HALAAL NEWS 2

Q & A 4 - 5

COFFEE-THE WINE OF ISLAM 6

COMPETITION 6

SMILE AWHILE 7

CERTIFIED ESTABLISHMENTS 8

PUBLIC APPEAL 8

WAYS TO BOOST YOUR MEMORY 3

HIGHLIGHTS

Volume 4 Issue 1

Safar 1429 / February 2008

The following article has been reproduced with permission from the Halaal

Monitoring Committee (HMC) of England’s Newsletter Issue 11.

I n October 2007, HMC was approached by a Global meat supplier and manufacturer to investigate and inspect on its behalf the

Brazilian ‘Halal’ market. Brazil, along with Aus-tralia and New Zealand are the world’s largest exporters of meat and processed products feed-ing the global hunger for Halal Products. Much of these supplies head to the Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Dubai, Oman, Qatar, Africa and Europe.

This month we reveal the shocking and confi-dential findings of our man from his trip through the wild west of Brazil and the practices from a continent apart. Nevertheless, meat and poultry finds its way to our palates in a global world where distances have shrunk and we the Ummah consume blindly in good faith – Allah forgive us all for our lack of knowledge and shortcomings.

Travelling 12,500 miles by air and covering 1,800 miles by land, working through the night across the vast terrains of Brazil, this expose uncovers the malpractices in Brazil - one of the world’s largest suppliers of the Halal food Industry. This investigation attempted access to 18 of the largest abattoirs in Brazil. According to the Brazilian Poultry Exporters Association, a staggering 718,000 tons of chicken were exported to the Middle east from January to September 2007 and 402,000 tons to the European Union during the same period. By the grace of the Almighty we gained access and enquiries were made of 11 abattoirs and the findings were unfortunately quite shocking: • No Muslim slaughtermen at many of the sites • No recitation of Tasmiyah (name of Allah) • Stunning prevalent at the majority of the sites

(risk of many animals being dead at the point of slaughter) • No knowledge of Halal and its basic rules • Mechanical slaughter used at majority of sites

To some extent, it comes as no surprise to HMC as it has con-sistently found mal-practice in the name of Halal – the most abused brand in the world. The vegetarian society (v) is protected more than the 1400 year old Halal engrave which stands unpro-tected – Allah forgive us. This so-called ‘Halal’ meat then finds its way to our holiest of cities, self certified by many scrupulous practices un-der the guise of Halal. The scale of the op-erations has even alarmed us and the many genuine organisations across the Middle East. HMC continues to promote genuine Halal and once again the need and rigour of a continuous monitoring and inspection system is confirmed to guarantee the provision of Halal to the Muslim Ummah – “Your Seal of Assurance” May Allah help our campaign to uncover deceit and give us strength to fight and give the Ummah the choice they deserve, genuine pure Halal, the basic foundation we need to conduct our lives. Please support HMC in its tireless efforts “for the people and of the people”. Ameen.

Source: Halaal Monitoring Committee (HMC) Newsletter Issue 11

ZAMHA Comment: The article paints a very grim picture regarding meat imported in to Muslim coun-tries especially in the Middle East. It comes as no surprise that the duas of the Ummah are not being accepted! We hereby call on all Muslim governments to

investigate the true Halaal status of imported meat and poultry, instead of relying on bogus Halaal marks and sym-bols. Furthermore, it is the incumbent duty of every Muslim to take necessary precautions when visiting such countries.

May Allah guide the Muslim Ummah. Aameen.

(Continued on Pg 7 )

A fter reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of en-ergy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No won-der the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

Post Menstrual Syndrome (PMS): Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 PAGE 2

“Whoever believes in Allah and His Rasûl , he should not partake from a table upon which wine is served.” (Tirmizi)

HALAAL GAZETTE

Hot Liquids Release Harmful Chemicals in Polycarbonate Bottles Pouring hot water on polycarbonate plastic bottles appears to release the potentially harmful chemical bisphenol A (BPA). Scientists at the University of Cincinnati say that when polycarbonate drinking bottles were exposed to boiling hot water, BPA, an environmental estrogen, was released 55 times more rapidly than before exposure to hot water. The chemical migrates in small amounts into food and beverages from packaging containing the substance but it was not understood why. The new study shows that it is not whether the container is new or old but the liquid's temperature that has the most impact on how much BPA is released. BPA which is widely used in plastic food containers, baby bottles, cans, toys and dental sealants has been shown to affect reproduction and brain development in animal studies. In 2005 Japanese scientists claimed a link between BPA and recurrent miscarriages. Some groups advocate that it should be removed to protect human health. US Law to curb Obesity Lawmakers have proposed legislation that forbids restaurants and food establishments from serving food to anyone who is obese (as defined by the State). Under this bill, food establishments are to be moni-tored for compliance under the State Department of Health and violators will have their business permits revoked. House Bill 282 was introduced in the Mississippi legislature on 25th January 2008.Should this pass, scales will appear at the door of restaurants and people with BMIs (Body Mass Index) of 30 or higher will not be allowed to be served. To comply with government regulations, restaurants will have to keep records of patrons' BMIs. Ginger shows potential against infant diarrhea A study by researchers from Taiwan's China Medical University suggests that ginger has potential as a herbal supplement against bacteria-induced diarrhoea. The study, by that if confirmed by further studies, the findings could lead to an inexpensive, easy-to-obtain alternative to drug therapy for the condition. Diarrhoea is a common condition that causes an average of 2.4 million doctor's visits in the US each year. Children younger than the age of five and the elderly can develop severe health problems if their condition leads to dehydration. "In this study, we demonstrated for the first time that, in addition to an antiemetic effect [effective against nausea), ginger extracts exhibit anti-diarrhoeal activities by blocking the binding of LTB to GM1," wrote the authors. The researchers called for additional studies to de-termine the effective doses of ginger needed and whether it is safe for infants, who may experience unexpected side effects from large doses.

