Are you a fan of Maruchan Shrimp Ramen but unsure if it’s halal?
The answer is unfortunately no. While the noodles themselves are made with halal ingredients, the broth and flavorings contain meat-derived ingredients such as chicken, pork, and beef.
This means that Maruchan Shrimp Ramen is not only non-vegan but also non-vegetarian. However, if you’re a shrimp lover, you’ll be happy to know that each cup of this instant ramen does come with real shrimp.
Keep reading to learn more about the halal status of Maruchan Shrimp Ramen and what to look out for when it comes to instant ramen.
Is Maruchan Shrimp Ramen Halal?
As mentioned earlier, Maruchan Shrimp Ramen is unfortunately not halal. The broth and flavorings contain meat-derived ingredients, which means it is not suitable for those who follow a halal diet.
Fish, chicken, and vegetables are used to make the broth, but no pork-based meat or products are utilized in the process. While this may be a relief for some, it’s important to note that the presence of chicken and beef in the flavorings makes it non-halal.
Understanding Halal Certification
Halal certification is given to food products that are processed or manufactured according to Islamic law and are permissible for devout Muslims to consume. This means that the food must not contain any ingredients that are deemed haram, or forbidden, such as pork, alcohol, or any meat-derived products like collagen.
To obtain halal certification, food makers must follow strict guidelines and procedures. For instance, the animals used for meat must be slaughtered in a specific way known as Zabihah. This involves cutting the animal’s throat with a sharp knife while reciting a prayer. The animal must also be healthy and free from disease before being slaughtered.
Additionally, the equipment used for processing and manufacturing must be thoroughly cleaned and free from any haram substances. The entire process must be supervised by a Muslim authority to ensure that all guidelines are followed correctly.
Why Maruchan Shrimp Ramen Is Not Halal
Maruchan Shrimp Ramen is not halal due to the presence of meat-derived ingredients in the broth and flavorings. While no pork-based meat or products are used, the use of chicken and beef in the flavorings makes it non-halal. The chicken-related flavors of Maruchan Ramen contain ingredients derived from real chicken, such as Powdered Cooked Chicken, Chicken Broth, and Chicken Fat. However, they do not contain big chunks of in-tact, real chicken.
For those who follow a halal diet, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients in packaged foods like Maruchan Shrimp Ramen. While it may be tempting to assume that all seafood-based products are halal, it’s always best to check the ingredient list or contact the company directly for more information. It’s also worth noting that some scholars disagree on whether chicken products are halal or not, so it’s important to do your own research and make informed decisions about what you consume.
Alternatives For Halal Instant Ramen
For those who follow a halal diet, finding suitable instant ramen options can be a challenge. However, there are some alternatives available that are halal-certified or contain only halal ingredients.
One option is Arirang Samyang’s halal instant ramen, which features a very spicy taste and fresh citrus leaf aroma. This instant fried ramen comes in a 130-gram package and is available through online shops.
Another alternative is to look for Asian instant noodles that are naturally vegan. While deciphering the labels can be a daunting task, there are some vegan options available that do not contain animal-derived ingredients. It’s important to note that some flavorings may contain disodium guanylate, which is commonly derived from fish. It’s best to check the ingredients carefully before consuming.
Palm oil is also a common ingredient in instant noodles, but it’s important to note that its use is a point of contention within the halal community. If you’re looking for halal-certified options, it’s best to look for products that have been certified by a reputable halal certifying agency.
Tips For Finding Halal Instant Ramen
For those who follow a halal diet, finding suitable instant ramen can be a bit of a challenge. Here are some tips to help you find halal instant ramen:
1. Look for the Halal logo: Many halal-certified instant ramen products have a right-handed logo depicting a ring and the word HALAL in white with a green background. This logo is an indication that the product is halal-oriented and suitable for Muslims.
2. Check the expiration date: Instant ramen products generally have an expiration date on the packaging. It’s important to pay attention to this, especially if you’re purchasing imported products.
3. Research brands: Some popular brands like Nissin offer halal-certified instant ramen options. Look for these brands and check their product labels to ensure that they are halal.
4. Check certification: Make sure to check if the product has been certified halal by a recognized certification body like the Korea Muslim Federation Halal Committee or JAKIM.
5. Ask for recommendations: If you’re unsure about which instant ramen products are halal, ask for recommendations from friends or family members who follow a halal diet.
By following these tips, you can find halal instant ramen options that are suitable for your dietary needs.
