Halal assurance beyond science: A perspective on socioeconomic factors and consumer trust in food authentication

Abstract

Halal assurance within the global food system has traditionally relied on scientific verification methods such as chromatographic, spectroscopic, genomic and immunological analyses to authenticate and determine product compliance with Islamic dietary laws. While these methods remain critical and essential for detecting non-compliant contaminants, this article argues that scientific validation alone is insufficient to foster consumer confidence and trust in halal certification. Drawing on an interdisciplinary synthesis of food science, analytical chemistry, sociology, economics, and religious studies, this article explores how socioeconomic and cultural factors, including education, income, religious literacy, cultural identity, and institutional credibility, influence consumer perceptions and acceptance of halal-certified products. The analysis also reveals that these sociocultural dimensions are significant in legitimising halal governance frameworks and sustaining public trust. This article recommends advancing halal literacy, enhancing transparency in certification processes, adopting participatory and inclusive governance models and utilising digital traceability tools to strengthen the integrity and inclusivity of halal certification systems. Hence, by expanding halal assurance beyond laboratory-based validation, this study calls for a more holistic, socially attuned and equitable approach to halal authentication that reflects the complexity of contemporary worldwide markets and the diverse expectations of Muslim consumers.