The ethics of Halal meat consumption: preferences of consumers in England according to the method of slaughter

Background The continued growth of the global Halal meat market has resulted in many mainstream businesses in the developed world trading in Halal products. A good understanding of Halal consumer behaviour with regard to their preference of meat according to the method of slaughter (pre-stunned or not) and the frequency of consumption is vital for the formulation of future animal welfare legislation, consumer protection policies and research strategies of educational institutions. Methods In this study, 250 Halal meat consumers in England were surveyed to obtain a better understanding of their meat consumption frequency, preference of meat according to species of animals and the method of slaughter. Results The results show that the majority (50.8 per cent) of consumers ate meat at least once a week, 45.6 per cent at least once a day, 3.2 per cent at least once a month and 0.4 per cent ate meat occasionally. Poultry meat was marginally the most preferred meat among respondents overall, followed by lamb and beef, with the majority of respondents (approximately 70 per cent) indicating preference for meat from animals slaughtered without stunning over those stunned before slaughter. There were gender differences within some responses. Conclusion The results give an insight into Halal consumer behaviour, and may be useful to retailers, researchers, consumer advocates, animal welfare charities and government.