How to conduct an Halal Audit

Conducting an audit for a company to ensure compliance with Halal regulations involves a systematic review of processes, ingredients, and practices to ensure they align with Islamic dietary laws.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how a Halal audit for a company is done:

1. Understand Halal Requirements

Before conducting the audit, familiarize yourself with the Halal regulations and standards applicable to the company's industry. Key principles include:

• Permissible Ingredients: All ingredients must be Halal-certified and free from Haram (forbidden) substances such as pork, alcohol, and certain animal by-products.
• Processing Standards: Equipment and facilities must be free from contamination with non-Halal substances.
• Storage and Transportation: Halal products must be stored and transported separately from non-Halal items.
• Documentation: Proper records must be maintained to trace the Halal status of ingredients and processes.

2. Assemble an Audit Team

• Include individuals with expertise in Halal regulations, food science, and auditing.
• Ensure the team is trained in Halal compliance and understands the specific requirements of the company's industry.

3. Pre-Audit Preparation

• Review Documentation: Request and review the company’s Halal policy, ingredient lists, supplier certificates, and processing procedures.
• Develop an Audit Checklist: Create a checklist based on Halal standards, covering areas such as sourcing, production, storage, and labeling.
• Schedule the Audit: Coordinate with the company to schedule the audit at a time that minimizes disruption to operations.

4. On-Site Audit

Conduct a thorough inspection of the company’s facilities and processes. Key areas to focus on include:

a. Sourcing and Ingredients

• Verify that all raw materials and ingredients are Halal-certified.
• Check supplier certificates and ensure they are from recognized Halal certification bodies.
• Ensure there are no Haram or questionable ingredients in the supply chain.

b. Production Process

• Inspect the production line to ensure there is no cross-contamination with non-Halal products.
• Verify that equipment is cleaned according to Halal standards before processing Halal products.
• Check for the use of any Haram substances (e.g., alcohol-based cleaning agents).

c. Storage and Transportation

• Ensure Halal products are stored separately from non-Halal items.
• Verify that transportation vehicles are dedicated to Halal products or properly cleaned before use.

d. Labeling and Packaging

• Check that Halal certification logos are displayed correctly on packaging.
• Ensure labels accurately reflect the ingredients and Halal status of the product.

e. Documentation and Traceability

• Review records to ensure traceability of all ingredients and processes.
• Verify that the company maintains up-to-date Halal certificates and compliance records.

5. Interview Staff

• Speak with employees involved in sourcing, production, and quality control to assess their understanding of Halal requirements.
• Identify any gaps in knowledge or training that need to be addressed.

6. Post-Audit Activities

• Prepare an Audit Report: Document findings, including non-compliance issues and areas for improvement.
• Provide Recommendations: Offer actionable steps to address any deficiencies and improve compliance.
• Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up audit if necessary to ensure corrective actions have been implemented.

7. Certification

If the company meets all Halal requirements, recommend them for Halal certification issued by a Halal certification body with the relevant Recognitions and Accreditations, e.g. Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM) Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Produk Halal (BPJPH) . Ensure the certification is renewed yearly to maintain compliance.

8. Continuous Improvement

• Encourage the company to establish a Halal compliance team to monitor ongoing adherence to standards.
• Recommend regular internal audits and staff training to maintain high standards of Halal compliance.

Key Considerations

• Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of Islamic practices and principles throughout the audit process.
• Legal Requirements: Ensure the audit aligns with local and international Halal regulations.
• Third-Party Certification Halal Certification Services Halal Certification Services (EU) GmbH : Engage a reputable Halal certification body if the company seeks formal certification.

By following these steps, you can conduct a comprehensive Halal audit that ensures the company’s products and processes comply with Islamic dietary laws.