Globalizing Halal Innovation Transforming Lives Through Food Tech and Beyond

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – September 21, 2025 – Imagine a world where your faith shapes not just what you eat, but how entire industries innovate for the better. That’s the vision Dr. Mian Nadeem Riaz, IFANCA Professor of Food Diversity at Texas A&M University, shared today at the Malaysia International Halal Research and Education Conference (MIHREC) 2025. Speaking to a room full of eager minds on the theme “Globalizing Halal Innovation: From Food Tech to Human Needs,” Dr. Riaz made it clear that halal is more than a label—it’s a movement blending tradition with cutting-edge progress.

Kicking off the two-day event (September 21-22) at the Putra World Trade Centre, Dr. Riaz captivated the audience with his warm delivery and stunning visuals. He started with food tech, explaining how it’s evolved from simply tweaking recipes to tackling big human needs like safety, nutrition, sustainability, and affordability. “It’s about feeding the world responsibly,” he said, pointing to exciting developments like lab-grown meats and plant-based alternatives that align with halal principles without traditional slaughter.

But Dr. Riaz didn’t stop at food. He painted a picture of globalization reshaping how we connect with products, services, and even our beliefs. Using a colorful supply chain diagram, he highlighted challenges like economic inequality and market competition, balanced by opportunities in cultural exchange and diverse consumer choices. “This is a global conversation,” he noted, urging everyone to think about how technology can keep halal authentic worldwide.

For Dr. Riaz, halal is a lifestyle, not just a dietary rule. Rooted in the Arabic word for “permissible,” it’s a system of Islamic values that governs what Muslims consume, use, and engage with daily—think trust, safety, and social good. He shared how halal standards champion cleanliness, animal welfare, fair trade, and transparency, grounding innovation in compassion and progress. “It’s about respecting our roots while looking forward,” he added.

The real eye-opener? How halal is transforming industries beyond the kitchen. Dr. Riaz showcased lab-grown meats that sidestep ethical concerns, blockchain tracking to ensure supply chain integrity, and smart packaging that’s both eco-friendly and halal-certified. He also touched on health-focused foods with vitamins and probiotics, alcohol-free medicines, and even halal cosmetics free of questionable additives. “It’s a holistic approach,” he said, extending to Sharia-compliant fintech, modest fashion, and fusion eateries blending global flavors with transparency.

With over 2 billion Muslims worldwide driving demand, Dr. Riaz highlighted the halal industry’s reach—43% in food, 23% in media and clothing, and growing sectors like pharmaceuticals and tourism. Countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and the UAE are leading the charge with certification and infrastructure, while markets in Europe, Africa, and the Americas are catching on. “This isn’t just for Muslims—it’s for anyone who values ethics,” he emphasized.

Wrapping up, Dr. Riaz left the crowd inspired, rooting halal innovation in social purpose. “It’s about meeting human needs with heart,” he concluded, sparking applause and lively discussions as MIHREC 2025 continues. If today’s talk is any sign, the halal movement is set to reshape our world—one thoughtful innovation at a time.