Halal Wellness & Innovation

Development and Characterization of Whey Protein Beverage Supplemented with Powdered Wolffia (Wolffia globosa) and Longkong (Lansium domesticum) Powder

Sofia Mekarat 1*and Rugchanok Puwaphut2
Email: Sofiamekarat@pnu.ac.th, Rugchanok.p@pnu.ac.th

Abstract

This study aimed to develop an instant plant-based protein powder using pea protein, Wolffia globosa, and spray-dried longkong powder as the principal ingredients. Five formulations were prepared using pea protein:W. globosa:longkong powder ratios of 1:1:0.2, 1:2:0.2, 1:3:0.2, 1:4:0.2, and 1:5:0.2, respectively. The formulations were subsequently evaluated for product preference to identify the most acceptable formulation. The results showed that the formulation containing the ingredients at a ratio of 1:3:0.2 received the highest preference and was therefore selected for nutritional analysis. The selected product provided 407.03 kcal, 38.43 g protein, 42.29 g total carbohydrate, 12.56 g total sugar, 9.35 g total fat, 7.12 g saturated fat, 2.40 mg cholesterol, 645.08 mg sodium, 802.95 mg potassium, 4.82 g ash, and 5.11 g moisture per 100 g. Based on a serving size of 50 g, the product provided approximately 200 kcal, 19 g protein, 21 g carbohydrate, 6 g total sugar, 4.5 g total fat, 3.5 g saturated fat, 320 mg sodium, and 400 mg potassium. The findings indicate that pea protein, W. globosa, and spray-dried longkong powder can be combined to produce a protein-rich instant plantbased powder with potential for adding value to local agricultural materials. Further investigations on sensory quality, physicochemical properties, solubility, amino acid composition, microbiological safety, and storage stability are recommended to support future commercial development.

Keywords: pea protein; Wolffia globosa; longkong; spray drying; plant-based protein powder

From Waste to Wellness: A Zero-Waste, Halal-Tayyib Model of University–Community Engagement for Livestock By-product Innovation in Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces

Nirandorn Nakdaeng1 and Kanok Chaovapasee2*
Email: kanok.c@pnu.ac.th

Abstract

Objective: This engaged-scholarship study reports a university–community initiative that applied science, technology and innovation (STI) to valorise livestock by-products, upgrade product standards, and strengthen smallholder livelihoods in Thailand’s southern border provinces (Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani) during fiscal year 2023, within a halal-tayyib (lawful-and-wholesome) wellness framing.

Methodology: A single, embedded case-study design (Yin, 2018; Stake, 1995) treats the fiscal-year-2023 programme as the case and ten participating community enterprises as embedded units. Led by the Technology Clinic of Princess of Naradhiwas University with partner universities, the programme combined participatory needs assessment, hands-on technology-transfer training, product and packaging development, food-safety (Thai FDA) and Halal certification, and domestic and cross-border market linkage under a zero-waste circular-economy logic. Programme documentation was triangulated and pattern-matched against the guiding framework.

Research findings: Sixteen value-added products were co-developed from the primary outputs and by-products of beef cattle, meat and dairy goats, and Betong and black-boned chicken—including gelatin, collagen and cow-skin snack from hide, sausage and soured beef from scrap, herbal-stewed meats, a goat-dairy line, and pelleted and liquid bio-fertiliser and vermicompost from manure. Representative FDA and Halal certifications were secured, and safe, wholesome products reached domestic fairs and Malaysian buyers.

Contributions: Framed by circular-economy, engaged-scholarship and halal-tayyib theory, the case advances a replicable, faith-sensitive model that couples zero-waste valorisation with product wholesomeness, consumer wellbeing and livelihood development at community scale, reducing pollution while widening market access. It extends by-product-valorisation scholarship to the smallholder setting and links halal certification to a broader wellness agenda for engaged agricultural scholarship in Muslim-majority border regions.

