How to get Halal Certified with a Halal Consultant

When people think about Halal food, they often stop at “no pork, no lard.” But as Ms Fatin Hamid, a seasoned Halal consultant, and manager of HCS Consultants, explains in our first ever Kopitiam Konversation, Halal certification is far more comprehensive — and crucial for both food businesses and Muslim consumers.

Advantage of a Halal Certificate

Halal, which means “permissible” in Arabic, refers to food and beverages that comply with Islamic law as outlined in the Quran and Hadith. In Singapore, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) is the governing body that certifies food establishments and products as halal. For Muslims, consuming halal food is not just a preference—it is a religious obligation. Having a reliable halal certification ensures that food is free from non-halal ingredients, such as pork, alcohol, and improperly slaughtered meat, giving consumers confidence that their dietary needs are met.

Services of a Halal Consultant

Fathin shared how her consultancy supports businesses through the complex certification process. Here’s what they help with:

Assessment of All Ingredients: Even additives and processing aids are scrutinized. One non-compliant item can derail certification.

Operational Audits: Consultants often visit kitchens to observe operations. In one case, Fatin shared how they caught improper practices during an early morning surprise check.

Documentation: From supplier certificates to kitchen flowcharts — MUIS requires extensive paperwork.

Pre-Certification Training: Staff must understand Halal standards and avoid cross-contamination.

For the Muslim Consumer: Why It Matters

Fathin acknowledges that many Muslims today are more conscious of Halal authenticity. Certification ensures:

• No cross-contamination
• Traceability of ingredients
• Religious compliance with MUIS’s official standards

This is especially important for Muslims who don’t just avoid obvious haram ingredients but want assurance across the board — even in flavorings, sauces, or imported goods.

It’s a Journey, Not a Stamp

Halal certification is not a one-time badge. It requires consistent compliance, annual renewals, and ongoing staff awareness. The video ends on a powerful note: Halal isn’t just a label — it’s a responsibility.

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Thinking about getting your eatery Halal-certified? Engaging a consultant may be your best move — not just to get approved, but to truly understand what Halal means for your business and your Muslim customers.

Contact us today to learn how we can tailor our services to meet your unique needs.