Mustakshif Shariah Board Rulings on Alcohol
According to Mustakshif Shariah Board, Ethanol is considered haram, when derived and used in intoxicating quantities or as part of alcoholic beverages,. This ruling stems from its intoxicating nature, which is explicitly prohibited in Islamic law. Even when not consumed as a beverage, the presence of intoxicating ethanol in food or drink renders it impermissible if it retains its inebriating potential.
Islamic verdicts and scholarly consensus
Numerous fatwas declare ethanol as haram when sourced from or used in intoxicants. However, opinions may vary if the alcohol is fully transformed (istihalah) or used in negligible, non-intoxicating amounts, such as in some medicines or external products. Still, the majority lean towards avoiding it, especially in consumables.
A brief explanation of alcohol
Alcohol is a colourless, volatile compound primarily recognised in drinks like beer and wine. Alternative names include grain alcohol, ethanol, ethyl alcohol and drinking alcohol. Although used in various food and industrial products, only ethanol is consumable; methanol and isopropanol are harmful and never intended for ingestion.
How ethanol is made: from plants to pure spirit
Classified as a solvent, preservative, and antimicrobial agent, ethanol originates from fermenting sugar-rich substances. This sugar is commonly sourced from grains such as barley, corn, and wheat; fruits like grapes and apples; or sugar beets and sugarcane.
The manufacturing process involves:
- Fermentation: Yeast breaks down sugars, converting them into ethanol and carbon dioxide.
- Distillation: The liquid undergoes heating to separate alcohol from the mixture.
- Purification: Impurities are removed to achieve high-grade ethanol.
- Ageing (optional): Beverages like whiskey mature in barrels for distinct tastes.
Versatile applications
This compound plays several roles:
- Flavour enhancement: Adds depth to alcoholic drinks and food extracts.
- Preservation: Extends shelf life by preventing microbial growth.
- Solvent properties: Dissolves essences and colours evenly in products.
- Industrial uses: Found in medicines, perfumes, and sanitisers.
Final word
Ethanol, or alcohol, is widely used but presents a clear boundary for observant Muslims. Its intoxicating quality and role in alcoholic beverages place it under the haram category. Understanding its origin, function, and religious classification can help consumers make informed and conscious choices.
