In the Name of Allah, The Merciful, The Compassionate

Halal seafood: Can Muslims eat shrimp and other shellfish?

Halal seafood: Can Muslims eat shrimp and other shellfish?

Seafood holds a unique position within Islamic jurisprudence. The Qur’an, in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:96), states: “Lawful to you is the pursuit of water game and its use for food” — establishing a clear foundation for its permissibility.

In addition, several Hadiths (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) support this understanding. Abdullah ibn Umar reported that the Prophet said: “Two types of dead animals and two types of blood have been made lawful for us: the two types of dead animals are fish and locusts.”

These references indicate that seafood is generally considered Halal, as the sea is viewed as a pure and lawful source of sustenance. However, interpretations differ among Islamic schools of thought, particularly regarding specific species such as shrimp, shellfish, and mollusks.

While some schools consider all aquatic creatures permissible, others distinguish between those that live exclusively in water and those that also live on land. Understanding these nuances is essential for the correct application of Halal certification and for upholding Islamic dietary principles.

➡️ SIILHalal reaffirms its commitment to ensuring clarity, transparency, and full compliance with Islamic law throughout every stage of certification.

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