Fatwa ID: 815
Title: Is using gelatin in foods & beverages permissible or forbidden in Shari’ah?
Category: Issues of Muslim Minorities
Scholar: Dr. Muhammad Muwaffak Al Ghaylany
Date: 10/02/2005
Question

In the name of Allah the Beneficent the Merciful

Peace, blessings and mercy of Allah be upon you.

We live in north eastern America, and there are some products that are made of gelatin, like candy and beverages, and are not marked with which kind of gelatin is processed in them? What is the Shari`ah`s ruling on such foods? Jazakum Allahu Khairan.

Answer

In the name of Allah the Beneficent the Merciful

Praise be to Allah, prayers and peace be upon His kind Messenger.

Normally, the ingredients of food are clearly shown on packets that are sold to customers, and if it is difficult to find it, the manger of the store could be asked, and if he in turn does not have an answer, the processing company could be asked, especially if such product is oftenly used. Generally speaking, Muslims should be careful in matters that directly touch their faith, especially foods and beverages; for the Prophet, prayers and peace of Allah be upon him, said: "Make sure your food is good, then your Du`aa be answered".