Behind a restaurant’s halal certification lies the business owner’s experience in following a process that presents both challenges and opportunities to ensure that raw materials, production processes, and products meet the requirements of the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH). For businesses, following this process demonstrates their commitment to building customer trust, especially with the support and guidance from the LPH LPPOM.
In recent years, public awareness of the importance of halal food has increased. This increased consumer awareness, coupled with regulatory obligations, has prompted businesses to prioritise meeting consumer demands as quickly as possible.
To meet these consumer demands and regulatory obligations, an increasing number of restaurants have obtained halal certification. Consumers who care about halal certification will undoubtedly ensure that the halal certificate is displayed in the restaurant where they choose to purchase.
However, behind the halal certificate displayed in front of the restaurant lies a journey of understanding the requirements, documenting them in a Halal Product Assurance System (SJPH) manual, and implementing them in the company’s operations.
This story is shared by many business owners, including Sevenpine Kitchen, a nature-themed cafe located in the Tamansari area of Bogor. Initially, the strategic location and calming natural atmosphere were considered sufficient attractions. However, it turned out that customers began to question a more fundamental aspect: the halal-certified products.
“We’re increasingly receiving questions about the halal-certified food and beverages we serve,” said Fitri Fuzawati, Internal Halal Audit Coordinator at Sevenpine. These questions aren’t just idle chatter, but reflect the growing concerns and expectations of Muslim consumers regarding halal certification.
Facing this, business owners feel the need to address these concerns seriously. Moreover, as Muslims, a commitment to halal-certified products is not just a business matter, but also a moral responsibility.
Recognize the Challenges, Get Support and Solutions from LPH LPPOM
Applying for halal certification is certainly not a quick process. Many business owners hesitate due to the perceived complexity and tediousness of these processes. Concerns like “Will I have to change raw materials?” or “What if my supplier isn’t halal?” often delay good intentions.
Fitri admitted that her team felt overwhelmed. “We had to start by re-registering raw materials, checking all production processes, ensuring there was no potential for cross-contamination, and even correcting some old habits that weren’t in line with halal principles,” she said.
However, that’s where the turning point began. The halal certification process, it turns out, isn’t just an inspection to ensure that businesses meet the Halal Product Assurance System (SJPH) criteria; it also includes a learning aspect. Throughout the process, they were assisted by a professional team from the Halal Inspection Body (LPH) LPPOM, who provided technical and systematic guidance.
One of the most significant benefits they experienced was the educational approach of the LPH LPPOM auditors and assistants. “They patiently explained each step. So, we weren’t just inspected, but also encouraged to understand why it was important and how to implement it sustainably,” said Fitri.
Furthermore, they emphasized that the halal inspection process at the LPH LPPOM is highly transparent. Sevenpine feels that with the support of LPH LPPOM, the inspection process has become practical and efficient.
In practice, halal certification is not merely a result, but a transformation in mindset—from a focus solely on taste and appearance to a shift toward comprehensive halal and goodness (thayyib).
The culinary world is no longer just about good taste. Consumers are increasingly discerning. They want to know where the ingredients come from, how they are processed, and whether all of this aligns with their values. In this context, halal certification is a symbol of honesty and transparency.
Halal certification isn’t just for large businesses. Micro and medium-sized enterprises, such as cafes, food stalls, and home-based catering establishments, benefit significantly from this certification. The trust it builds opens up a broader market and strengthens customer loyalty.
Sevenpine is just one of many culinary businesses that have finally taken this step. There are challenges, but they can be overcome, especially with support from competent institutions and an increasingly integrated system.
Halal Certification, a Step Worth Taking
Now, after obtaining halal certification in March 2024, Sevenpine recognizes that this certification is not the final step, but rather a gateway to quality improvement, encompassing not only products but also overall management and operations.
For other business owners, experiences like this can be both inspiring and motivating. Challenges will always exist, but with a willingness to learn and the proper support, ensuring the halal status of products by implementing SJPH is achievable. It can become an added value that differentiates our business from others.
Amidst the halal lifestyle trend and increasing awareness among Muslim consumers, halal certification is not just a legality—it represents a concrete commitment. It is through this commitment that even small businesses can grow into large ones.
To meet this need, LPH LPPOM (Indonesian Food and Drug Authority) is launching a discussion forum for restaurant owners interested in halal certification through its Customer Care service, available at Call Centre 14056 or via WhatsApp at 0811-1148-696.
Furthermore, business owners can learn more about the halal certification process by attending the free Introduction to Halal Certification (PSH) class, held regularly on the second and fourth weeks of every month at https://halalmui.org/pengenalan-sertifikasi-halal/.
LPH LPPOM also urges Muslim consumers to be selective in choosing products. One way to verify product halalness is through the website www.halalmui.org or the BPJPH website https://bpjph.halal.go.id/. (ZUL)
