19 imported food items deemed 'Haram'

Knorr Chicken Soup, Skittles, Jell-O, Pop Tarts among other termed haram and may not be sold in the country

A government official presented on Monday a list of 19 imported items containing ‘Haram’ ingredients being sold in the country to a National Assembly committee.

Science and Technology Additional Secretary Muhammad Ejaz Mian brought forward the recommendation of the Pakistan Halal Authority, which regulates trade, imports and exports to prevent Haram products from being sold in the country.

The official upheld the ministry has no authority to prevent the sale of these items.

Here is a list of the 19 items termed ‘Haram’:

1) Three brands of Skittles (UK)

2) Bubblicious (UK)

3) Chupa Bubble (Holland)

4) Pascual Yogikids (Spain)

5) Knorr Chicken Soup (France)

6) Pasta Chicken Broccoli (USA)

7) Slima Soup (UK)

8) Picnic Chicken (USA)

9) Cup A Soup (UK)

10) Tulip Chicken (Denmark)

11) Jell-O (US)

12) Rice Chicken Broccoli (USA)

13) Pasta Creamy Chicken (US)

14) Heinz Dinner Chicken (England)

15) Pop Tarts (USA)

16) Two brands of Chicken Tonight (Holland)

The items have been termed ‘Haram’ as they contain wines, gelatin and E120 (animal-based food colour) ingredients. While other items that may contain chicken which allegedly has not been slaughtered as per Islamic regulations have added to this list because of their ‘doubtful’ ingredients. Some other items which could not be ascertained as Halal or Haram have also been placed on the list.

A draft of the bill seeking a mandate to prevent the sale of the food items has also been submitted to the cabinet and Council of Common Interests for approval. Once accepted, the items will not be sold in the country.