BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has revoked the halal certificate of an ice cream business, R. M. S. Ice Cream Ventures, with immediate effect after enforcement officers found a brush made from pig hair being used in the preparation of ice cream cones.
In a statement, the ministry said the action was taken by the Halal Food Control Division of the Department of Syariah Affairs under Section 6(3) of the Halal Certificate and Halal Label Order, 2005, following routine compliance monitoring carried out under the authority of the Brunei Islamic Religious Council.
During an inspection of the premises registered under the halal certificate, enforcement officers discovered the pig-hair brush being used in the ice cream preparation process and in mobile sales vehicles operated by the business. Laboratory analysis by the Department of Scientific Services at the Ministry of Health confirmed the material used.
The revocation also covers four vehicles used for sales and distribution and took effect immediately.
The case is being investigated under Section 37 of the Halal Certificate and Halal Label Order, 2005. If convicted, the offence carries a penalty of up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to BND8,000 (US$6,316), or both.
The ministry reminded all halal certificate and permit holders that they are fully responsible for ensuring all equipment, ingredients and food preparation processes are halal, clean and free from non-halal or doubtful elements, stressing that any breach undermines public confidence in the country’s halal certification system.
The Halal Food Control Division said it will continue regular monitoring and enforcement operations. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