Food Safety Laws Enforced Breaching food safety rules can lead to jail, as the executive of a UK food manufacturer has discovered. William John Tudor of John Tudor & Son, in Bridgend, South Wales was sentenced by Cardiff Crown Court on Friday to a year in jail for seven offences relating to a fatal outbreak of E.coli O157 in 2005. The sentence indicates that regulators are taking a tougher line on breaches of food safety regulations. Tudor, who pleaded guilty to the charges, was head of (Continued on Pg 3 )

a processor that supplied meat to local area schools. An outbreak of E.coli 0157 in September 2005 that led to 157 cases of food poisoning - and one death - was traced back to contaminated meat supplied by the company. In June, Cadbury was fined £1m after it pleaded guilty in a UK court to three breaches of the country's food and hygiene regulations, admitting it was responsible for allowing salmonella-contaminated chocolate to be sold on the market last year. The com-pany was forced to recall about one million chocolate bars after 37 people fell sick across the country due to salmonella. Are You a Chocolate Addict ? Scientists from the University of Oxford claim they have found similarities in brain activity between those addicted to drugs and those addicted to chocolate. The study, published in the European Journal of Neuroscience, examined the brain responses of those addicted to chocolate when they saw or ate chocolate, in order to understand behavioural choices and what drives people to eat certain foods.

The study used MRI scans to focus on the hedonic effects of chocolate in cravers and non-cravers in the areas of the brain which have been proven to be involved in those with drug addictions. The scientists used various combinations of liquid

chocolate and pictures of both light and dark chocolate versus a condensed milk comparison, in order to test the effects of taste and sight on the subjects. "The findings underlie the importance of conditioned cues, such as the sight of chocolate, in producing different effects in different individuals," the study claims. The researchers said the study has shown people react differently to craved foods,

related to their liking and the amount eaten. Alcohol Linked To Violent Behavior Investigators at the University of Victoria, Centre for Addictions Research assessed how frequently subjects in a substance abuse treatment facility reported using cocaine, alcohol, and/or cannabis in the hours immediately prior to committing a violent act. Researchers also evaluated subjects’ personality for characteristics associated with violent behavior, such as risk-taking, impulsivity, and/or disrespect for the law. Investigators concluded that the effects of alcohol and cocaine may play a role in violence. The second review, published by the British Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs, reported: "… alcohol use is a major factor in deliberate self-harm, domestic accidents and violence."

Most recently, a logistical regression analysis of approximately 900 trauma patients published in the Journal of TRAUMA Injury, Infection, and Critical Care, determined that alcohol and cocaine use are as-sociated with violence-related injuries, the study found.

ZAMHA Comment: We thank the Almighty for saving us from the evils of intoxicants by declaring them unlawful more than 14 centuries ago. Pepsi Confesses - Bottled Water is Tap Water Pepsi has been forced to make an embarrassing admission - its best-selling Aquafina bottled water is mere tap water. At the end of July Pepsi agreed to change the labels of Aquafina to include the words

. if made from Human Hair, Haraam: Status. Flour improver used in bakery products including bread -cysteine -L

PAGE 3 VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 HALAAL GAZETTE

( Continued from Pg 2) "Public Water Source," under pressure from the advocacy group Corporate Accountability International Critics charge the bottled water industry adds plastic to landfills, uses too much energy by producing and shipping bottles across the world and undermines confidence in the safety and cleanliness of public water supplies, all while much of the world's popula-tion is without access to clean water. In San Francisco, Mayor Gavin Newsom recently banned city departments from using city money to buy any kind of bottled water. In New York, local residents are being urged to drink tap water. The U.S. Conference of Mayors has passed a resolution that highlighted the importance of municipal water and called for more scrutiny of the impact of bottled water on city waste. No More Goo in Your Chewing Gum A UK company claims to have developed a polymer that can remove the stickiness of chewing gum, while still maintaining its taste. Revolymer, a company formed by the University of Bristol, said that by adding an amphiphilic polymer to modified chewing gum, it will no longer stick to many surfaces.

