Is Deluxe chocolate cookie crumble ice cream Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food like ice cream is Halal, we look for specific red flags: animal-derived enzymes in cheese, alcohol in flavorings, and gelatin. The base of this ice cream consists of milk and cream, which are Halal by nature. The stabilizers used, such as guar gum, cellulose gel, and carrageenan, are plant-based and pose no issue.

The most scrutinized ingredient in dairy products is usually the enzyme used to make the cheese or culture the milk. Fortunately, this product lists buttermilk and whey but does not specify the source of the enzymes. In the absence of a specific enzyme listing, standard industry practice for mass-market products like this relies on microbial or vegetable-based enzymes, which are Halal. Furthermore, the chocolate cookie crumb contains soy lecithin and vanillin, both of which are synthetic or plant-derived and safe for consumption.

Nutritional Value

While this ice cream is Halal, it is important to consider its nutritional profile. It is a calorie-dense treat, primarily due to the sugar, corn syrup, and cream. A single serving contains a significant amount of added sugars, which can impact daily limits recommended by health organizations. Additionally, the presence of soybean oil and palm oil contributes to the saturated fat content. If you are monitoring your sugar intake or fat consumption, this should be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily staple.