Is Non-Alcoholic Beer Halal? Lets Find Out!
Non-alcoholic beer has become increasingly popular among those who desire to taste beer but not experience the effects of alcohol. But for Muslims, the question of questions is: Is non-alcoholic beer halal? In this article, we will examine the Islamic view on non-alcoholic beer, how it is produced, and if it is halal to drink.
Understanding Non-Alcoholic Beer
Non-alcoholic beer is a drink that is brewed like normal beer but is processed to eliminate or lower the alcohol content. Non-alcoholic beer typically retains a trace of alcohol, usually between 0.0% and 0.5% ABV (Alcohol by Volume). The question remains whether this trace amount of alcohol renders it haram or if it falls under permissible in Islamic law.
The Islamic View of Alcohol
Islam prohibits absolutely the use of intoxicants, including alcohol, according to the Quran:
> “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” (Quran 5:90)
The hadith also focus on the fact that any intoxicant in huge amounts is haram, even a little:
> “Whatever intoxicates in large quantity, a small quantity of it is also prohibited.” (Sunan Abu Dawood 3681)
This rule ensures that any drink with intoxicating alcohol in it is forbidden, even in very small quantities.
Is Non-Alcoholic Beer Really Alcohol-Free?
Most brands of non-alcoholic beer still have traces of alcohol (up to 0.5% ABV). While very much less than regular beer, they are not totally alcohol-free. Muslim scholars have disagreed on whether very small traces of alcohol are permissible. These are two key opinions:
1. Strict View: There are scholars who believe that because the beverage is derived from an alcoholic process and still has alcohol residues, it is still not allowed. Anything that has to do with alcohol is considered haram.
2. Lenient View: According to other scholars, if the alcohol content is insignificant and does not intoxicate even when taken in huge amounts, it can be allowed. They equate it to naturally occurring alcohol in certain fermented foods (e.g., vinegar or fruit juices).
Verdict: Is It Halal or Haram?
The decision regarding non-alcoholic beer is based on:
– The origin and process of its manufacture
– Whether it has any trace of alcohol
– The scholars you follow’ opinion
Safe Method: Steer Clear of Doubtful Issues
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
> “Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 2518)
In order to steer clear of doubtful issues, numerous Muslims opt to avoid non-alcoholic beer altogether. Instead, they consume halal-certified drinks that do not come from an alcohol production process.
Conclusion
Although some academics might permit 0.0% alcohol non-alcoholic beer, most concur that any alcoholic content in the drink must be avoided. If you are not sure, it is always advisable to refer to an erudite Islamic scholar or resort to alternatives that are totally alcohol-free. Finally, pursuing halal and clean food is always the best course of action for a Muslim.
What Do You Think?
Do you think that non-alcoholic beer is halal? Let us know your opinions and experiences in the comments! and you’d like to watch video, then go to our channel and watch video “Is Non-Alcoholic Beer Halal“.
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