Tayyib Meat: We Are What We Eat

​Some of us; Muslims, have an intense fixation on the concept of Halal, often exclusively associating it with meat. However, we seem to overlook the significance of another crucial aspect: Tayyib. Derived from the Arabic word Tayyib (ط ي ب), it encompasses the meanings of being good, pleasant, pure, wholesome, and agreeable. It represents cleanliness, wholesomeness, excellence, and fairness. While halal ensures that the animal is slaughtered correctly and permissible for consumption, Tayyib ensures that the food we consume is not only permissible but also healthy, nutritious, and beneficial for our well-being. It is essential to consider the health and quality of the animals we consume, ensuring they are free from diseases, hormones, antibiotics, and chemicals during the time of slaughter. Moreover, Islamic principles emphasize that animals should be slaughtered without causing unnecessary pain and away from the sight and hearing of other animals.

"It is part of Islam to eat fresh, home- grown, clean food. Food which is Tayyib (Wholesome, pure, clean, nutritious)." ​- ​Halal Animal Welfare Association

The significance of Tayyib meat cannot be understated, as Allah Himself emphasizes its importance in the Quran. In Surat al-Baqarah, Allah instructs us to consume what is on earth, emphasizing that it should be both halal and Tayyib. The combination of these two words is consistently mentioned together, highlighting their equal significance. It is intriguing to ponder why we have chosen to disregard half of this criterion. While we have become adept at discerning what is halal and what is not, we seem to lack the same diligence when it comes to ensuring the Tayyib aspect. This oversight raises questions about our understanding and implementation of Islamic principles regarding food.

As Muslims, it is crucial for us to reflect upon the significance of Tayyib in our dietary choices. By focusing solely on the halal aspect, we may inadvertently neglect the importance of consuming food that is good, pure, and beneficial for our bodies. Allah's guidance in the Quran urges us to be mindful of both halal and Tayyib, reminding us not to follow the footsteps of the evil one. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to prioritize the quality and healthfulness of the food we consume, ensuring that it aligns with the principles of Tayyib. By doing so, we not only fulfill our religious obligations but also promote our own well-being and the well-being of the animals we consume.

It is evident that there is a shift in mindset among millennial Muslims when it comes to their consumption of halal meat. The focus is no longer solely on the halal aspect of the meat, but also on the ethical considerations surrounding its sourcing. This change reflects a deeper understanding and appreciation for the well-being of the animals that provide us with sustenance. By asking questions about the breed of the animal, how it was treated, and what it was fed, Muslims are showing a desire for transparency and accountability in the food industry.

The teachings of the Qur’an play a significant role in shaping the attitudes of Muslims towards animals and the environment. The verse that highlights the communities of animals and birds on earth emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings. This interconnectedness underscores the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect, in line with the concept of being guardians of the earth. As such, it raises the question of why Muslims are not at the forefront of advocating for animal rights, given the ethical framework provided by Islamic teachings.

In response to the changing preferences of millennial Muslims, restaurants are adapting to meet the demand for ethically sourced and sustainable meat. By offering high-quality halal and Tayyib meats, these establishments are catering to a generation that values not only the religious requirements of halal but also the ethical considerations of how the meat is sourced. This shift towards ethically sourced meats reflects a broader trend towards conscious consumerism and a desire for transparency in the food industry.

There are several reasons why the consumption of Tayyib meat is not more widespread. Firstly, there is a lack of awareness and recognition of the term "Tayyib" within our communities. As Muslims, it is important for us to educate ourselves and others about the benefits and necessities surrounding Tayyib meat. Increasing awareness can help promote the importance of consuming meat that is sourced and slaughtered in a halal manner. Secondly, convenience plays a significant role in our choices as consumers. Many Muslims prioritize convenience over the quest for spiritual gains. This often leads to the consumption of poor quality halal meat, which is readily available in local Halal meat markets. It is crucial for us to strike a balance between convenience and the quality of the meat we consume.

Lastly, cost is a major factor that influences the choices of Muslims when it comes to meat consumption. Price often takes precedence over meat quality, leading to the purchase of cheap, intensively farmed produce. This compromises the taste and overall experience of consuming meat. It is important for Muslims to understand that good quality meat comes at a higher price, and investing in such meat is essential for a better dining experience. In conclusion, the limited consumption of Tayyib meat can be attributed to the lack of awareness, convenience, and cost considerations. By increasing awareness, making informed choices, and understanding the value of good quality meat, we can work towards promoting the consumption of Tayyib meat within our communities.

