Yes, some meat is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam.
What Makes Meat Haram?
Several factors determine whether meat is halal (permitted) or haram:
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The animal itself: Certain animals are inherently haram, regardless of how they are slaughtered. These include pork, carnivorous animals (like lions and dogs), and animals considered unclean according to Islamic law. [Reference: Islamic dietary laws - Wikipedia, What is considered haram meat? - Quora]
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Method of slaughter: Even if the animal is permissible, the method of slaughter is crucial. The animal must be slaughtered in a specific way, often referred to as dhabiha, which involves a swift cut to the jugular vein while invoking the name of God. If the animal is treated poorly or tortured before or during slaughter, the meat becomes haram. [Reference: If the animal is treated poorly or tortured while being slaughtered, the meat is haram. , Islamic dietary laws - Wikipedia, What's the Difference Between Halal and Haram Meat & Food?]
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Source of the meat: It's important to know the source of the meat to ensure the animal was slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines. In some countries, meat sold in stores might be halal if it is known to be slaughtered according to Christian or Jewish practices. [Reference: It is halal to eat the meat sold in stores in non-Muslim countries if it is known that it was slaughtered by Christians and Jews.]
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Carrion or dead animals: Meat from animals that died of natural causes, illness, or injury is considered haram. [Reference: Forbidden food substances include ... animals that died due to illness, injury, ... ]
Examples of Haram Meat:
- Pork and pork products
- Meat from carnivorous animals
- Animals that died before being slaughtered
- Improperly slaughtered meat
Finding Halal Meat:
Look for halal certification on meat products. Many Muslim butchers and restaurants specialize in preparing halal meat. [Reference: Halal meat is slaughtered by Muslim butchers.] In areas with significant Muslim populations, finding halal meat is usually straightforward. In other regions, verifying the method of slaughter may require more diligence. [Reference: Is eating meat in the West/USA halal?]
