This page explains how we research, test, write and update content on HalalInstead.
1. We do not issue religious rulings
Questions such as “is this halal?” sometimes have more than one answer among scholars and certifiers. We report what named halal certifiers and scholars say, link to their statements, and explain where views differ and why. If your own practice follows a particular school or scholar, follow their guidance. We never present one opinion as the only one when credible views differ.
2. How we check brands, restaurants and stores
- We use the company’s own statements, published ingredient lists, and halal certifier listings.
- Every check shows a “Last checked” date and links to the source.
- We separate countries. A product can be halal in one country and not in another because recipes and certification differ.
- Subhan Ullah is based in Pakistan and does not visit US stores in person. US product and store information comes from the sources above.
- We re-check brand and restaurant pages about every three months, and sooner when a reader reports a change.
3. How we test and source swaps
- When a page says a swap was tested, we cooked with it ourselves and share the amounts, the method, and what changed in taste and texture, including swaps that did not work, with the test date.
- When we have not tested a swap yet, the page says so and links to the published kitchen tests and cooking references we used.
- Photos on recipe and swap pages are our own unless a caption credits another source.
4. Sources we prefer
- Halal certifiers and their published standards
- Scholars and fatwa bodies, named and linked
- Company statements and ingredient lists
- Government food standards (for example, US FDA and USDA definitions)
- Reputable cooking references
We do not use anonymous forum posts as evidence, though they help us understand what readers are asking.
5. Health topics
We do not give health, nutrition, allergy or pregnancy advice. Please ask a qualified professional.
6. Use of AI tools
We use AI tools to help with research and outlines. Every article is fact-checked and reviewed by Subhan Ullah, who is responsible for everything published here. AI is never used to invent tests, results, photos or experience.
7. Corrections
If something is wrong or out of date, please tell us through the contact page. We correct errors promptly and add an update note with the date.
8. Advertising and affiliate links
This site is supported by ads and affiliate links. Advertisers do not influence what we write, which products we check, or our conclusions.