aquafeed standards come with associated costs , which could impact both producers and certifying bodies , potentially affecting the pricing of halal products .
Several solutions and a forward-looking approach are recommended to address the
challenges in establishing halal aquafeed . To begin , it is essential for industry stakeholders , encompassing aquaculture producers , halal certification bodies , and regulatory agencies , to engage in collaborative efforts to establish standardised halal aquafeed guidelines .
Second , implementing robust ingredient traceability systems is crucial to ensure that all elements of aquafeed adhere to halal criteria . Furthermore , halal certification bodies can play a pivotal role by devising specific protocols for aquafeed certification , which should address concerns such as cross-contamination .
Lastly , promoting education and awareness among consumers about the intricacies of halal aquafeed and the proactive measures being undertaken can build trust and foster a better understanding of the situation .
NAVIGATING UNCHARTED WATERS
The absence of standardised halal aquafeed certification challenges the aquaculture industry and consumers seeking halal seafood options . As the global demand for halal products continues to grow , addressing this issue is crucial to meeting consumer expectations and ensuring the integrity of the halal supply chain .
While the path to establishing these standards may be complex , there comes a time when we must embark on a journey through uncharted waters . Much like intrepid explorers of old who set sail into the unknown , we face the daunting task of establishing a guideline or standard where none existed .
However , with the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in aquaculture and the halal industry , our determination can pave the way for a future where halal aquafeed is a reality . –