In a significant stride towards sustainable food practices, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has declared that cultivated meat is generally halal, and Muslims are allowed to consume it, provided certain conditions are met. The fatwa, released on February 3, states that cultivated meat is deemed halal if the cells originate from animals sanctioned for consumption in Islam and if there is no contamination with non-halal elements during production.

In Islamic tradition, fatwas serve as authoritative directives intended to provide guidance to the Muslim community regarding different facets of religious practice. These rulings represent formal interpretations of Islamic jurisprudence conducted by a qualified religious scholar, commonly referred to as a mufti.

Cultivated meat is produced by cultivating animal cells directly, presenting an alternative to conventionally farmed meat. MUIS’ decision comes in response to queries regarding the permissibility of cultivated meat following its approval for sale by the Singapore Food Agency in 2020.

The Fatwa Committee, supported by the Office of the Mufti, conducted comprehensive research and engaged with various stakeholders, including government agencies and industry experts, to arrive at this religious guidance. It emphasizes the Islamic principles of preserving human life and safeguarding the environment, aligning with the belief that beneficial practices are permissible unless proven otherwise.

The announcement has garnered positive responses from Singapore’s Muslim community, with individuals welcoming the additional halal food option while expressing concerns about ethical considerations in the production process. Notably, MUIS plans to collaborate with relevant authorities to establish guidelines for the halal certification of cultivated meat, ensuring adherence to stringent halal standards.

This decision underscores Singapore’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning it as a global leader in promoting ethical and environmentally friendly food choices. As technological advancements continue to reshape our food landscape, MUIS’ proactive stance reflects the evolving nature of fatwa research in addressing contemporary issues and societal needs.

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