Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims and non-alcoholic protestors have united to voice their strong opposition against the production of alcoholic beverages by Bel Aqua, a renowned beverage company.
The outcry stems from Bel Aqua’s utilization of the same production lines for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, prompting widespread condemnation from Muslim communities. The use of identical machinery for the production of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages has sparked concerns about cross-contamination and the adherence to Islamic dietary laws.
Bel Aqua recently unveiled a line of alcoholic drinks bearing strikingly similar labels to their non-alcoholic counterparts. Notable examples include ‘Pukka’ versus ‘Pukka Extra’ and ‘Bel’ versus ‘Bel Ice’, raising eyebrows among consumers, particularly within the Muslim community.
Islamic scholars and adherents have categorically stated that such production methods contradict Islamic principles, labeling the practice as ‘Haram’, or forbidden under Islamic law. The mixing of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages under the same production process violates the religious sensitivities of many Muslims, especially during the sacred month of Ramadan, when devout Muslims fast from dawn till dusk.
Expressing their discontent, Muslims have called upon regulatory bodies such as the Food and Drug Authority(FDA) and the HALAL committee to intervene and launch a thorough investigation into Bel Aqua’s production practices. They are demanding stringent actions to ensure compliance with Islamic dietary laws and the segregation of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage manufacturing processes.
Bel Aqua has yet to issue an official statement regarding the controversy. However, the pressure mounts on the company to address the concerns raised by the Muslim community and take appropriate measures to rectify the situation.
