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Thursday 11 July 2013

Halal Rations Are Not Just For Muslims

By Leanna Freeman


Halal rations are multipurpose food portions that can be used by a variety of people. They're mainly utilized by the military, but it's not unheard of for campers, hikers and backpackers to take some with them when going on long journeys. They have also been used during humanitarian crises, to provide food for those with special dietary needs.

The major thing to note is that these foods, if they have been made to the correct standards, will contain no alcohol and will have been made with kitchen equipment that is thoroughly clean and has no trace of anything non-Halal. Of course, the meat in these meals has to have been slaughtered in the appropriate way too.

The mistake some make is confusing the special diet of a Muslim with that of Kosher food, which is Jewish. Although Kosher food does not usually include pork, the Jewish diet has things in it that are not permitted in the Halal diet, such as alcohol and gelatin. Additionally, the food is prepared differently . For instance, Kosher meat is not butchered in the same way as Halal and because of this fact alone it prohibited from being consumed.

The military have embraced the use of rations, which are sometimes known by the term MRE, which is short for Meal Ready to Eat. The name explains exactly what the product is: portions of food that can be eaten on the go straight from the packaging and without any need for heating. It includes a complete meal with side dishes, drink and a snack. Although the meal can be eaten cold, many personnel actually leave them out in the sun to warm up or else just place them on the hot engine of a vehicle for around ten minutes.

Because the portions are fairly light they can be carried around the battlefield with relative ease. It's this aspect that makes them almost ideal for the camper or hiker, as they won't take up a huge amount of space and can be transported long distances on foot.

In the USA and the UK, the army have a lot of experience with special types of food. They serve meals in the dining hall and cater for many different needs, both religious and non-religious. Out in the field is a little different, as the rations have to be sent, therefore a list of every soldier and their requirements is a must.

It should come as no real surprise to learn that these food rations are quite nutritious. And because of how they are packaged they often do not need preservatives, but can last for around 6 months. They have around 1200 calories, normally enough to tide a soldier over until the next meal.

You do not have to be a Muslim to enjoy Halal rations. If you are a backpacker or a camper and are after a lightweight product, one that can be eaten hot or cold, then these may be the thing to choose. But if you are a Muslim, you should be comforted by the knowledge that they are prepared to the high standards that the Islamic religion expects.




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