This requires extensive research and development initiatives and a
quest for alternative ingredients to replace non-halal ingredients in
halal products, said Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, wife of Prime Minister
Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
Rosmah, who was delivering the closing
speech at the World Halal Research Summit 2009 at the Kuala Lumpur
Convention Centre yesterday, said there were many areas that had a huge
potential to generate profit.
Among the areas were research and
development to find alternatives to the use of gelatin, enzymes and
emulsifiers in baked goods, candies, pill capsules and other consumer
products.
“With the increasing global demand for halal
cosmetics, body care products and pharmaceuticals, the complexity of
ingredients used in these products comes under close scrutiny. Muslim
consumers are very sensitive about the usage of animal-based
ingredients such as gelatin, enzymes and emulsifiers.”
Gelatins are derived from processed and refined animal
protein and its application can be found mainly in food processing,
cosmetics and toiletries.
“Currently less then one per cent of the world’s gelatin production is
derived from halal sources,” she said, adding that Malaysian palm oil
could be used as a halal alternative to produce gelatin.
“There
is potential to tap into the demand for halal consumer goods by making
Malaysia a centre for innovation, production and trade in halal and
natural ingredients.”
Rosmah also launched the world’s first device, by Olipro Biotechnoology Sdn Bhd, which screens for non-halal ingredients.
The two-day summit was organised by the Halal Industry Development Corporation.
