As a Muslim who enjoys snacks, I have always been drawn to candies, especially those with a chewy texture. One such popular treat is Hi-Chew, a Japanese candy produced by Morinaga. However, the curiosity surrounding whether it is permissible according to Islamic guidelines led me to examine its status closely.
The diet of a Muslim is governed by strict principles, and the consumption of any food must be scrutinized to ensure it aligns with halal-friendly standards. This is essential, particularly as the global market for halal products is growing, and many companies are catering to this demand.
To ascertain the ingredients, I embarked on a journey to explore whether this dessert fits within Islamic dietary laws. Some categories of foods, such as meat and seafood, require deeper understanding and careful checking.
The article I read suggested alternative options for those who wish to adhere to halal standards. While some believe certain versions of Hi-Chew may meet halal-friendly criteria, it remains essential to check with the company directly. With the increasing attention on halal labeling, consumers should stay informed and make choices that align with their faith.
What Is Hi-Chew Candy?
Hi-Chew is a Japanese candy that has gained popularity worldwide for its chewy texture and mouth-watering flavors. Originally introduced by Morinaga in 1975, this unique treat has evolved into a global brand, offering both traditional and exotic flavors.
Each piece is individually wrapped in foil or paper, featuring a logo-stamped design. The outer layer is smooth, while the inside delivers a burst of fruity goodness with choices like strawberry, green apple, grape, and even tropical varieties such as Dragon Fruit and blue Hawaii.
Fans often compare it to Starburst or Welch’s Snacks, but with a softer, longer-lasting chew. For Muslim consumers, the question remains whether Hi-Chew is compatible with halal dietary laws.
The ingredients and coating of the candy vary by country, and some editions may contain elements that require closer inspection. As a special treat enjoyed across the United States and beyond, its creation has led to many variety releases, keeping the experience exciting. The blend of flavored layers and chewing satisfaction make it a favorite for many, but those following halal guidelines should verify its status before indulging.
Who Is Taichiro Morinaga?
Taichiro Morinaga was a Japanese businessman born in 1865 who changed the candy industry forever. At 23, he traveled to the United States, where an American citizen introduced him to sweets. Inspired by the flavors, he learned the craft of candy-making and worked in a factory. His passion led him to create Chewlets, a chewy caramel candy, in 1931.
After World War II, this candy evolved into Hi-Chews in 1975, a treat that became popular in Japan and later gained a global audience. Today, Morinaga & Company continues to grow, with plants in Japan and an expanding presence in western markets like Hong Kong and the United States.
The candy’s success has even reached Walt Disney World and Epcot, with fans enjoying special varieties such as Superfruit mix and Chew Sours. The brand has gained traction through social media, including Instagram, making it an undeniable favorite among students and candy lovers worldwide.
You Might also like: Is Cheetos Really Halal in islam?
Hi-Chew’s Ingredients
Hi-Chew candies are made with a blend of carefully chosen ingredients to create a chewy, flavorful treat. The standard flavors include Strawberry, Grape, Green Apple, Watermelon, Original, and Exotic varieties.
- Glucose Syrup
- Sugar
- Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil
- Gelatine (Pork)
- Natural and Artificial Flavours
- Malic Acid
- Citric Acid
- Juice Concentrate
- Emulsifiers (Sucrose Esters of Fatty Acids)
- Sorbitan Monostearate
- Colouring
When checking if Hi-Chew is halal, the main concern is its key ingredient—pork gelatin. This ingredient is made from the bones and skin of pigs, which makes it forbidden under Islamic dietary laws.
Many Muslims follow a strict halal diet, and since pork gelatin is haram, Hi-Chew is impermissible for them. Even though halal-certified alternatives exist in the market, Morinaga’s official website confirms the use of pork gelatin in its beloved treat.
Hi-Chew comes in different flavors like Strawberry, Grape, Green Apple, Watermelon, and more. Some flavors contain citric acid for a sour taste, which is naturally found in citrus fruits. It also has DL-malic acid, which can be synthetic or natural, but Morinaga uses the edible kind.