It is possible to remove the Clean Gum from shoes, clothes, pavements and hair, as well as being naturally degradable in water, the company said. "The advantage of our Clean Gum is that is has a great taste, it is easy to remove and has the potential to be environmentally degradable," said Terence Cosgrove of the University of Bristol and chief scientific officer of Revolymer. The company tested the product on pavements in local high streets and said the Revolymer gum was removed within 24 hours, whereas the commercial gums remained stuck to the pavements three out of four times, Revolymer said. Those Crunchy McDonald’s Fries!!! McDonald's announced in the 1990's that it changed its frying oil from animal fat to vegetable oil for those who are vegetarian. However, it turned out that this information did not turn out to be completely true. French fries are fried slightly in animal fat then frozen and shipped to all the McDonald's stores for the final frying. The following information was announced on the Arabic BBC channel: Basically, what they do is they cut the potatoes into slices and then coat them with a thin layer of lard (pig fat) or cow fat so that when it is fried it will crunch. Then these fries are shipped to McDonald's stores in different parts of the world including India and the Arab countries.

McDonald's apologized to the Indians after receiving complaints, since a good number of Indians do not eat anything that has ingredients derived from animals. And of course no apology has been made to the Arab countries.

E veryone forgets things from time to time. But for some people, poor memory can be a perennial problem. The brain never actually loses a memory. It records each one like a

computer. However, problems with recall begin when we don't practice retrieving this information and so the memories we had become lost. The brain, like other parts of the body, needs physical and mental exercise, together with particular nutrients, to increase the power of memory. Here are 10 things to remember to do in order never to forget anything…

1 – Eat Soya According to Professor Sandra File, head of the psychopharmacology research unit at Guy's Hospital in London, isoflavones, the natural plant oestrogens in soya foods, might act on oestrogen receptors in the human brain, particularly those in the hippocampus, a crucial

area for memory. As a result, new nerve connections form more readily. Medical trials revealed that those fed a high soya diet showed improvements in verbal and non-verbal memory and in mental flexibility, all of which are controlled by the brain's frontal lobes. Soya can be added to the diet through natural products such as soya milk or through a recommended daily 50mg soy isoflavone supplement.

2 - Take memory Minerals Studies at Kings College, London, and the University of Rochester in New York showed that a reduced iron intake can have a detrimental effect on IQ levels and cognitive func-tion. This is because of lack of iron causes low haemoglobin levels, which affect the supply of oxygen to the brain. Iron also plays an important role in the transmission of signals in the brain. A deficiency of zinc, found in oysters, red meat and peanuts, can also interfere with memory. Take a supplement of 7 to 9mg daily.

3 – Drink Coffee Caffeine can improve mental and memory performance because it stimulates many regions of the brain that regulate wakefulness, arousal, mood and concentration. Researchers at the University of Arizona found that older adults who drank half a pint of coffee just before a memory test saw a large improvement in performance compared to those who drank decaffeinated coffee. However, the benefits might be confined to regu-lar coffee drinkers. Others could suffer side effects such as shakiness, anxiety or im-paired concentration. It's still best to drink no more than six cups of coffee a day – those with heart problems should drink less. Too much brewed or percolated coffee can raise blood cholesterol – instant or filter coffee are better choices.

4 – Mental Exercise Research has shown that mental stimulation keeps the brain healthy and increases the strength of memory. As we age, it is normal to have changes in memory, but keeping the mind active does diminish weaknesses. Clinical psychologist Ron Bracey suggests using techniques such as puzzles, crosswords and widening cultural and social interests, all of which create different pathways in the brain.

5 – Physical Exercise Half-an-hour of activity three times a week is enough to bring about significant increase in brain power; says a study at the Duke University Medical Centre in North Carolina. Exercise improves the heart’s ability to pump blood more effectively. Memory benefits from improved blood flow to specific regions at the front of the brain whose functions include planning, organization and the ability to juggle different intellectual tasks.

6 – Chew Gum Japanese researchers found that activity in the hippocampus, an area of the brain impor-tant for memory, increases while people chew. Recent research suggests that insulin receptors in the brain may be involved too, as chewing releases insulin because the body is expecting food. But, says Dr Andre Scholey of the University of Northumbria, the simplest reason could be that chewing increases the heart rate, thus improving the delivery of oxygen to the brain and enhancing its cognitive powers.

7 – Take Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo is the world’s oldest living tree. It has been used for memory enhancement in Eastern cultures for thousands of years. Dr George Lewith, complementary health consultant to Boots, says Ginkgo improves blood circulation to the brain by dilating blood vessels and increasing its oxygen supply. Ginkgo also mops up harmful compounds known as free radicals, which are thought to damage brain cells. Advised supplement dose is 120mg a day.

9 – Eat oily fish Omega 3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, are essential components of brain cell mem-branes, and their role in cell structure is thought to improve the powers of memory. High concentrations of Omega 3 in the brain and nervous system not only boost learning powers and age-related memory, but also greatly enhance mood. Omega 3 is a particularly important during foetal development, so pregnant women should have a regular supply. Good sources include fish such as sardines, salmon, herring and mackerel. Sardines are also a rich source of the nutrient choline, which is a key brain chemical associated with memory. Try to eat three portions of oily fish a week or take a supplement of 330mg three times a week.

9 – Rosemary and sage Essential oil made from rosemary and sage can stimulate the memory, strengthen clarity and awareness and help to relieve mental fatigue. Psychologists at the University of Northumbria tested essential oils from rosemary on memory attention and mood and discovered it made volunteers feel more alert and enhanced their long-term memory by around 15%. Some studies have found that volunteers’ ability to remember lists of words improved by more than 10% if they had taken a capsule of sage oil.

