by Tengku Haydan

Ever wondered what halal really means and why it’s becoming a big deal in places like the U.S. and Europe? Whether you’re Muslim or not, halal food and products are making waves worldwide. But finding halal options in non-Muslim-majority countries isn’t always easy. Let’s dive into the challenges, the hype, and why more people—Muslims and non-Muslims alike—are paying attention to halal!

Why Halal is Booming in the West

Even in places where halal isn’t the norm, demand is skyrocketing. Muslims make up a growing percentage of the population in Europe and America, and they’re looking for food and products that meet their religious requirements. In 2023, the global halal market was valued at over $2.3 trillion, with food making up the largest segment.

But here’s the kicker: Many non-Muslims are jumping on the halal bandwagon too! Why? Because halal food is often seen as cleaner, healthier, and more ethical. A 2022 study found that 35% of non-Muslims in the UK purchase halal products due to their perceived quality and ethical production methods.

Big brands like McDonald’s, Nestlé, and Unilever have started offering halal-certified options. In the U.S., the halal food market is projected to reach $9.71 billion by 2025. Plus, halal grocery stores, restaurants, and even food festivals are popping up in cities everywhere. It’s not just about religious belief anymore—it’s a global trend!

The Struggles of Finding Halal in Non-Muslim Countries

Despite its growth, getting halal food and products isn’t always a walk in the park. Here’s why:

1. Not Easily Available – Unless you live in a big city, finding halal food in regular supermarkets can be tough.
2. Confusing Certifications – There are over 400 halal certification bodies worldwide, leading to inconsistent standards.
3. Misinformation & Stereotypes – Some people think halal is just about religious restrictions, but it’s actually about ethical and hygienic practices too.
4. Legal Barriers – Some European countries, like Denmark and Belgium, have restrictions on halal meat preparation, making things even more complicated.

The Golden Opportunities for Halal in the West

If you’re a business or just someone looking to explore halal products, there’s a lot of potential here:

1. Growing Market – The Muslim population in Europe is expected to reach 35 million by 2050, driving demand for halal goods.
2. Appealing to Everyone – Many non-Muslims prefer halal because it often means higher quality and ethical sourcing.
3. Online Shopping Boom – Thanks to e-commerce, you can now order halal products from almost anywhere, with online halal food sales increasing by 25% annually.
4. Big Retailers Getting Involved – Supermarkets like Tesco, Carrefour, and Walmart are waking up to the demand, making halal more mainstream.
5. Support from Governments & Organizations – Countries like Malaysia and the UAE are leading global halal certification efforts, helping businesses navigate international markets.

Success Stories: Who’s Doing It Right?

• United Kingdom: Major supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s now have dedicated halal sections, with the UK halal market worth over $4.5 billion.
• United States: Fast food chains and brands like Crescent Foods and Saffron Road are leading the halal revolution. The number of halal restaurants in the U.S. grew by 29% between 2016 and 2022.
• France & Germany: Despite some restrictions, halal markets are thriving, catering to millions of Muslim consumers. France alone accounts for 60% of the European halal market.

Halal isn’t just for Muslims—it’s a growing global movement that’s catching on with people who care about quality, ethics, and sustainability. Even in non-Muslim countries, businesses and consumers are embracing halal like never before. Whether you’re looking for better food options or thinking of tapping into a booming industry, halal is worth paying attention to!