Is Hi chew superfruit mix flavored fruit chews Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a candy is Halal, we must look beyond the marketing claims of "superfruit" and "natural flavors" to the functional ingredients that give the product its texture. In the case of Hi Chew Superfruit Mix, the texture comes from a combination of sugars and a specific gelling agent.

The ingredient list explicitly includes gelatin. Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. It is usually obtained from cows or pigs. In the context of Halal dietary laws, gelatin is considered Halal only if it is derived from a Halal slaughtered animal. However, in mass-produced confectionery like Hi Chew, the source of gelatin is rarely specified and is statistically most likely to be porcine (pork) or from non-Zabiha beef. Without a specific Halal certification symbol on the packaging, the presence of gelatin is an immediate disqualifier.

Additionally, the ingredient honey is present. While honey is generally Halal, strict Halal observers often look for a certification to ensure no cross-contamination occurred during processing. The main flag, however, remains the gelatin.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Hi Chew Superfruit Mix is primarily a source of quick energy, derived almost entirely from sugar. The first three ingredients are Glucose syrup, sugar, and vegetable oil. This combination creates a high-calorie, low-nutrient food item.

A single serving contains a significant amount of added sugar, which contributes to the chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor profile. While the inclusion of chia seeds and fruit purees (like kiwi puree) adds a negligible amount of fiber and micronutrients, they are present in quantities too small to offset the high sugar and calorie content. It fits into a diet as an occasional treat, but it is not a source of meaningful nutrition.