Complete Guide to Halal Food in the USA (2025 Update)

If you’re wondering how to confidently Complete Guide to Halal Food in the USA (2025 Update)identify halal food in the United States — what it means, where to find it, which brands are trustworthy, and even how it compares to kosher or regular food — then this complete guide is exactly what you need. As a Muslim living in the USA, I’ve had my fair share of confusion when it came to halal food labeling. In this 2025 update, I’ll walk you through what I’ve learned, including verified links and certified organizations that can help.

1. What Does Halal Food Mean?

Halal food refers to any food that is permissible under Islamic law (Sharia). It must be free from any prohibited (haram) substances such as pork, alcohol, and improperly slaughtered animals. Meat must be zabiha, which means it’s slaughtered with the name of Allah, and processed in a specific way. For a deeper explanation, you can read this overview on Islamicity.org.

2. Where Can You Find Halal Food in the USA?

Halal food is now widely available thanks to growing demand. Here’s where you can find it:

• Grocery Stores: Major chains like Whole Foods, Walmart, and Costco offer halal-certified meat and products.
• Online & Delivery: Use apps like Zabihah and HalalTrip to locate nearby halal restaurants and groceries.
• Muslim Communities: Cities with large Muslim populations (like Dearborn, Chicago, or Houston) have entire districts filled with halal food vendors.

3. Halal Status of Major Brands and Chain Restaurants in the USA

Let’s break down where big food chains and brands stand in 2025:

• Subway: Some locations offer halal-certified meat, especially in areas with large Muslim populations. Verify before ordering.
• McDonald’s & Burger King: No consistent halal menu nationwide, but some regions like Michigan have tested options.
• Chipotle & Panera: While not halal-certified, vegetarian and vegan options are available.
• Certified Brands: Brands like Midamar, Al-Safa, and Creek Hollow Farm offer certified zabiha meat online and in stores.

4. How Halal Certification Works in the United States

There are multiple certification bodies that ensure food complies with Islamic dietary law. These include:

• IFANCA (Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America)
• HFSAA (Halal Food Standards Alliance of America)
• Halal Certification USA

Each organization issues certifications based on strict audits, inspections, and standards. Look for their labels on packaging.

5. How Can Muslims Verify If Food Is Halal in the USA?

Here are a few simple but reliable methods I personally use:

• Check for halal certification logos on the product.
• Use Zabihah.com to find user-reviewed halal eateries.
• When dining out, ask the restaurant for their supplier or certification body.
• Download apps like Muslim Pro or Zabihah app for live updates.

6. Halal vs. Kosher: What’s the Real Difference?

Although both Halal and Kosher follow strict dietary laws from religion (Islam and Judaism), they’re not interchangeable. Key differences include:

• Invocation: Halal requires God’s name (Bismillah) during slaughter; kosher does not.
• Alcohol: Forbidden in halal; allowed in kosher.
• Dairy & Meat: Kosher forbids mixing; halal allows it.

For a more detailed comparison, check this NPR article on Kosher vs. Halal.

7. Is Halal Food Actually Healthier?

This is one of the most debated topics. Halal food is often cleaner and safer because of its focus on hygiene, humane slaughter, and no use of blood or carrion. However, being halal doesn’t automatically make a food item “healthy.”

For example, fried halal chicken is still fried. But compared to non-certified meat, halal options often involve fewer preservatives and more ethical practices. According to a Healthline article on Halal food, it may reduce exposure to harmful additives and antibiotics.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, eating halal in the USA has become easier, but still requires diligence. Whether you’re a long-time halal consumer or just starting your journey, use resources like Zabihah and HFSAA to verify sources and shop confidently. It’s about more than food — it’s a lifestyle rooted in faith, health, and responsibility.