Keywords: halal-tayyib wellness, circular economy, livestock by-product valorisation, halal certification, engaged scholarship, southern border provinces of Thailand

A Future-Oriented Environmental Management Model for Muslim-Friendly Healthcare Services for Arab Patients in Thailand’s International Private Hospitals: An Ethnographic Delphi Futures Research Approach

Romyi Morhi, Vichit Rangpan and Saudi Maprasit
Email: romyi.m@yru.ac.th

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a future-oriented environmental management model for Muslim-friendly healthcare services for Arab patients in Thailand’s international private hospitals using the Ethnographic Delphi Futures Research (EDFR) approach.

This study employed a mixed qualitative-quantitative futures research design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and five-point rating scale questionnaires from 38 purposively selected experts, including healthcare executives, practitioners, Islamic scholars, Arab cultural specialists, and environmental management experts. Data were analyzed using content analysis, median, interquartile range, mean, and standard deviation.

The findings revealed four major components: (1) environmental quality management standards, (2) Muslim-friendly healthcare service quality, (3) hospital management quality enhancement, and (4) integration with Thailand’s Medical Hub policy. Expert evaluation indicated high appropriateness and practical applicability of the model.

This study contributes to healthcare management literature by integrating environmental sustainability, cultural competence, and Islamic healthcare principles into a comprehensive framework for Arab patient care. The proposed model provides strategic guidance for hospitals seeking to improve service quality, patient satisfaction, and international competitiveness.

Keywords: Environmental Management; Muslim-Friendly Healthcare; Arab Patients; EDFR

Muslim-Friendly Spa Services in the Halal Wellness Industry: Developing an Operational Framework for Halal Tourism in Malaysia

Norsyamlina Che Abdul Rahim1*, Siti Aishah Edros 2, Seri Syamsidatul Safrun Mohd Thani3, Amzari Abu Bakar4 and Che Norazizi Che Mastar2
Email: norsyamlina@umk.edu.my

Abstract

The rapid expansion of the global halal tourism industry has created an increasing demand for wellness services that align with Islamic values. Today's Muslim travelers seek holistic experiences that integrate physical well-being with spiritual and ethical considerations. Despite Malaysia’s strong position as a leading halal tourism destination, its spa and wellness sector remains relatively underdeveloped regarding structured, Muslim-friendly operational standards. Existing guidelines, such as MS 2610:2015 on Muslim-friendly hospitality services, focus primarily on general hotel operations and offer limited guidance for complex spa environments. These environments require highly specific operational considerations regarding privacy, therapist interaction, and product ingredients.

This paper proposes the development of a structured Muslim-Friendly Spa Operational (MFSO) framework to support the expansion of halal wellness tourism in Malaysia. The paper outlines key operational dimensions that must be integrated into modern spa services: gender privacy management, halal product integrity, ethical professionalism, spatial and facility design, and standardized service protocols. These elements serve as the core pillars of an operational framework that translates fundamental Islamic principles into practical spa management guidelines.

The proposed framework provides a rigorous conceptual reference for policymakers, tourism authorities, and wellness practitioners. Ultimately, this study contributes to strengthening Malaysia’s competitiveness as a global leader in halal tourism and premium halal wellness services.

Keywords: Halal tourism, Muslim-friendly spa, halal wellness industry, operational framework, Malaysia.

Beyond the Halal Plate and Prayer Mat: A Holistic Maqasid al-Shariah Framework for Halal Tourism Enhancement

Siti Hajar Salwa Ahmad Musadik
Email: ctsalwa@uum.edu.my
Islamic Business School (IBS), Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)

Abstract

Although Halal tourism is rapidly expanding on a global scale, there is conceptual confusion surrounding the industry. The Halal tourism industry tends to focus on the food and hospitality facilities that are certified Halal. This checklist is lacking in holism, as it does not take into account the overarching ethical and spiritual values in Islamic teachings. In this regard, the present concept paper presents a complete framework for Halal tourism based on the concepts of Maqasid al-Shariah.

This study has been conducted in an integrated manner by applying a qualitative conceptual analysis approach that incorporates all five of the elements of Maqasid al-Shariah into the Halal tourism ecosystem, namely preservation of faith, life, intellect, lineage, and property. This concept paper proposes a more comprehensive and authentic definition of Halal tourism based on the concept of Maqasid.

