@Halal September/October 2024 | Page 19

19 has been expanding rapidly , with Muslim consumers seeking assurances that the food they consume is compliant with Islamic dietary laws .
September-October . 2024 | @ Halal

Feature

19 has been expanding rapidly , with Muslim consumers seeking assurances that the food they consume is compliant with Islamic dietary laws .
According to the State of the Global Islamic Economy report by Thomson Reuters , the global halal market is projected to reach USD 2.4 trillion by 2024 , driven by the increasing purchasing power of Muslim consumers and a growing awareness of halal standards .
This growth is fueled by the expanding Muslim population , which exceeds 1.9 billion , and the increasing purchasing power of consumers seeking products that comply with Islamic law .
This trend is particularly pronounced in countries with large Muslim populations , such as Indonesia , Malaysia , and the Middle East . Still , it is also gaining traction in non-Muslim-majority countries where the Muslim population is significant .
By positioning itself as a key player in this market , FGV IF has taken a proactive stance in addressing these needs , capitalising on the growing trend for halal products in both local and international markets .
NAVIGATING CHALLENGES
Sourcing raw materials that comply with halal standards can be a challenge , particularly in animal feed production . Many animal feed ingredients , such as additives or by-products , must adhere to strict guidelines to be considered halal .
“ One of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring that our raw materials are free from contamination and meet the stringent requirements laid out by the halal certification body ,” Razak added .
THE FEED ACT 2009
Another key aspect in ensuring compliance and quality is the Feed Act 2009 .
In Malaysia , animal feed production is governed by this act , which regulates the import , manufacture , sale , and use of animal feed and feed additives . The law ’ s objective is to ensure that animal feed is safe , not harmful to livestock , and free from contaminants that could affect the animals
Razak ( 2nd from left ) pictured with the Black Soldier Fly Larvae ( BSFL ).
or make their products unsafe for human consumption .
FGV IF follows the guidelines set out by the Feed Act while also incorporating halal requirements into its processes .
Razak explained : “ Though the Feed Act focuses primarily on safety and quality , we see halal compliance as an additional layer of assurance for our consumers .”
The intersection of these regulations ensures that FGV IF ’ s feed products are both safe and compliant with Islamic law .
Additionally , FGV IF has implemented stringent measures to ensure that all products continue to comply with halal standards post-certification .
This includes regular audits and close monitoring of the supply chain to prevent contamination or the introduction of non-halal elements . The company has also invested in training programmes for employees , suppliers , and partners to educate them about halal processes .
Razak also stressed the importance of education in maintaining halal integrity .
“ Our customers and partners need to understand the significance of halal compliance , and we take pride in providing them with the necessary knowledge to ensure that every part of the supply chain adheres to these principles .”
MOVING FORWARD
Looking forward , FGV IF ’ s strategic focus on improving feed quality and operational efficiency underscores its role in addressing the pressing challenges of food security .
The company ’ s commitment to ensuring that its products meet the proper regulations and safety standards places it at the forefront of the feed industry .
Razak concluded : “ We believe that our dedication to contribute significantly to the stability and resilience of the food supply chain , as well as FGV ’ s commitment in ensuring food security for the nation will continue to set us apart in the market .” –