New Zealand's new standards seen to open halal markets

The Food Safety Authority (FSA) expects new markets will open to New Zealand meat processors, now that it has issued a national export standard covering halal food.

Most New Zealand meat plants already process sheep meat and beef to meet Islamic halal requirements, but the trade has been disrupted to two of the biggest markets due to standard concerns.

Islam has religious rules for halal food, including specific regulations for how animals should be slaughtered.

FSA export standards deputy director Bill Jolly said the new framework provides quality assurance for international halal markets. He said the agency is using it in negotiations with Malaysia and Indonesia to counter some of their previous concerns.

Jolly added that the FSA will set up an Islamic advisory council to oversee the halal framework.