Halal versus non-halal meat has recently become a bone of contention, the former being the proscribed way in Islam and Judaism of slaughtering animals for food. Unfortunately, of late, those recommending or exporting halal meat are portrayed as those promoting Islam by certain extremist groups.
The principal of an educational institution in Dehra Dun has recently been such a target for ordering halal meat for their canteen. The food export authority of India (APEDA) has been brow-beaten to drop the halal labeling of meat by such groups, thus leaving no choice for consumers abroad. However, the practice of halal may go beyond religious beliefs.
It is considered by many to be a healthy way of eating meat since it is not red meat as would result from non-halal slaughtering methods. We should not evaluate and condemn all religious practices based only on our hatred of other beliefs.
