The Ministry of Religious Affairs has taken decisive action through its Department of Syariah Affairs following consumer complaints about a popular pet food product’s halal status.

Product Investigation and Findings

The Department of Syariah Affairs received consumer complaints regarding Royal Canin’s gastrointestinal cat food product, prompting an official investigation. Upon conducting a thorough inspection, authorities discovered that the product contains pork by-products, which are clearly listed on the product packaging.

In response to these findings, the Department of Syariah Affairs has issued mandatory guidance for all businesses currently selling this product to immediately discontinue its sale. This directive aims to safeguard the welfare and religious observances of the Muslim community within the country.

Broader Industry Reminder

The department has extended its guidance beyond this specific incident, issuing comprehensive reminders to all stakeholders in the retail and distribution chain. Business owners, managers, traders, suppliers, and importers are urged to maintain heightened vigilance when sourcing and selling products to ensure all items offered to the public meet halal standards and remain free from contamination by non-halal substances.

This action demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting Muslim consumers from inadvertently purchasing or using products that conflict with their religious dietary laws, even in the context of pet food products.

Public Reporting and Support

The Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed appreciation for public cooperation in bringing this matter to their attention, highlighting the importance of community participation in maintaining halal standards in the marketplace.

Authorities encourage citizens who discover or wish to report information about the sale of non-halal products to utilize available reporting channels. The public can contact the Halal Food Control Section at the Department of Syariah Affairs through:

• Primary Hotline: 7166222
• District Offices: Any Halal Food Control office located throughout various districts

This incident underscores the ministry’s active monitoring system for halal compliance and demonstrates their commitment to responding swiftly to consumer concerns regarding religious dietary requirements in all product categories, including pet food items that may be handled by Muslim consumers.

Original Article:

Ministry of Religious Affairs, Department of Syariah Affairs. (2025, August 28). Cat food product found to contain non-halal ingredients. Borneo Bulletin. https://borneobulletin.com.bn/cat-food-product-found-to-contain-non-halal-ingredients/