The 3 Prohibitions in Islam

1. No alcohol or anything made with alcohol may be consumed.
2. No smoking is permitted.
3. No pork or anything made with pork or lard may be consumed.

Haram is the Arabic word for ‘not permitted.’

Hallal is the Arabic word for ‘permitted’.

 Like the Jewish word ‘Kosher’.

Muslims look for this word on food packaging to be sure it does not contain products that are not permitted.

Muslims only eat hallal meat which has been bled—similar to the Jewish custom. While the butcher recites a short prayer, the animal's neck is sliced to make the animal bleed out before dying. This is often done facing Mecca. 

Exceptions to eating only hallal meat are made when living in countries where this is not possible or difficult to acquire.

  Although smoking is strictly prohibited in Islam, there has been great controversy in the world of Islam regarding the Hooka and new methods of inhaling such as vaping.

Many Muslims believe it is okay to use the Hooka or vape because it is not specifically mentioned in the Quran.

However, many say that it is Haram because it is harmful to the body.

The general consensus is to check with your local religious authority.

Misconception that Christians hold about Muslims

If food was cooked with pork or lard or cooked in the same pan that has been used for pork, but there is no pork served, it is okay to eat.

Truth

No food can touch or be cooked with anything touched by pork or lard.  

This extends to not eating anywhere pork is served because all the food is prepared in the same kitchen using the same cookery. 

Misconception that Christians hold about Muslims

It’s okay to use alcohol in cooking because the alcohol cooks out.

Truth

No alcohol can be consumed or used in cooking.

Interesting Facts:

Extracts are made with alcohol.  

Vinegar is not made with alcohol.