Europe Halal Food Market Trends & Summary 2025–2033 – vocal.media

Report on the European Halal Food Market: Growth, Drivers, and Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1.0 Executive Summary

The European Halal food market is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving from a niche segment into a mainstream economic force. This report analyzes the market’s projected growth, key drivers, and inherent challenges, with a specific focus on its alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The market’s expansion is not only an indicator of economic growth (SDG 8) but also reflects a broader shift towards ethical and sustainable consumption patterns (SDG 12), improved health and well-being (SDG 3), and greater social inclusion (SDG 10).

2.0 Market Projections and Economic Contribution (SDG 8)

The Halal food sector represents a substantial opportunity for sustainable economic growth and decent work in Europe, directly contributing to SDG 8.

2.1 Financial Outlook

• The market is projected to grow from US$ 490.99 billion in 2024 to US$ 1,096.61 billion by 2033.
• This represents a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.34% from 2025 to 2033, indicating a doubling of market value in under a decade.

2.2 Key Economic Drivers

1. Demographic Expansion: Europe’s Muslim population is projected to increase from 44.1 million to 58.2 million by 2030, creating a robust consumer base.
2. Mainstream Retail Integration: Major retailers such as Carrefour, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s are incorporating Halal product lines, expanding market access and creating jobs in logistics and retail.
3. E-commerce and Digital Innovation: The rise of online grocery platforms and delivery apps catering to the Halal market fosters entrepreneurship and technological advancement.

3.0 Contribution to Responsible Consumption and Health (SDG 12 & SDG 3)

The principles of Halal production are increasingly aligned with global demands for responsible and sustainable food systems, supporting SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

3.1 Ethical and Sustainable Consumption

A growing number of non-Muslim consumers are choosing Halal products based on perceptions of:

• Ethical Animal Treatment: Adherence to humane slaughter practices resonates with consumer demand for ethical sourcing.
• Transparency and Traceability: Certification processes provide assurance of sourcing and production standards.
• Hygienic and Safe Production: Halal standards are associated with higher levels of cleanliness and food safety, contributing to public health.

3.2 Product Innovation for Health and Sustainability

The market is diversifying to meet modern consumer demands, further aligning with SDG 3 and SDG 12:

• Organic Halal foods
• Vegan and plant-based Halal alternatives
• Clean-label and non-GMO certified products

4.0 Fostering Inclusion and Strong Institutions (SDG 10 & SDG 16)

The development of the Halal market enhances social inclusion for Europe’s Muslim communities (SDG 10) while highlighting the need for robust and transparent governance structures (SDG 16).

4.1 Enhancing Social Inclusion

By providing accessible and diverse food options, the market caters to the specific dietary and cultural needs of a significant minority population. The young demographic profile, with two-thirds of European Muslims under 30, indicates a long-term trend towards integrating this consumer group into the mainstream economy.

4.2 Institutional Frameworks and Governance Challenges

Effective institutions are critical for sustainable market growth. While progress has been made, significant challenges remain.

4.2.1 National Progress

• France: Leads Europe with a market value of €5.5 billion and a developed certification infrastructure.
• United Kingdom: The Halal Monitoring Committee (HMC) provides a recognized certification standard, building consumer trust.
• Germany: Rising consumer demand is driving retailers to expand Halal offerings, though regulatory ambiguity persists.

4.2.2 Barriers to Institutional Strength (SDG 16)

1. Fragmented Certification: The lack of a unified European Halal standard creates confusion and trade inefficiencies, undermining institutional effectiveness.
2. Regulatory and Legal Hurdles: Restrictions on ritual slaughter in some EU nations present a conflict between state regulation and religious practice.
3. High Certification Costs: Financial barriers limit market access for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), hindering inclusive economic growth.

5.0 Conclusion and Future Outlook

The European Halal food market’s trajectory is intrinsically linked to core principles of sustainable development. Its growth supports economic prosperity (SDG 8), promotes responsible and healthy consumption (SDG 12, SDG 3), and fosters social inclusion (SDG 10). However, realizing its full potential requires a concerted effort to build stronger, unified, and equitable institutions (SDG 16) to overcome existing challenges in certification and regulation. The future of this market is not merely economic; it is a key component of a more sustainable, ethical, and inclusive European food system.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • The article extensively discusses the economic aspects of the halal food market, highlighting it as a significant and rapidly growing sector. It provides specific financial projections, such as the market value doubling in less than a decade, which directly relates to economic growth and market development.

