At its 22nd International Halal Food Conference in Chicago, IFANCA gathered regulators, scientists, scholars, and industry leaders from more than ten countries. Under the theme “Navigating Change Together: Connecting the Global Halal Community,” the event emphasized halal not just as dietary practice, but as a framework that combines faith with justice, transparency, and cooperation.

Halal as a Force for Justice and Sustainability

Speakers including Shaykh Hamza Yusuf connected prophetic ethics with modern environmental and food system challenges. He emphasized values like fair trade, animal welfare, and transparency—rooting the halal economy in dignity and shared humanity rather than just certification.

Focus on Certification, Standards, and Market Alignment

Technical sessions addressed halal certification integrity, global regulatory harmonization, laboratory innovation, and ingredient sourcing. Speakers represented major halal regulatory bodies such as Indonesia’s BPJPH, Malaysia’s JAKIM, and Saudi Arabia’s SFDA, reinforcing the need for science-driven global alignment.

Recognizing Leaders in Halal Innovation

The conference banquet celebrated organizations leading halal-certified innovation. Awards honored companies across categories like dairy, flavors, nutritional ingredients, and retail—highlighting the expanding role of halal in mainstream markets.

Advancing Food Justice Beyond Certification

IFANCA’s work extends to policy advocacy, such as its role in the US Faith by Plate Act, which ensures halal access in institutional meals. Their efforts focus on equitable nutrition, food security, and including diverse communities in public food systems without compromising religious dignity or practical access.

Original Article:

Salaam Gateway. (2025, July 31). Feeding the future: How IFANCA’s Halal Food Conference is shaping a more ethical, inclusive, and sustainable global food system. https://salaamgateway.com/story/feeding-the-future-how-ifancas-halal-food-conference-is-shaping-a-more-ethical-inclusive-and-sustain