In the wake of a controversial Belgian ban on halal and kosher slaughter, the debate surrounding the two religious practices is heating up.

The decision means that the practice is now is now illegal in the northern region of Flanders.

Some are saying that the ban is a violation of their religious freedom and others are arguing that it’s preventing animal cruelty.

So now might be the perfect time to learn what halal and kosher food practices actually entail, if you aren’t already aware.

What makes meat halal or kosher?

Both halal slaughter and Jewish shechita slaughter involves slitting the throat of healthy, conscious animals, and electronically stunning livestock before they’re killed is in direct violation of this.