The Fiji Muslim League (FML) has once again reminded customers via social media that it has not approved McDonald’s Fiji as Halal, following a review conducted in August of this year.
In August it was reported in local media that FML General Secretary Saiyad Hussain said the review, carried out by the Board of Islamic Affairs, examined the mechanical slaughter process used by McDonald’s meat suppliers in New Zealand and found it “does not fully comply with our requirements.”
“As a result, McDonald’s Fiji does not hold Halal approval from the Fiji Muslim League.”
However, McDonald’s Fiji has maintained that its chicken products, including McChicken and Chicken McNuggets, continue to be certified Halal by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ).
“These products are manufactured by Ingham New Zealand, a trusted supplier that meets strict Halal certification standards set by FIANZ,” the company said in a public notice posted on Facebook in August.
Managing Director Mark MacElrath told local media that the long-standing 30-year relationship with the Fiji Muslim League but emphasised that the current issue lies between the FML and FIANZ regarding the chicken slaughtering process in New Zealand.
“McDonald’s is the end user and has no authority over certifications,” MacElrath said.
“We respect the Fiji Muslim League’s position and remain committed to serving safe, high-quality food to our customers.”
In August, McDonald’s Fiji temporarily paused some chicken menu items while awaiting further guidance from the relevant certification bodies.
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