Halal Rising: Celebrating the UK’s Embrace of Halal Cuisine with a Stadium Event Interestingly, non-Muslims are also increasingly seeking out halal options, contributing to the rapid growth of Muslim-owned food chains in the UK.
What is Halal?
Halal, meaning “permissible” in Arabic, refers to foods allowed under Islamic law. Prohibited items include alcohol and pork. For meat to be certified halal, animals must be healthy at slaughter, killed by hand, and completely drained of blood.
Growing Muslim Population
The UK’s Muslim population has grown by over a million in the past decade, with 2021 census data showing 6.5% of the population is Muslim (nearly 3.9 million people). This growth is paralleled by the expansion of Muslim-owned food businesses.
Increasing Acceptance
Even in Westminster, halal and kosher food options have only been available since 2021. While some stigma persists, it is decreasing. Animal rights concerns about halal and kosher practices exist, but the RSPCA notes that 95% of halal-slaughtered animals in the UK are stunned first.
Muslim Consumption Trends
Muslims in the UK spend more on meat compared to non-Muslims, averaging £30 a week versus £12. A report by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) found that Muslims account for 20% of lamb consumption in England, with 60% of halal consumers eating lamb weekly, compared to just 6% of the general population.
Economic Impact
Research from the AHDB, in collaboration with the University of Huddersfield, revealed that the halal meat and poultry sector contributes approximately £1.7 billion to the UK economy. If trends continue, this could rise to nearly £2 billion by 2028.
Halal Market Growth
The Halal Market London offers over 20,000 products and is set to attract halal food shoppers. The Muslim Food Festival features international vendors and chefs showcasing diverse halal cuisines. According to the Pew Foundation, the UK’s Muslim population will grow by 4% annually, reaching 5.6 million by 2030, significantly increasing demand for halal products.
Business Opportunities
The rising Muslim population presents numerous opportunities in the halal food sector. The UK halal food market, worth $4.5 billion, is expected to grow by 5% annually. Leading supermarkets are expanding their halal product ranges, meeting the growing demand from the Muslim community.
For more information and to explore the diverse offerings of the halal food market, visit the World Halal Food Festival and experience the vibrant, inclusive culinary landscape of halal cuisine in the UK.
