British Dairy Exporters Eye Halal Certification Ahead of Middle Eastern Trade Show
Halal export requirements for British dairy products have become a focal point ahead of the upcoming Gulfood trade show in Dubai, set for February 17-21. A recent webinar, organized by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), aimed to equip British exporters with essential knowledge about halal certification for markets in the Middle East.
The webinar provided insights into the differing requirements across countries in the region, emphasizing the significance of halal certification even when not mandated by law. According to AHDB, securing halal certification can be crucial, particularly for appealing to certain buyers or in specific contexts.
In particular, the session clarified the nuances of halal dairy production, detailing criteria, the certification process, export potential, and how halal status is regulated. Despite milk being inherently halal, the webinar highlighted that processing methods, handling, and additional ingredients can impact a product's halal status. Additives such as enzymes and flavorings derived from non-halal sources were cited as potential pitfalls.
Tanveer Parkar, senior market access manager at AHDB, expressed the vast potential for British dairy in Asian and Middle Eastern markets. He noted that while halal guidelines can seem complex, understanding them opens pathways to enhanced consumer trust and market compliance, particularly in regions like the GCC, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
As producers prepare to showcase their offerings at Gulfood, AHDB continues to support exporters in making informed decisions around halal certification, which not only fulfills regulatory expectations but also bolsters brand value.
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