10 – Take vitamin B B vitamins deliver oxygen to the brain and provide protection against free radicals. They help to sharpen senses and boost memory. Niacin or B3 is particularly good for brain enhancement, while B6 is essential for the manufacture of neurotransmitters, especially mood-enhancing serotonin. B12 is important for overall health of brain cells. B vitamins are also needed to help the body form acetylcholine, a key brain chemical needed for memory.

The Star – April 12 2002

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 PAGE 4

Lard: Animal Fat derived from pigs Status: Haraam

HALAAL GAZETTE

Q A friend of mine told me that Taurine is Haraam and all energy drinks such as Red

Bull and USN products contain Taurine. May you please give me some information on this because I’ve been using these products for many years.

A In terms of information at our disposal the Taurine that is used in Red Bull is of a synthetic

nature and therefore Halaal suitable.

Whilst the USN Protein Shakes are Halaal suitable, the remainder of USN products are NOT approved by ZAMHA as the disclosures have been inconclusive.

Q I’ve been told that it is Haraam to eat sushi, on the basis that it is Haraam to eat raw

fish. Is this correct?

A There is no prohibition against eating raw fish. Raw fish/Sushi is Halaal provided no Haraam

additives, sauces, etc. are added and the area of preparation is free from other Haraam contaminants.

Q I would please like to know if Bakers Vitasnacks is Halaal suitable?

A In terms of information at our disposal, Bakers Vita snacks vegetable based flavours are Halaal

suitable.

We should abstain from snacks having meat connotated flavours, e.g. BBQ, Beef, etc.

Q I have heard the Vaseline Intensive Care Product Range,

excluding the Aloe has Urea in it which is not permissible to use. Can you please confirm this.

A Urea used in cosmetics / skin care products has thus far been

found to be of a synthesised chemical source and is therefore not regarded objectionable for use by Muslims.

Q I wanted to know if the AXE, SHIELD, SANEX and RADOX range of roll-ons for men

and women are suitable?

A The Axe, Shield, Sanex and Radox range of roll-ons are Halaal suitable.

Q Which ingredients should we look out for in toothpastes?

A Ingredients like glycerin, humectants flavourants and colourants are critical and need to be queried

as they can be derived from either Halaal or Haraam sources.

Q I am currently residing in Dubai and have come across the County Fair meat products

at the main Supermarket outlet. I would like to know if these products are Halaal and I would also like some advise on the Halaal meat products that I could purchase from Dubai.

A ZAMHA does NOT approve of County Fair meat products.

We would recommend products which are manufactured/imported by Dubai Co-op Islami under their Al-Islami Brand as they personally supervise the production etc. and make every effort to produce “Real Halaal”.

Q Please advise which sliced cheeses are Halaal.

A The Parmalat Maxi Slice, DairyBelle and Dairy World cheese slices are certified Halaal.

Q Can you help us out in locating Halaal restaurants in Makkah, Madinah and Dubai,

especially KFC, Pizza Hut, Al-Baik, Al-Taazij, etc.

A Regrettably, we have no jurisdiction nor possess in-depth information on these outlets, their

sources of meat and ingredient supply etc. and therefore cannot comment on their Halaal Status or otherwise.

It is alleged that the mentioned hotels / restaurants etc. use imported meats. One should therefore be wary and exercise extreme caution.

Q Are we allowed to use moisturizers/face creams containing collagen?

A Collagen is the most common protein in connective tissue, bones, tendons and skin of

animals and fish. Where fish/marine collagen is used, it would be acceptable for Muslims to use such moisturisers and cosmetics. We should abstain from products where animal collagen is used as such collagen can be derived from non-Halaal animals including pigs.

Q Please advise as to whether Stimorol chewing gums are Halaal. Could you also

provide a list of chewing gums that are Halaal.

A In terms of information at our disposal the following Stimorol products contain gelatin

of non-Halaal slaughtered animals: Stimorol – Sugar Free Musk Stimorol - Fresh Zone Peppermint Stimorol - Fresh Zone Spearmint Stimorol - Sugar Free Wild Cherry Stimorol - Sugar Free Apple Stimorol - Sugar Free Watermelon Stimorol – Sugar Free Spearmint

Stimorol – Tablets In terms of information at our disposal

Dentyne, Clorets, Bubbaloo and Chappies are Halaal suitable.

If you would like to enquire about any other specific chewing gum, please feel free to contact us.

Q I would like to find out whether St. Chocolat: Occasions Coffee Cremes by Beacon is Halaal

or not?

A In terms of information at our disposal St. Chocolate: Occasions Coffee Cremes is Halaal

suitable. St. Chocolat Strawberry Creams, however, contains E120 which is derived from crushed insects and should thus be avoided.

Q Is the 'Johnson & Johnson' REACH waxed dental floss permissible to use?

A In terms of information at our disposal, 'Johnson & Johnson' REACH waxed dental floss is permissible

to use.

Q Please advise if Vital Multitime (Hair, Skin and Nails) capsules are Halaal.

A In terms of information at our disposal the Vital range of capsules contain gelatin which is derived

from non-Halaal slaughtered animals. Therefore, they should be avoided.

