Meatco, the country’s biggest meat processing and marketing entity, has reaffirmed its continued commitment to upholding the highest standards of Halaal certification and integrity across all its operations, which serves as a core strategic business imperative.

The entity operates fully Halaal-certified abattoirs that adhere to stringent regulatory and religious requirements, which are anchored on strict adherence to Islamic dietary laws that all meat and food products processed at their facilities are permissible [Halaal] under Islamic law.

“At Meatco, Halaal compliance is not merely a procedural requirement but a strategic business imperative. Our customers and clients operate in highly competitive markets, where Halaal-certified meat provides a distinct advantage. Therefore, our Halaal processes are monitored daily to ensure unwavering compliance with all regulatory and religious guidelines. This is overseen by our highly competent Halaal Inspector Uthmaan van Niel,” said Meatco’s corporate communications officer Undamuje Hambira.

When handling Halaal slaughtering processes, it is important that animals are slaughtered by a Muslim, using a sharp knife, ensuring the animal is healthy and completely bled out. 

The slaughterer invokes the name of Allah before performing the cut – as required under Islamic law.

Van Niel is an expert in Halaal inspection and auditing for food plants, abattoirs and cold storage facilities. 

His work ensures that Meatco remains aligned with international best practices in Halaal compliance.

To further strengthen compliance, Meatco undergoes rigorous annual audits by the Muslim Judicial Council Halaal Trust and the South African National Halaal Authority (SANHA).

“These independent audits evaluate our entire production process – from animal welfare upon offloading to the point of slaughter, all in accordance with strict Halaal regulations. Audits also assess the effectiveness of our Halaal slaughterers, the stunning process (ensuring no pain), proper bleeding and the handling and storage of meat products,” he said.

Storage and transportation

Halaal-certified products must be stored and transported separately from non-Halaal items to prevent cross-contamination. 

Meatco strictly processes Halaal products, ensuring full compliance at every stage of the process.

All Halaal products must be free from haram (forbidden) substances, such as pork, alcohol and any ingredients deemed impermissible under Islamic law. 

Animals must also be handled humanely throughout the process. 

Hambira said Meatco remains fully committed to upholding globally recognised welfare standards, which ensures minimal stress and suffering of animals.

“Meatco takes pride in its long-standing reputation for excellence in Halaal-slaughter processes. Our consistent success in meeting and exceeding audit requirements reflects our dedication to maintaining one of the most respected certifications in the global meat industry. This commitment reinforces our promise to deliver high-quality, ethically produced and naturally prepared meat products to our valued clients,” underscored Hambira. 

– ohembapu@nepc.com.na