SHARIAH-BASED EVALUATION OF PS: 3733-2022(R) OIC/SMIIC 1:2019 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR HALAL FOOD

کا فقہی مطالعہ PS: 3733-2022(R) OIC/SMIIC 1:2019

Abstract

Abstract:

This research paper presents an in-depth Fiqhi (Islamic jurisprudential) study of the Pakistan Standard PS: 3733-2022(R) OIC/SMIIC 1:2019 – General Requirements for Halal Food, issued by the PSQCA(Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority)  in accordance with the guidelines of the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC) under the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the extent to which this standard aligns with the principles of Islamic Shariah as derived from the Qur’an, Sunnah, and classical juristic sources. The article explores the linguistic, terminological, and jurisprudential interpretations of Halal and Haram, emphasizing their implications for modern food production and trade. A detailed juristic examination of key clauses related to permissible and impermissible animals, aquatic and amphibious species, plant-based materials, blood and other biological derivatives, and slaughtering procedures is conducted. The study further investigates contemporary practices such as stunning, mechanical slaughtering, and Halal certification protocols, discussing their legitimacy within the framework of Islamic law. Findings reveal that the PS: 3733-2022(R) standard generally upholds the essential requirements of Shariah in regulating Halal food systems. However, certain technical and procedural aspects, particularly those concerning stunning methods and mechanical slaughter require further clarification and consistent implementation to ensure complete compliance with Islamic jurisprudence. Overall, this research contributes to the academic discourse on Halal Management Systems, providing a scholarly foundation for policymakers, certification bodies, and industry practitioners seeking to strengthen Shariah compliance within the Halal food supply chain.