Q Could you please enlighten me on the Halaal status of the Flora margarine product range.

A In terms of information at our disposal, Flora Margarine products are Halaal suitable.

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 PAGE 5

E120 - Cochineal Carmine - a red colour obtained from female insects. Status: Haraam

HALAAL GAZETTE

Q I used to cook non-Halaal meat in a pot, but recently changed my opinion. I only eat

Halaal meat now. So can i use the same pots that I used to cook the Haraam meat for the Halaal meat or do I have to buy new pots and new forks and knives?

A If the pots and utensils are in good order, there is no need to replace them with new ones.

What is required is that the utensils be ‘thoroughly’ washed (preferably three times) so that one is satis-fied that there is no risk of any remaining residue etc. Once cleansed, the utensils be exclusively dedicated for Halaal food preparation. Yes, where the utensil is badly damaged or scarred in the inside to such an extent whereby residues, etc. cannot be removed from the crevices then it will be necessary to replace such items.

Q I bought Green Cross sandals . I later found out on the Green Cross web site that they

contain pig skin linings or soles. What is the ruling on this? I am very disappointed as I bought them from a reputable Muslim shop.

A Kindly be advised that Green Cross sandals are made of either pig skin, which is impermissible,

or beef hide, which is permissible. Kindly obtain the Green Cross brochure with product codes which clarifies the type of skin used on the particular san-dal. Many Muslim traders are unaware of this fact and, therefore, this situation does arise. Please alert the Muslim trader you purchased the sandal from and I'm sure he will gladly refund your money.

Q Please advise which I & J products are Halaal

A The I & J beef burger products are certified Halaal. The I & J

chicken range of products are NOT certified. In terms of information at our disposal the I & J Fish product range is Halaal suitable.

Q Please advise if you are aware of the source of the chicken which Al-Baik in Saudi Arabia

use. Some persons have a doubt on their chicken since it is sourced from South America?

A The spices and seasonings ex-USA used by the Al-Baik Chicken Franchise has been evaluated and

found to be Halaal compliant. We cannot however comment on the poultry used by Al-Baik, Saudi Arabia. It is alleged that many restaurants in Saudi use imported chickens which are doubtful.

Q Are Pyotts Mini Cheddars Halaal.

A In terms of information at our disposal Pyotts Mini Cheddars are Halaal suitable. However, we

do NOT approve of the meat connotated flavours, e.g. Bacon, smoked beef, etc.

Q Are all Parmalat cheeses Halaal?

A Besides the processed cheeses, processed cheese slices and Melrose (which contain

gelatin of non-Halaal slaughtered animals), all other Parmalat and Bonnita branded cheese products are certified Halaal.

Q I would like to know if Gross naturally fermented white spirit vinegar made by 'The

Instant Trading Company' is Halaal? I would also like to know if the Safari white grape spirit vinegar is Halaal? Both have 0,1g alcohol on the label.

A The Gross white spirit vinegar and Safari white grape spirit vinegar are both Halaal suitable.

All vinegars are deemed Halaal unless there is any added non-Halaal ingredient which would alter the products Halaal status.

Q Are Pringles Halaal?

A In terms of information at our disposal Pringles is Halaal suitable, however we do NOT approve of

the meat connotated flavours eg. BBQ etc.

Q What is Cochineal Carmine? I've seen it in a biscuit called Dobro Napolita? Please advise?

A E120 Cochineal Carmine is a crushed insect derivative. Muslims should avoid products con-

taining this ingredient.

Q Please advise if InaPaarman’s Muffin, Scone, and Chocolate Mousse are Halaal. Also, is the

InaPaarmans Creamy Cheese Pasta sauce Halaal?

A In terms of info at our disposal the InaPaarman’s Muffin and Scone Mixes

are Halaal suitable. The Creamy Cheese Pasta sauce is also Halaal suitable.

However, the InaPaarman’s Chocolate Mousse contains non-Halaal gelatin, which should be avoided.

Q Are the Palmolive Range of Shampoos Halaal? They con-

tain Glycerine.

A Palmolive Shampoos containing glycerine are Halaal suitable.

However, abstain from the Wine & Rosemary variant.

Q Are the following products Halaal: Eno Tums, B-Tabs Chewy C tablets, Mcvities Range of

Biscuits.

A In terms of info at our disposal all the queried products are Halaal suitable.

Q Are the Shapeworks Nutritional Shake Mixes made by Herbalife Halaal suitable?

A In terms of info at our disposal Shapeworks Nutritional Shake Mix (All Flavours) by Herbalife

are Halaal suitable.

Q Are the Dandy Sugar-coated chewing gums from Zimbabwe Halaal? Gelatin is listed as

one of the ingredients.

A In terms of info at our disposal, the Dandy range of chewing gums have been certified Halaal by the

Islamic Halaal Council of Zimbabwe (IHCOZ). The Gelatin used is made from Halaal slaughtered animals.

Q Is Aquafresh Whitening Halaal?

A In terms of info at our disposal Aquafresh Whitening is NOT Halaal.

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 PAGE 6

E904 - Shellac (Glazing or Polishing Agent) - a resin from the lac insect. Status: Avoid

HALAAL GAZETTE

C offee was at one stage purely associated with Muslims to the

extent that Europeans called it, "The wine of Islam."