It is an undeniable fact that Muslims in Britain have a significant consumption of meat, similar to the general population. Studies conducted in the UK have revealed that despite Muslims making up only 4.6% of the population, they consume 20% of the country's lamb. The Muslim Council of Britain has also reported that the halal food market in the UK is valued at £1bn. This high demand for halal meat has led to Muslims becoming accustomed to paying lower prices for their meat, which has its consequences.

The high demand for Halal meat has resulted in intensive farming practices within the industry, which ultimately compromises the welfare of livestock. Animals raised for Halal meat are often subjected to distressing conditions, confined in cages, and reared in cramped environments. This raises ethical concerns about the meat that is readily available to consumers. In order to ensure the consumption of Tayyib meat, it is essential to consider reducing overall meat consumption, as the current demand is met through unsustainable intensive farming methods.

Encouraging the purchase of organic halal meat could potentially address some of these issues. By increasing the demand for organic halal meat, the higher price point may discourage excessive consumption among Muslims. Over time, the price of organic halal meat could decrease, making it more accessible and affordable to a wider range of Muslim consumers. It is important to note that consuming excessive amounts of meat goes against Islamic teachings, and promoting sustainable practices within the halal meat industry is crucial for both ethical and health reasons.

According to Hamza Yusuf, the historical dietary habits of Muslims were characterized by minimal meat consumption, to the extent that they could be considered almost vegetarian. Wealthy Muslims would include meat in their meals only once a week, while the less fortunate would have it a few times a year. Surprisingly, the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) himself did not advocate for daily meat consumption. His regular diet consisted of foods such as dates, water, vinegar, honey, yogurt, barley bread, and grapes, with meat being a rare indulgence. When he did consume meat, he particularly favored sheep's shoulder or foreleg.

Additionally, the second Caliph Umar ibn al Khattaab expressed concerns about the addictive nature of meat, comparing it to alcohol. Astonishingly, even after 1,500 years, these concerns seem to have been largely ignored. During his leadership, Umar went as far as prohibiting people from eating meat on consecutive days, allowing them to consume it only every other day. On one occasion, he encountered a man who was eating meat daily, and he questioned the man's excessive meat consumption. Umar suggested that the man should consider reducing his intake so that others could have their share, highlighting the importance of moderation.

​​The Benefits of Choosing Tayyib Meat

part from the religious and historical reasons for limited meat consumption, there are also scientific justifications for this practice. While meat is considered a beneficial and permissible food, its regular consumption can have detrimental effects on health. Studies have shown that frequent meat intake is associated with an increased risk of diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and obesity. Conversely, individuals who consume meat a few times a week or month have lower rates of heart disease and cancer, weigh less, and live longer. Vegetarians, who abstain from meat altogether, tend to weigh even less, have a significantly reduced risk of cancer, and enjoy a longer lifespan. It is remarkable to witness how scientific research aligns with the teachings of the prophet Muhammad, underscoring the relevance and foresight of his guidance even after 1400 years.

The excessive consumption of meat within the Muslim community today is solely a result of cultural practices, and I firmly believe that our selfish desires have compromised the permissibility of our actions according to Islamic teachings. This point holds great significance because it presents us with an opportunity to reduce our reliance on low-quality halal meat, consume less meat overall in accordance with the sunnah, and only indulge in meat that is Tayyib, healthier, and of superior quality. I understand that this may seem like a flawless plan that simply requires a bit more effort from us Muslims.

​In conclusion, the age-old saying "You are what you eat" holds true for us. As Muslims, we tend to focus more on how our animals are slaughtered rather than how they are raised. However, the truth is that the latter is just as crucial as the former. Through personal experience, I have found that meat from ethically raised livestock not only tastes far better but also possesses a significantly higher quality compared to the halal meat produced through intensive farming methods. If we truly desire to improve our diet and lead healthier lives, the responsibility lies with us. Let us strive to be more mindful of the importance of consuming both Tayyib and Halal meat. The future is in our hands.

Ready to Feed Your Family Ethical & Tayyib Meat

‎”The quality of our food determines in large part the quality of our lives. And the quality of what we eat is determined by every step that goes into production and processing – the feeding of the animals, care of the soil, preservation, storage and even cooking methods.” Weston A. Price 

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