This approach changes the focus of the church from simply going through the motions of religion to a more values-led church, where social justice, ethics, and sustainability are key. Overall, this paper provides valuable theoretical and practical information for the stakeholders and policymakers who aim to raise the quality and integrity of Halal tourism services in the world.

Keywords: Halal Tourism, Maqasid al-Shariah, Holistic Approach, Industry Enhancement, Islamic Ethics.

The Optics of Halal: From Negative Western Narrative to Ethical Gold Standard

Arifah Khairrani Arsono, Mohd Abd Wahab Fatoni Mohd Balwi *, Asmuliadi Lubis
Email: fatoni@um.edu.my, ak.khairrani@gmail.com

Abstract

Objective: This article examines how halal is interpreted in Western secular markets, particularly in debates on halal meat, slaughter, animal welfare, and consumer transparency.

Methodology: The article uses a conceptual analysis of selected scholarly literature, regulatory evidence, and public debates. Signalling theory and legitimacy theory are used to explain how halal assurance is communicated and judged by different audiences.

Research findings: Halal certification may signal religious compliance, product integrity, and trust. However, the same label may be interpreted negatively when information about slaughter methods, welfare safeguards, traceability, and certification scope is unclear. In such cases, halal may be associated mainly with non-stun slaughter, cruelty, or religious exceptionalism. This can create public controversy even when halal requirements are met.

Contributions: The article develops a halal optics framework that links halal assurance, public signals, interpretation context, and outcomes of trust or controversy. It argues that halal certification should be supported by clear and verifiable information on welfare, traceability, audits, and slaughter methods. This can strengthen public confidence without weakening the religious basis of halal.

Keyword: halal assurance; Western secular markets; animal welfare; signalling theory; moral legitimacy; traceability

FROM OPERATIONAL COMPLIANCE TO STRATEGIC ACCOUNTABILITY: DEVELOPING AN INTEGRATED HALAL GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK IN MALAYSIA

Muhamad Fikri Aziz, Wan Maryam Jameelah Wan Alias*, Azizi Abu Bakar
Email: wan_maryam_j@cob.uum.edu.my

Abstract

Objective: This paper aims to reconceptualize halal governance in Malaysia from a certification and operational compliance approach towards an organization-wide governance system that incorporates strategic leadership, governance assurance, and operational implementation.

Methodology: This study adopts a conceptual approach by critically reviewing existing halal governance literature and integrating insights from Stewardship Theory and Maqasid al-Shariah to develop an Integrated Halal Governance Framework.

Research Findings: The analysis suggests that existing halal governance practices remain largely centered on operational mechanisms, particularly through Internal Halal Committees and Halal Executives, with limited involvement of strategic leadership. In response, this paper proposes a three-layer Integrated Halal Governance Framework consisting of strategic oversight, governance assurance, and operational implementation. The framework positions the Board of Directors as a key factor in safeguarding halal integrity, while Maqasid al-Shariah functions as an evaluative logic guiding governance practices across all organizational levels.

Contribution: This study contributes to the halal governance literature by extending the discussion beyond product and process compliance towards a broader organizational governance perspective. It provides a theoretical explanation for board-level responsibility through the integration of Stewardship Theory and Maqasid al-Shariah and offers a conceptual foundation for future empirical studies examining the relationship between governance structures, halal integrity, and organizational outcomes.

Keyword: Halal governance, Halal integrity, Maqasid al-Shariah, Organizational accountability

Mediation in Halal Disputes Cases from Consumer’s Perspective

Izzatul Najihah Binti Ghazali1, Mustafa ‘Afifi Ab Halim2 and Hendun Abd Rahman Shah3
Email: afifi@usim.edu.my

Abstract

This study aims to examine the mediation approach in relation to the actions taken by consumers when halal issues arise in food products. The problem addressed in this study stems from the relatively low levels of awareness, understanding, and acceptance of mediation as a method for resolving halal-related disputes among consumers, highlighting the need for a systematic and comprehensive research approach. Accordingly, the objectives of this study are to assess the level of public awareness, particularly among consumers, regarding mediation, and to examine consumers’ level of understanding and knowledge of mediation as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism. In addition, this study seeks to identify the extent to which mediation is used and accepted by consumers, as well as their perceptions of its effectiveness in resolving halal-related disputes.

