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The compatibility of modern slaughter techniques with halal slaughter: a review of the aspects of ‘modern’ slaughter methods that divide scholarly opinion within the Muslim community

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2023

A Fuseini ,
SB Wotton ,
PJ Hadley  and
TG Knowles
A Fuseini*
Affiliation:
School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK AHDB, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2TL, UK
SB Wotton
Affiliation:
School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
PJ Hadley
Affiliation:
AHDB, Creech Castle, Taunton, Somerset TA1 2DX, UK
TG Knowles
Affiliation:
School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
*
* Contact for correspondence and requests for reprints: awalfus@yahoo.com
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Abstract

The continuous expansion of the global halal meat market has attracted interest from governments, food business operators and the animal and meat science research fraternity. Despite this growing trend, and the enormous economic benefits associated with it, there is a lack of clarity regarding what is ‘authentic’ halal. Many Islamic jurists are reluctant to approve animal slaughter methods that were not practiced at the time of the Prophet of Islam, Mohammed. Others insist that since Islam holds animal welfare in high regard, any modern method of slaughter that is shown to improve animal welfare without compromising on the basic requirements of halal slaughter can be approved for halal production. This paper highlights the aspects of modern slaughter that continues to divide scholarly opinion among Islamic jurists. It also examines the arguments put forward by opponents and proponents regarding the acceptability of modern slaughter techniques for halal slaughter.

Keywords

animal welfarebleeding-outhalal slaughter; mechanical slaughterpre-slaughter stunningthoracic sticking
Type
Articles
Information
Animal Welfare , Volume 26 , Issue 3 , August 2017 , pp. 301 - 310
Copyright
© 2017 Universities Federation for Animal Welfare

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