More than 500 billion cups of coffee are consumed annually throughout the world. Coffee is the world's second-most-valuable commodity exported by developing coun-tries, after oil. The global coffee industry earns an estimated $60 billion annually. Medical researchers associate positive health benefits to moderate coffee consumption, including improved mood and the prevention of gallstone and kidney stone formation.

THE FIRST COFFEE The coffee plant originally grew in Ethiopia where a goatherd called Khalid or Kaldi first noticed its energetic effects on his goats which ate the coffee-berries. Yemen is however the true home of coffee as a beverage.

Umar, a sufi of Yemen, was renowned for his ability to cure the sick through both dua and medicine. Some people however opposed him and exiled him to the desert

outside the port of al-Mukhaa. He was close to dying when he stumbled across a small tree in the arid desert. Believing it to be a sign from Allah, the Shaykh attempted to eat the berries from the tree. The berries were however too bitter to eat. He built a fire, roasted the beans, and placed them into boiling water. The beans were still too hard to eat. The Shaykh then drank the boiled water. He recovered his strength and was sustained for days. He was eventually invited to return to al-Mukhaa.

AL-MUKHAA & THE SHAAZALI ORDER Al-Mukhaa is thus called, "The home of Coffee," where coffee began to be cultivated and made into a beverage. The word, "al-Mukhaa" has been anglicized as, "mocha" referring to the city, coffee

and a colour. "Coffee" comes from the Arabic, "Qahwah."

Members of Shaazali Sufi order consumed coffee to sustain their energy and concentration during their devotions. As the ash-Shaykh Abul-Hasan ash-Shaazali insisted that one should have a profession before joining the order, it was soon real-ised that coffee could be used for energy in "secular" work as well. Through the Shaazali order consumption of coffee spread throughout the lands of Islam about 600 years ago.

By 1616 the coffee trade was so lively that a Dutch visitor to al-Mukhaa wrote that he saw, "…a caravan of a thousand camels packed with coffee." The drink was so popular that the demand forced rapid increases in the price of coffee. This made the farmers and traders of coffee very wealthy. Many mansions and palaces were constructed in this region in the 1700's.

Yemeni beans have a unique flavour because of the height of the gardens - 3000 meters above sea level. The thin atmosphere and the strong sunlight result in an irresistible flavour when the beans are roasted. Yemen's coffee is considered the world's best.

RELIGIOUS CONTROVERSIES & FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS In 1453 the Turks brought coffee to Istanbul. There the world's first coffee-shop, Kiva Han, was established in 1475. Turkish law allowed a woman to divorce her husband if he failed to provide her with her daily quota of coffee. In the following century the Mufti of Istanbul banned coffee. Coffee-houses were filled during times of Salaah and coffee was considered a drug. Whoever was apprehended drinking coffee a second time was tied in a leather bag and drowned in the Bosporus River. After a century the controversy died down.

When coffee reached Rome the priests condemned it and forbade drinking it. They argued that coffee was the drink of the devil. Satan had invented the drink for

the "Moslem infidels" as a substitute for the wine they were forbidden to drink. Since wine in the Western Christian world was sanctified by Christ and used in Holy Communion, coffee must then be of the Anti-Christ. If a Christian drank this devil brew they would risk eternal damnation.

In 1600 Pope Clement VIII settled the dispute. He asked that the brew be brought before him. Intrigued by its powerful aroma, he sipped the coffee. It was delicious. The Pope blessed the

coffee, and baptized it on the spot. He rea-soned that banishing this drink from the

Christian world would be a larger sin. With the Pope's blessing, imports of coffee to Italy and the Western world came flooding in. In 1645 the first coffeehouse in Italy was opened, 170

years after the first Muslim coffeehouse. By 1668 coffee replaced beer as New York's City's favourite breakfast drink. The Boston Tea Party in 1773 develops a culture of patriotic duty for Ameri-cans to drink coffee.

In 1675 the Turkish Army besieged Vienna. Franz Georg Kolschitzky, a Viennese who had lived in Turkey, slipped through the Turkish lines to lead relief forces to the city. The Turks left behind sacks which the Austrians thought to be "dry black fodder." Kolschitzky recognized it as coffee. He claimed it as his reward and opened central Europe's first coffeehouse. He also established the habit of refining the brew by filtering out the grounds, sweetening it, and adding a dash of milk. In 1690 the Dutch smuggled a coffee plant out of al-Mukhaa. Coffee now began to be produced outside of Yemen as well.

In 1901 the Japanese-American chemist Satori Kato of Chicago invented the first soluble "instant" coffee.

Another interesting coffee trivia is that in 2001 Brazil issued a stamp which smelled of coffee. The smell was expected to last five years!

1. McDonald’s are alleged to be coating their French fries with a certain Haraam ingredient to ensure a crunchy texture. Name the ingredient.

2. A certain ingredient in Beacon Liqourice Allsorts and Marshmallows makes them unsuitable for Muslim consumption. Name the ingredient.

3. Name three discrepancies found in Brazilian abattoirs and list some countries where Brazilian meat and poultry is exported to.