This study adopts a mixed-method approach. Secondary data were obtained through library research, including statutes, academic articles, journals, newspapers, and magazines. To complement the secondary data, primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to consumers to gather insights into their awareness, acceptance and use of mediation.

The research findings indicate that consumers demonstrate a relatively high level of awareness of mediation and generally accept mediation as an effective method for resolving halal-related disputes.

Keywords: Alternative Dispute Resolution, consumers, mediation, halal disputes.

Regional Devotional Aesthetics and Islamic Heritage Tourism: Reframing Mughal Ornamentation at the Shahi Masjid Chiniot

Sabeen Fatimah Bhatti¹˒²
Email: sabeen.f.bhatti@gmail.com

Abstract

This paper examines the ornamental programme of the Shahi Masjid Chiniot in Punjab, Pakistan, as a regional reinterpretation of Mughal visual culture and evaluates its potential significance for Islamic heritage tourism. Although Mughal architectural scholarship and tourism narratives frequently concentrate on major imperial centres, comparatively less attention has been given to regional monuments where Mughal visual conventions were transformed through local materials, craftsmanship, and devotional practices. Drawing upon four field visits conducted between 2021 and 2023, the study applies qualitative visual, spatial, and iconological analysis to the mosque’s seven interior wall units, entrance spandrels, calligraphic frieze, ornamental arches, lotus crowns, painted plaster surfaces, and Sang-e-Abri elements.

The findings indicate that floral, vegetal, calligraphic, and architectural ornament is not distributed randomly. Repetition, variation, framing, material contrast, and increasing ornamental density toward the qibla and mihrab contribute to a clear devotional spatial hierarchy. The paper introduces the concept of regional devotional aesthetics to describe how Mughal-derived motifs and compositional principles were localised through Chinioti craftsmanship while reinforcing sacred direction, religious atmosphere, and regional cultural identity.

The study further argues that the mosque’s heritage-tourism potential lies not only in its historical age or visual attractiveness but also in its capacity to communicate Islamic artistic traditions, local craft knowledge, sacred spatial organisation, and living religious heritage. Because the mosque remains an active place of worship, tourism must remain subordinate to religious dignity, community use, and conservation requirements. The paper therefore proposes a responsible model based on documentation, motif-based interpretation, multilingual visitor information, digital access, trained community guides, controlled visitation, and conservation before promotion. By connecting Islamic art history with heritage-tourism studies, the research repositions the Shahi Masjid Chiniot as an important regional monument capable of supporting cultural education, respectful spiritual reflection, and sustainable Islamic heritage tourism.

Keywords: regional devotional aesthetics; Islamic heritage tourism; Mughal ornamentation; Shahi Masjid Chiniot; sacred spatial hierarchy; Chinioti craftsmanship

Expanding the Halal-Tayyib Paradigm through Qur’anic Water Ethics: Toward a Conceptual Framework for Halal Sustainability

Siti Aini Ameera Binti Muhammad Amri
Institut Sains Islam, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia

ABSTRACT

Contemporary halal sustainability discourse increasingly emphasises environmental stewardship and the development of green halal products. However, existing scholarship remains focused on consumer behaviour, compliance, governance, and policy, with limited engagement in Qur’an-based ethical frameworks that integrate halal with environmental responsibility. This gap is significant, as the Qur’anic worldview embeds moral principles that extend the concept of halal beyond legal permissibility.

This study aims to expand the halal-tayyib concept through the lens of Qur’anic water ethics and to propose a conceptual framework that positions sustainability as an intrinsic dimension of halal. Employing a qualitative research design, the study integrates thematic exegesis with semantic field analysis grounded in Izutsu’s Semantic Method Model. Selected Qur’anic concepts related to water, balance (mīzān), stewardship (khilāfah), and environmental corruption (fasād) are analysed to map their interrelationships and ethical implications.

