The Muslim-oriented global tourist industry is huge, forecast to reach $200bn – and South Africa has eagerly tapped into that. There is an accommodating and varied halaal industry in South Africa directed to catering for the 2% Muslim population of the country and the many tourists who visit. For those exclusively eating halaal approved produce, the process often means that what you’re consuming has already been well produced before arriving in the supermarket or store; you can generally be happy that what you eat is healthy, well reared and positive for you.

There are plenty of other aspects to your diet and life that can be given the healthy makeover, however. From halaal coffee shops and spots to delectable cake and macaron shops, there are many places that are delivering quality halaal produce. Unfortunately though, it can be more puzzling to cut through the chaff in corner shops and stores. Fortunately, some of the best organic produce and healthy food is already halaal.

Haircare

The cosmetics industry is often fraught with contradictions and problems for those looking to develop natural, cruelty-free and halaal habits. This is especially true with shampoos and conditioners, which contain sulfates and parabens, which are harmful in the longrun but present in many products. With cheap production lines and unclear sources, it can also be hard to mark out if the product is halaal. To be clear on your haircare and lead an environmentally friendly habit, look out for sulfate free shampoo products and check for the absence of -bens, too.

When it comes to the rest of your body, follow the same routines and laws. Stay away from health affecting hydrocarbons, like parabens, and harmful drying chemicals like sulfates. Your skin will thank you.

Vegetables

You would think that the fruit and vegetables you consume are already organic and healthy. However, many can be unwittingly sprayed with pesticides and other harmful toxins, or farmed in environments that are damaging for the local ecosystem and generate further issues down the line. There is also the issue of genetically modified organic produce, where the seeds of your food have been spliced and chopped.

To be sure, you can always buy locally, and there are plenty of good farms who can demonstrate good behaviour. As for GMOs, not all are non-organic and have followed good routines. Furthermore, it was confirmed in 2010 that GMOs can be halaal, with the correct procedures.

That’s just a taster of what guidelines you can follow to lead an organic-friendly and halaal compatible lifestyle. There are far more, of course, and the good news is that the world as a whole have got their heads pointing the right way and are seeking to improve the quality of food to make sure it’s fit for anyone to eat.

 

Written by Contributer: Jane Sandwood