recorder report

LAHORE: With a view to promote ‘Halal’ certification in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry through research, education and advocacy, the University of Health Sciences (UHS) and Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA), have entered into an agreement on Monday.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by UHS VC Prof Javed Akram and IFANCA President Dr Muhammad Munir Chaudhry, here at UHS. IFANCA country head Dr Javaid Aziz Awan, Gambia University’s Vice Chancellor Dr Faqir Mohammad and senior faculty members were present on the occasion besides representatives of Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association and women chamber of commerce.

The agreement between the two organizations envisages exchange of scientific and instructional, research and extension publications, samples and educational materials. It will also provide UHS students an opportunity of training on the process of Halal certification besides developing joint research projects.

Addressing on this occasion, IFANCA President Dr Muhammad Munir Chaudhry said that as the Halal industry continued to grow into the mainstream market across the world, it would experience growth beyond its traditional confines. He added that the objective of his organization was to provide Halal solution to consumers. He added that Halal certification was required to produce acceptable food and consumable products for Halal consumers.

According to the IFANCA President, the growing global market for Halal certified products is estimated at 1.6 billion Muslims as well as others who choose to eat and use Halal products.

UHS VC Prof Javed Akram said that the market for Halal cosmetic products was not limited to the Muslim population in the West but was also attracting non-Muslim consumers. “Halal beauty products symbolize safety, cleanliness, hygiene, and animal byproduct-free products. It also stresses upon cleanliness during manufacturing, packaging and storage.

This is driving its demand in a number of non-Muslim countries, he added.