Why Consider Halal Certification in Mexico?

3. Diversifying Revenue Streams:

Why AHF?

Central & South America Market Overview

The Central and South American markets are rapidly evolving, and halal certification is becoming a key factor for manufacturers aiming to expand their reach both locally and globally.

Here’s why the halal market is gaining momentum in this region:

1. Growing Muslim Population and Consumer Base:

While traditionally non-Muslim, Central and South America are seeing a gradual rise in Muslim populations due to immigration, especially in countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. This emerging demographic is creating a demand for halal-certified products that meet their dietary and lifestyle needs.

2. Increasing Trade Agreements and Economic Integration:

The region’s participation in trade agreements like Mercosur, the Pacific Alliance, and free trade deals with countries in the Middle East and Asia facilitates easier market access for halal-certified goods. This economic integration makes it simpler for businesses to expand their footprint and tap into new consumer bases.

3. Opportunities for Export Growth:

Central and South America are rich in agricultural products, including beef, poultry, coffee, and fresh produce. Halal certification of these products significantly boosts their export potential, allowing producers to enter highly regulated markets that prioritize halal standards.

4. Supportive Government Initiatives and Private Sector Interest:

Governments in the region, particularly in Brazil and Argentina, are actively promoting halal certification as a means to enhance exports. Private companies, especially in the food and beverage sector, are increasingly recognizing the benefits of being halal-certified, aligning with global standards to improve their competitiveness.

Certificación Halal Requisitos | Halal Certification Requirements in Mexico

The certification process is overseen by recognized halal certification bodies, like the American Halal Foundation (AHF). Here are the key requirements for acquiring halal certification in Mexico:

1. Compliance with Halal Standards:

Your products must comply with established halal standards, such as those outlined by the World Halal Food Council. This includes ensuring that all ingredients, processing methods, and handling procedures meet halal requirements.

2. Proper Slaughtering Practices (for Meat Products):

For meat and poultry products, halal certification requires that animals are slaughtered in accordance with Islamic rites, which include specific guidelines on slaughter method and cleanliness. Only trained personnel certified in halal slaughtering methods are allowed to perform this task, and the entire process must be supervised and documented.

3. Segregation of Halal and Non-Halal Products:

There must be clear segregation between halal and non-halal products throughout the supply chain. This applies to storage, transportation, production lines, and even staff handling different types of products.

4. Sanitation and Hygiene Standards:

The manufacturing facility must meet strict hygiene and sanitation standards. This includes using approved cleaning agents, ensuring equipment is thoroughly cleaned and free from any non-halal residues, and maintaining overall cleanliness of the production environment.

5. Halal Assurance System Implementation:

Companies are required to implement a Halal Assurance System (HAS), which outlines the procedures and controls to maintain halal integrity throughout the entire production process. This system includes internal audits, staff training on halal requirements, and ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance.

3- Step Halal Certification Process at AHF

AHF’s International Accreditations and Recognitions