The findings reveal that Qur’anic water ethics broadens the halal-tayyib paradigm toward a holistic ethical model rooted in moderation, ecological balance, and responsible interaction with natural resources. The analysis demonstrates that environmental responsibility is embedded within the Qur’anic worldview and should be recognised as a core component of halal sustainability.

Halal is positioned not merely as a legal category but as an ethical system that encompasses care for the natural environment. The study contributes to contemporary halal sustainability discourse by offering a Qur’an-based ethical foundation for environmentally responsible halal practices and advancing a conceptual model that supports the integration of sustainability within halal development.

Advancing Food Colorants: Halal Compliant Organic Alternatives to Cochineal

Moohamad Ropaning Sulong1,2 and Nurul Syazwani Binti Mohamad Khairuddin1

Abstract

Carmine is a natural red dye extracted from the cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus). The use of carmine has become controversial among Muslims due to different schools of thought, namely Maliki, Hanafi, Shafi’i and Hanbali. Brunei Darussalam, which adheres to the Shafi'i school of thought, has issued a fatwa that the use of carmine from cochineal in food colouring is haram. Hence, a study exploring potential of halal compliant organic alternatives for food colouring opt be conducted. Besides it also aims to assess Bruneian’s awareness, knowledge and understanding on carmine as a food colorant. The study employed a mixed-method approach including a total of 261 respondents for questionnaire as well as applied research to evaluate the effectiveness of beetroot, Chinese ixora and dragon fruit as organic colorant alternatives.

The study revealed that majority of respondents were neutral in their responses, indicating the need for wider education on the carmine halal status. This lack of clarity suggests that consumers are not fully aware of food colouring, especially those derived from animal sources. While for applied research, the study showed that the beetroot, Chinese ixora and dragon fruit display good pigmentation qualities as food colorant. Nonetheless, issues with stability and preservation must be addressed.

Hence, this study summarizes that advocating for organic-based alternatives that are halal-compliant is essential to address the concerns of Muslim consumers. For future research, it is suggested to investigate the commercial viability and establish education programs as initiatives in enhancing consumers’ awareness and knowledge on carmine.

Keywords: Carmine, Organic alternatives, Beetroot, Dragon Fruit, Chinese Ixora

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTION OF FROZEN COWHIDE AS A CLEAN HALAL FOOD INGREDIENT

Muhammad Fauzinizam Razali1, Muhammad Hafiz Hassan1*, Mohd Syakirin Rusdi1, Sareh Aiman Hilmi Abu Seman1, and Azkar Zahidi Ismail2
Email: mhafizhassan@usm.my

Abstract

Objective: This study develops an end-to-end processing framework for transforming halal-sourced bovine cowhide into a clean, collagen-based halal food ingredient. The work extends the existing halal-controlled upstream process toward a finished packaged product, with frozen cowhide proposed as the primary ready-to-cook product and retort processing as a future shelf-stable alternative.

Methodology: A two-stage processing route was established. Stage 1 comprises halal-source verification, incoming inspection, potable-water cleaning, enclosed Internet of Things (IoT)-monitored drying using Smart SolDry Home, preliminary packing and controlled transfer. Stage 2 comprises controlled singeing for hair removal, scraping, adhered-fat removal, three-stage washing, boiling until soft, hygienic cooling, slicing and final packaging. One-way hygienic zoning, batch traceability, sanitation control, temperature monitoring and halal control points were incorporated to support end-product certification readiness.

Research findings: Smart SolDry Home achieved approximately 65% cowhide weight reduction within 30 days compared with about 20% under conventional open-air drying, reducing practical drying duration from two to three months to approximately one month. The proposed downstream process converts the dried hide into a cleaner, dehaired, defatted and softened collagen-rich food ingredient suitable for frozen packaging.

Contributions: The study integrates controlled drying, hygienic downstream processing and halal assurance into a complete cowhide food-production chain. The framework provides a practical pathway for extending halal certification from the initial processing stage to the final packaged product while improving cleanliness, traceability, processing consistency, consumer convenience and commercialization potential.

