A Rising Star? Halal Consumer Protection Laws

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to explore the legal aspects of the nascent halal regime in the United States. In Part I, an introduction to halal dietary laws is given. In Part II, a summary history of the halal industry—both business and legal—is exposited. Part III is an in-depth analysis of possible key learnings that can be gleaned from the kosher regime in America. Here, the similarities and differences between kosher and halal, a brief look at kosher developments, and the constitutional issues that have recently been plaguing kosher statutes are explored. Part IV attempts to tie the three previous sections together and considers the practical obstacles a successful halal regime will need to overcome. Finally, Part V concludes with a few suggestions and a look ahead.