News From : DagangHalal.com (09 May 2009)
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.