Keyword: frozen cowhide, halal food ingredient, collagen-based food, Smart SolDry Home, halal assurance

Circular Economy And Halal Integrity In Malaysia's Meat Industry: Ramly Food Processing's By-Product Valorization

Zina Arabeche1, Fatima Zohra Aouati 2

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate how circular economy techniques in the Malaysian meat sector might enhance halal integrity through by-product valorization strategies. It examines how resource efficiency and waste valorization support halal governance and the values of Halalan Tayyiban while promoting sustainable production using Ramly Food Processing as a case study.

Based on secondary data analysis, the study uses a qualitative case study methodology. Information about the Malaysian halal meat industry and Ramly Food Processing was gathered from scholarly works, business periodicals, industry reports, and halal governance frameworks.

The findings indicate that by-product valorization can transform meat processing residues into value-added products, thereby reducing waste and improving resource utilization. Circular economy practices enhance environmental sustainability while maintaining halal integrity through traceability and controlled processing. The study also demonstrates a strong alignment between circular economy principles and the Halalan Tayyiban concept, which promotes ethical, safe, and environmentally responsible food production.

This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the integration of sustainability and halal economy principles. It provides a conceptual framework linking circular economy strategies with halal value preservation and offers practical insights for policymakers, researchers, and halal food manufacturers seeking to develop more sustainable and halal-compliant production systems.

Keyword: Circular Economy; Halal Integrity; Halal Economy; Meat Industry; By-Product Valorization; Sustainability; Ramly Food Processing; Malaysia; Sustainable Food Systems; Halal Supply Chain

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN HALAL EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF TVET AT KOLEJ KOMUNITI.

Nagajothi, Nur Syamimi, and Huraiza
Email: nagajothi@kksik.edu.my, nursyamimi@kksik.edu.my, huraiza@kksik.edu.my

Abstract

Digital transformation has become a critical driver of innovation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), particularly in specialized fields such as halal education. In Malaysia, the growing halal industry demands a skilled workforce that is not only technically competent but also knowledgeable in halal standards, certification processes, and ethical practices.

Objective: This study examines the implementation of digital transformation in halal education through a case study of TVET programmes at Kolej Komuniti.

Methodology: Using a qualitative case study approach, data were gathered through document analysis, curriculum review, and observations of digital teaching and learning practices.

Research findings: The findings indicate that the integration of digital technologies such as learning management systems, multimedia instructional materials, online assessments, and virtual industry engagement has enhanced student engagement, improved accessibility to learning resources, and strengthened alignment between training outcomes and industry requirements. Despite these benefits, challenges related to digital infrastructure, digital literacy, and the need to preserve religious and cultural integrity in digital content remain evident. The study concludes that strategic digital transformation can significantly support the effectiveness of halal TVET education, provided that institutional support, capacity building, and industry collaboration are continuously strengthened.

Contributions: The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on digitalization in TVET and offer practical insights for policymakers and educators involved in halal education.

Keyword: Digital Transformation, TVET, Halal Eduvation

Ensuring Halal Integrity: Detection of Porcine DNA in Global Collagen and Gelatin-based Capsule Samples

Nazihah Ab Hamid1, Ruzanna Zainal1, Muhd Hafiz Kamarozaman1, Farah Najihah Binti Md Ismail1, Anis Awatiff Binti Azmi1, Nur Imanina Mohd Jaswary1, Nur 'Aina Najihah Binti Aznul Khairi1, Ku Anisya Yasmin Binti Ku Sharifazman1, Nurul Alia Atiqah binti Che Zahari1, Aida Elyana Binti Noorasid1, Mohd Syarafuddin Abdul Shukor2, Nina Naquiah Ahmad Nizar3, Nurkhurul Ain Zakaria1, Siti Aimi Sarah Zainal Abidin2,4*
Email: sitiami@uitm.edu.my

Abstract

Objective: As the global Halal wellness market expands, verifying the integrity of specialized supplements—particularly those utilizing collagen and gelatin-based delivery systems— presents a significant analytical challenge. Manufacturing processes often lead to severe DNA fragmentation and a potential contamination risk, complicating standard porcine detection. Halvec addresses this issue by evaluating the efficacy of a highly sensitive dye based real-time PCR (qPCR) assay targeting a short 73bp mitochondrial DNA amplicon, specifically optimized for detection in highly degraded matrices.