4. One of the varieties of Beacon St Chocolat contains a certain Haraam ingredient. Name this St Chocolat variant together with the Haraam in-gredient it contains. Which E-number is this ingredient represented by?

5. Where is the Savanna Beef main abattoir located?

6. ZAMHA certifies a certain locally-made maize drink. Name the drink.

7. Which place is known as “the home of Coffee” and which Arabic word does the word “coffee” come from?

8. Who is the manufacturer of Classic Ice Creams?

9. Name the local cheeses certified Halaal by ZAMHA.

10. Which Fast Food outlet is certified Halaal by ZAMHA at Crossroads Shopping Mall?

HOW TO ENTER: Answer questions 1 - 10 and either e-mail, post or hand deliver them to the ZAMHA offices. The entrant’s full name, telephone number, and physical address must accompany each entry.

Note: Entry is absolutely FREE. Only one entry will be accepted per individual. One winner will be drawn from all correct entries.

Prize: A GIFT HAMPER SPONSORED BY

SAVANNA BEEF

Competition Closing Date: 31st March 2008

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 PAGE 7

“Whoever believes in Allah and His Rasûl , he should not partake from a table upon which wine is served.” (Tirmizi)

HALAAL GAZETTE

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglo-bin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twick-enham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to over-come the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on ba-nanas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a ba-nana skin. Many people find it amaz-ingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vita-mins that help calm the nervous sys-tem.

Overweight and at work: Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorg-ing on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disor-ders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutral-izes over-acidity and reduces irrita-tion by coating the lining of the stom-ach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expec-tant mothers. In Thailand, for exam-ple, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers be-cause they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover

from the effects of nicotine with-drawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps nor-malize the heart-beat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our po-tassium levels. These can be rebal-anced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medi-cine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alter-natives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural rem-edy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and miner-als. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say:

"A banana a day, keeps the doctor away!"

( Continued from Pg 1)

⌦Wonka Nerds grape & strawberry flavor sweets Status: Haraam

⌦Cal-C-Vita Immune Booster Vitamin Status: Haraam

⌦Apple Cider Vinegar with G r a p e f r u i t extract Cap-sule Status: Haraam

⌦Rennie Pep-permint Status: Haraam

⌦Rennie Spearmint Status: Haraam

⌦Inside Story Truffle Balls Status: Haraam

⌦Endearmints Status: Haraam

⌦Centrum tablets Status: Haraam

⌦Flex & Go 2-1 Shampoo / Conditioner Status: Haraam

⌦Junglevites Drops Status: Haraam

⌦Royal Jelly Status:Haraam

⌦M a c l e a n s T o o t h p a s t e (entire range)

Status: Haraam

⌦Beacon Liqourice Allsorts

Status: Haraam

⌦S26 Materna Status: Haraam

⌦Rascals Chappies Status: Haraam

⌦Sanatogen Multivitamin Status: Haraam

In a serious world of Halaal we take this moment to make you smile. It's therapeutic, so pass it on:

6 OR 4 PIECES While working at a pizza store I observed a man ordering a small pizza to go. He appeared to be alone and the cook asked him if he would like it cut into 4 pieces or 6. He thought about it for some time before responding...

"Just cut it into 4 pieces; I don't think I'm hungry enough to eat 6 pieces.”

****************

PSYCHOLOGY “What’s the usual tip?” the man suddenly asked Ahmed, a college student delivering his pizza. "Well,” Ahmed replied, “this is my first delivery, but the other delivery guys said that I would be lucky if I could get two thousand Kwacha out of you.” “Is that so?” said the man. “In that case here’s twenty thousand Kwacha.” “Thanks, I will put it towards my text books,” said Ahmed. “By the way, what are you studying?” asked the man. Ahmed replied, “Applied Psychology.”

Zambian Halaal Certifiers :38146 :220107 :zamha@zamnet.zm Lusaka Zambia

Note(1):Only the above establishments have been certified Halaal by the Zambian Halaal Certifiers. We do not guarantee the Halaal status of any other outlet or abattoir. Note(2):We advise the Muslim community to only buy directly from the above establishments for fear of contamination in the event of tearing of packaging, etc. In terms of the Shari'ah, all meat/ meat products must be purchased through either Muslim outlets or through such Halaal outlets, which are supervised by Muslims. Non-Muslim Supermarkets/ Major Shopping outlets unfortunately do not have any such authorised Muslim supervisory control. Therefore, Muslims should not purchase their meat/ meat products from such avenues.Note(3):Please be reminded that whilst every effort is made to ensure that Halaal certificates are issued after thorough investigations and inspections, the onus still remains on each and everyone of us to be vigilant at all times. Halaal certifications do not excuse us from the responsibility to exercise our own judgment and discretion.Note(4):Become our eyes and ears. If you notice any discrepancies at any of ZAMHA’s certified outlets contact ZAMHA immediately. Note(5):Remember that you, the Muslim consumer, are our main concern. Therefore, your comments, criticisms and suggestions are welcome.

HALAAL GAZETTE VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 PAGE 8

BEEF ABATTOIRS ALL HALAAL ABATTOIR

(At Masbro Farms)

SAVANNA BEEF ABATTOIR (Great East Rd.)