2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

   • The article emphasizes a shift in consumer behavior towards more ethical and sustainable choices. It states that non-Muslims are choosing halal food because they associate it with “ethical animal treatment,” “transparency in sourcing,” and “higher food safety standards.” This reflects a move towards responsible consumption patterns and production systems that are clean and transparent.

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • The article focuses on the growing Muslim population in Europe as a key driver of the halal market. It discusses their increasing economic influence (“Generation M”) and the market’s response to their specific dietary and cultural needs. This addresses the economic inclusion and empowerment of a specific religious and cultural group. However, it also notes challenges like “political and cultural debates,” which touch upon inequalities and social resistance.

4. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • The development of “halal certification infrastructure” and “regulatory standardization,” particularly in France, is a key theme. The article also points to innovation in the sector, with the emergence of new products like “Organic halal foods,” “Vegan halal options,” and “Plant-based halal meat alternatives.” The expansion of e-commerce and online delivery platforms represents an upgrade in technological infrastructure for the industry.

5. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • The article links halal food to health and safety, noting that consumers associate it with “clean, hygiene-focused production” and “higher food safety standards.” This perception of halal as a “wholesome and premium food image” connects directly to consumer well-being and the demand for safe, healthy food options.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation. The article points to this through its discussion of “Diverse Product Innovation” (e.g., vegan halal, organic options) and the expansion of e-commerce and mobile apps, which represent technological upgrading in the food distribution sector.
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities… and encourage the formalization and growth of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises. The article implies this target by highlighting the challenge of “High Certification Costs” for “small businesses and local manufacturers,” suggesting that policies to reduce these costs would support their growth.

2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

   • Target 12.1: Implement the 10-Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns. The shift in consumer behavior, where both Muslims and non-Muslims choose halal for ethical and transparency reasons, is a clear example of changing consumption patterns towards more sustainable options.
   • Target 12.8: By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles. The role of halal certification systems, such as the Halal Monitoring Committee (HMC), is to provide consumers with trusted information about production methods, aligning with this target. The article notes that “94% prefer certified halal products,” showing the importance of this information.

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of… religion. The growth of the halal market, driven by Europe’s Muslim population, is a direct example of their increasing economic inclusion and influence. Mainstream retailers like Tesco and Carrefour adopting halal lines further demonstrates this integration into the broader economy.

4. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure… to support economic development. The article discusses the development of “halal certification infrastructure” in countries like France and the UK, which is essential for the market’s reliability and growth. The challenge of “Fragmented Certification Systems” indicates that this infrastructure is still developing.

5. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from… contamination. While not mentioning illness statistics, the article’s emphasis on “clean, hygiene-focused production” and “higher food safety standards” as key attributes of halal food directly contributes to the goal of providing safer food and preventing foodborne illnesses.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. For SDG 8 (Economic Growth):

   • Market Value and Growth Rate: The article explicitly states the projected market growth from “US$ 490.99 billion in 2024 to US$ 1,096.61 billion by 2033” and a “CAGR of 9.34%.”
   • National Market Size: The French halal market value is given as “€5.5 billion.”

2. For SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production):

   • Availability of Certified Products: The mention of major retailers like “Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Asda, and Morrisons” selling “certified halal lines” serves as an indicator of the adoption of sustainable production and labeling.
   • Consumer Preference for Certified Products: The survey finding that “94% [of German Muslims] prefer certified halal products over non-certified alternatives” is a direct indicator of consumer awareness and demand for information.

3. For SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities):

   • Demographic Data: The projection that “Europe’s Muslim population will rise from 44.1 million to 58.2 million” and will “represent 8% of Europe’s population by 2030” is an indicator of the demographic context for inclusion.
   • Mainstream Market Penetration: The adoption of halal products by mainstream supermarkets (“Carrefour, Lidl, Aldi”) is an indicator of the economic integration and inclusion of this consumer group.

4. For SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure):

   • Existence of Certification Bodies: The mention of the “Halal Monitoring Committee (HMC)” in the UK and France’s leadership in “halal certification infrastructure” are indicators of infrastructure development.
   • E-commerce Development: The launch of services like “GetHalal Group” for nationwide grocery delivery in Germany is an indicator of technological and logistical infrastructure improvement.
   • Product Innovation: The list of new product categories like “Organic halal foods” and “Plant-based halal meat alternatives” indicates innovation within the industry.

5. For SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being):

   • Consumer Perception of Safety: The association of halal with “higher food safety standards” and “clean, hygiene-focused production” is an implied indicator of its contribution to well-being.
   • Presence of Food Safety Standards: The existence of certification systems that enforce hygiene and safety standards is a proxy indicator for progress toward providing safer food.

4. Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: vocal.media