Methodology: This study presents a comprehensive analysis of 701 samples sourced from a diverse portfolio of local and international clients, including manufacturers of undenatured type 2 collagen, hard capsules, and softgel delivery systems. To ensure the highest level of consumer protection and regulatory compliance, the assay was validated to reach a Limit of Detection (LOD) of 0.01%. Crucially, the methodology was designed to demonstrate zero false positives across all validation trials, ensuring that manufacturers can rely on the accuracy of their Halal claims without the risk of over-detection.

Research findings: The study identified 94 positive detections of porcine DNA (13.4% positivity rate) among the 701 samples tested. These findings highlight a significant vulnerability in the global supplement supply chain and underscore the importance of high-sensitivity laboratory intervention.

Contributions: Halvec’s analytical workflow provides a robust, standardized solution for both local and international stakeholders to ensure compliance with global Halal standards. By integrating specialized extraction protocols with 73bp qPCR technology, Halvec offers a reliable tool to foster consumer trust and strengthen the sanctity of the Halal healthcare and wellness ecosystem.

AI-Assisted Machine Vision System for Animal Skin Classification in Halal Leather Authentication

Nur Sofia Zaidi1,2, Yazid Yaakob1,2*, Nor Nadiha Mohd Zaki¹, Nur Aina’a Mardhia Zainuddin¹, Syariena Arshad¹, Atthafiya Zahrah¹
Email: yazidakob@upm.edu.my

Abstract

The authentication of leather products has become increasingly important due to concerns regarding the inadvertent use of non-halal materials, particularly pigskin, within the global leather supply chain. Existing identification methods, such as visual inspection and DNA analysis, often require specialized expertise, are time-consuming, and may involve destructive sample preparation. Therefore, there is a growing need for rapid, reliable, and non-destructive authentication techniques.

This study proposes an automated machine vision system combined with deep learning for the classification and identification of animal skin types relevant to halal leather authentication. Samples of pig, cow, goat, sheep, buffalo, and synthetic (PVC) leather were captured using a Canon EOS R100 camera integrated with a controlled imaging setup. Surface morphological features, including pore arrangement, density, and texture characteristics, were analyzed using the YOLOv2 deep learning algorithm implemented in MATLAB.

The developed model successfully differentiated between various skin types by learning distinctive surface microstructural patterns, demonstrating high classification accuracy and robustness. The proposed approach offers a rapid, cost-effective, and non-destructive alternative to conventional authentication techniques while minimizing the need for extensive laboratory analysis. The findings highlight the potential of integrating machine vision and artificial intelligence technologies into halal assurance systems, supporting improved traceability, product verification, and consumer confidence in halal-certified leather products.

Keywords: Halal authentication, leather identification, machine vision, deep learning, YOLOv2, artificial intelligence, pigskin detection, halal assurance

Color-Based Binary Classification of Pork in Beef with SMOTE

Nor Nadiha Mohd Zaki, Fatin Fitriah Nordin, Amalia Mohd Hashim
Halal Products Research Institute, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

Pork adulteration in beef poses a serious challenge for halal food authentication. Color imaging and machine learning offer rapid, non-destructive solutions, but class imbalance often hinders reliable detection of the halal class. To develop a binary classification pipeline that identifies pork adulteration in beef using color features, while addressing the inherent class imbalance (1:6 halal-haram class ratio) with SMOTE (Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique). A dataset of 350 images of fresh minced meat (50 pure beef, 300 beef adulterated with pork at 1–75%) was used. A fixed region of interest was cropped, and color histograms (RGB, HSV, LAB) were extracted. To prevent data leakage, a group-based split was applied. SMOTE was applied only to the training set to balance the classes, followed by a Random Forest classifier. The model achieved a halal recall of 0.89, precision of 0.89, and overall accuracy of 0.97 on the held-out test set. Only one pure beef image was misclassified as adulterated (false negative) and one adulterated as pure beef (false positive). SMOTE successfully enabled the classifier to handle the 1:6 imbalance without overfitting.