ZAM ZAM ABATTOIR

(Senanga)

KASAK’S ABATTOIR & BUTCHERY (Chipata)

STAR ABATTOIR (Mongu)

DAYOW BEEF ABATTOIR (Kalomo)

BEEF SUPPLIERS

DAYOW BEEF

A.K. MEAT SUPPLIES

TAWAKAL HALAAL BEEF

POULTRY ABATTOIR

VERINO AGRI-INDUSTRIES LTD (Country Choice Chickens)

GREENVELD & SUNNYSIDE FARMS

(Chipata)

CHUBBY CHICKS POULTRY ABAT-TOIR (G. East Rd)

EUREKA CHICKENS LTD

(Mumbwa Rd)

BUTCHERIES MASBRO FARMS BUTCHERY

(Kabwata)

KABWATA CASH & CARRY

(BUTCHERY only)

R & M MEAT PRODUCTS

(Mumbwa Rd.)

ZAM ZAM HALAAL BUTCHERY

(Freedom Way)

STAR HALAAL BUTCHERY (Lumumba Rd. & Chilulu)

LUS. CENTRAL MEAT BUTCHERY

(Lumumba Rd & Kamwala)

SAVANNA BEEF (Kalambo Outet)

ALL HALAAL MEAT BAZAAR

(Next to Castle S. Center)

QURBAAN HALAAL MEATS

(Cha Cha Cha Rd. South End)

NAMCHICK

(Cairo Rd., former Eureka Outlet)

VERINO CHICKENS OUTLET

(Freedom Way)

TAKE AWAYS / RESTAURENTS /

BAKERIES STEERS/DEBONAIRS PIZZA

(MANDA HILL ONLY)

FOOD FAYRE (Cairo Rd & Arcades)

L.A. FAST FOODS &

L.A. RANCH (Cairo Rd & Longacres)

YUM YUM TAKE AWAY (Kamwala)

MR BEES FOOD 2 GO (Cairo Rd. & Crossroads)

CURRY IN A HURRY (Manda Hill)

AL BAIK FAST FOODS (Makeni)

THE COURTYARD (Restaurant & Health Bar)

BUTTERFIELD BAKERY (Manda Hill)

DOWNTOWN PARK RESTAURANT (Behind Downtown Shopping Center)

MILKY LANE (Manda Hill)

DEVINE FOODS

(Kitwe)

PRODUCTS ZAHREEN FARMS

All Products (Classic Ice Creams)

DAIRY KING PASTEURISED MILK, DRINKING YOGHURTS, CHOCO-

LATE MILK & LACTO.

PARMALAT ZAMBIA LTD All Yogurts, Lacto, Drinking Yogurt, Cabana, Butter,

Ghee

ZAMBIA SUGAR Brown, VHP, Household, Bottler Grade, Refined, Icing,

Castor, & Rich Dark Sugar

SUPER CONFECTIONERS BEEF, CHICKEN, & VEGETABLE SAMOOSAS & SPRING

ROLLS

KAPOSHI DAIRY ALL CHEESES

MAPLEHURST CHEESE ALL CHEESES, YOGURT, BUTTER, LACTO

TRADE KINGS SUPER MAHEU (All Variants)

CHEF’S DELIGHT READY ROLLED PUFF PASTRY, CHICKEN & BEEF PIES

AND SAMOOSAS

Tried and tested recipes from chefs, gourmet connoisseurs, contributors and also from kitchens of our certified plants for

your culinary pleasure. Make up your own collection of winning recipes.

Romany Creams Ingredients: 250g butter ½ cup oil 1 cup castor sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp baking powder

Method: Cream butter, sugar, and oil till light and fluffy. Add the rest of the ingredients. Roll and scrape with a fork and cut into ovals or circles and bake. When cool, paste together with cooking chocolate.

Bounty Ingredients: 6 cups coconut 2 tab. Spoons liquid glucose syrup 1 large tin condensed milk

Method: Blend syrup and condensed milk in a blender and mix with coconut. Mould into mini ovals and refrigerate for half and hour. Then dip in chocolate and place on waxed paper to set.

Do you have a recipe to share with the readers? Send in your favourite recipe to zamha@zamnet.zm and who knows, you could be our “guest chef” for a future edition of the Halaal Gazette.

1 cup coconut ½ cup cocoa ½ tsp. red food colour (optional) 3 ½ cups flour or a bit more

Please note that ONLY Steers/ Debonairs MANDA HILL is cer-tified Halaal by ZAMHA.

ZAMHA does not certify any other Steers/Debonairs outlet.

Alhamdulillah, ZAMHA operations have increased substantially over the past couple of years, with abattoirs certified as far afield as Senanga and Kalomo. Whilst we at ZAMHA try our utmost to ensure that stringent certification criteria are implemented, by placing Halaal supervisors at critical areas and carrying out surprise inspec-tions of certified establishments, the onus still remains on each and everyone of us to be vigilant at all times. Halaal certifications do not excuse us from the responsibility to exercise our own judgment and discretion. Therefore, an urgent appeal is made to each and every Muslim out there: “Become our eyes and ears. If you notice any discrepancies at any of ZAMHA’s certified outlets contact the ZAMHA helpline immediately!”

Jazakumullah