The outer layer may seem rubber-like, but it is actually white wax paper, which is non-edible yet harmless. For those with gluten sensitivities, the good news is that Hi-Chew is gluten-free. However, it’s always best to check the packaging and expiration date to avoid cross-contamination.
In the past, an isolated incident at the Hyogo Morinaga factory involved a worker’s glove being found in the candy, leading to a recall of the affected products and improved safety protocols for better food safety.
Despite these concerns, Hi-Chew remains a favorite in the community, with fans suggesting new flavors through user-submitted votes. The Japanese line has introduced exciting varieties like strawberry cheesecake and cotton candy. The brand even offers free delivery for bulk candy orders in certain regions, making the journey of Hi-Chew lovers even sweeter.
Is Hi-Chew Halal?
Hi-Chew is not halal due to the presence of pork gelatin, which makes it impermissible for Muslims who follow a halal diet. While the candy is delicious and popular, those seeking halal-friendly options should look for alternatives that do not contain haram ingredients.
Unfortunately, Hi-Chew is not certified as halal, making it impermissible as a part of a halal lifestyle.
The Issue With Gelatin In Hi-Chew
One of the main concerns surrounding Hi-Chew candy is its use of pork-derived gelatin, which is common in many candies, marshmallows, and desserts to create a soft and chewy texture.
For Muslim consumers, this becomes a significant problem because pork is prohibited in Islam. The use of pork gelatin makes the candy haram (forbidden), meaning it is not permissible to consume for those following a halal diet.
While there are halal-certified alternatives like agar-agar, pectin, and gelatin from halal-slaughtered animals, Morinaga continues to use pork-derived gelatin, making Hi-Chew unsuitable for those looking for halal-friendly products. As the market for halal-friendly products grows, many consumers are seeking out alternatives, but Hi-Chew remains a haram choice for those who avoid pork in their diets.
Gluten-Free But Not Halal
Although Hi-Chew is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it still poses a problem for Muslim consumers due to its use of pork gelatin. The candy may offer consolation to those avoiding gluten ingredients, but for Muslims, the presence of pork gelatin makes it haram.
Even though manufacturers update the ingredients list and packaging, and cross-contamination can occur in factories, the core issue remains the same: Hi-Chew isn’t halal because of its non-permissible ingredients, regardless of its gluten-free nature.
You Might also like: Is McDonald’s UK HALAL?
Halal-Friendly Alternatives to Hi-Chew
If you’re a Muslim consumer who loves chewy fruit candies but can’t have Hi-Chew, there are many halal-friendly alternatives available. These halal-certified options use plant-based gelatin or halal-certified gelatin, ensuring the candies are safe to eat. Popular gummies and candies from various companies offer delicious, chewy treats without the use of pork-derived gelatin.
- Ziyad Halal Candies: Providing a variety of gummy and chewy candies made with halal-certified gelatin allows Muslim consumers to enjoy their favorite snacks while following their dietary rules.
- Halal Gummy Bears: A popular choice that closely resembles the texture and taste of traditional gummies, but is made with gelatin sourced from halal-certified materials, making it suitable for Muslim consumers who want a treat that meets their dietary requirements.
- Jelly Belly Gelatin-Free Candies: Although not officially halal-certified, Jelly Belly has many chewy candies that don’t contain gelatin, which Muslim consumers might find okay to enjoy.
These options let Muslim consumers have a similar candy experience while still following their dietary rules.
Conclusion
For Muslim consumers who follow a halal lifestyle, the current ingredients in Hi-Chew pose a challenge due to the absence of a halal-certified option. Despite the growing demand for halal-friendly products, Morinaga continues to use non-halal gelatin in Hi-Chew, which means the candy remains off the list for those mindful of their food choices. Until companies like Morinaga offer a halal gelatin substitute, alternatives will continue to be important for those seeking suitable options.
Qamar Ul Haq is an Islamic historian and writer with a passion for uncovering the rich heritage of Muslim civilizations. Through in-depth research and storytelling, He brings to life the achievements, struggles, and contributions of the Ummah throughout history.