Keywords: Pork adulteration detection, color imaging, SMOTE, Random Forest, halal authentication

A Study of Migraine Patients' Perceptions Toward the Use of a Crude Andrographis paniculata Herbal Facial Mask

Hala Bilsultan1*, Phatsasi Laojeenwong1, Surasak Limsuwan1
Email: hala.b@psu.ac.th

Abstract

Background: Migraine is a common neurological disorder with complex pathophysiology understood through both Thai traditional and modern medicine. Cooling therapies and herbal treatments such as Andrographis paniculata are used for symptom relief.

Objective: To compare patient satisfaction between a peel-off face mask containing crude Andrographis paniculata extract and a conventional cooling mask for migraine symptom relief, integrating traditional and modern medical principles.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial enrolled 21 migraine patients randomly assigned to the Andrographis paniculata mask group (n = 11) or placebo cooling mask group (n = 10). Satisfaction was measured before and after intervention via a validated questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale across four domains: general characteristics, properties, practical use, and overall satisfaction.

Results: Both groups reported high satisfaction with no significant differences observed. For total satisfaction, the mean difference (MD) between groups at post-test was -0.04 (95% CI: -0.15 to 0.07; p = 0.398). Individual domains showed similar non-significant differences: general characteristics MD = -0.06 (95% CI: -0.22 to 0.10; p = 0.339), properties MD = 0.01 (95% CI: -0.21 to 0.22; p = 0.973), and overall satisfaction MD = 0.03 (95% CI: -0.13 to 0.19; p = 0.331). The cooling sensation was reportedly enhanced by the viscous Andrographis paniculata extract, consistent with traditional herbal effects and modern vasoconstriction mechanisms.

Conclusion: The Andrographis paniculata peel-off mask demonstrated comparable patient satisfaction to conventional cooling masks, supporting its potential as a practical and integrative self-care option for migraine management. Future studies should assess objective physiological outcomes to confirm its clinical efficacy.

Keywords: Andrographis paniculata, Peel-off face mask, Ocular migraine

Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Stingless Bee Propolis Residue: Chemical Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity

Panitpicha Patchimsiri1
Email: pear_10770@hotmail.com

Abstract

Objective: Stingless bee propolis residue generated after honey harvesting remains an underutilized biomass despite being rich in biologically active compounds. This study investigated microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) as a rapid extraction technique for recovering bioactive constituents from Tetragonula pagdeni propolis residue. The chemical composition of the extract was characterized by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS), and its antimicrobial potential was evaluated.

Methodology: Propolis residue was extracted with 95% ethanol using microwave-assisted extraction at a solid-to-solvent ratio of 1:10 (w/v). Extraction was performed for 5 min, followed by filtration and solvent removal under reduced pressure. The resulting extract was analyzed using UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS operating in both positive and negative electrospray ionization modes to identify major phytochemicals. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against selected pathogenic bacteria.

Research findings: Microwave-assisted extraction successfully reduced extraction time from conventional methods requiring approximately 12–24 h to only 5 min while maintaining recovery of bioactive constituents. UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis identified several pharmacologically important compounds, including rutin, galangin derivatives, chrysin derivatives, pinobanksin derivatives, ferulic acid derivatives, caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, coumaric acid derivatives, and luteolin/apigenin aglycones. These compounds belong predominantly to phenolic acid and flavonoid classes, which are widely recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities.

Contributions: This study demonstrates that microwave-assisted extraction provides a rapid and efficient approach for valorizing stingless bee propolis residue while preserving major bioactive constituents. The findings support the utilization of Tetragonula pagdeni propolis residue as a sustainable natural source of antimicrobial compounds for future pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and veterinary applications.

Keyword: Tetragonula pagdeni, Propolis residue, Microwave-assisted extraction, UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, Phenolic compounds, Flavonoids