Our history
How we started as an organization
The origins of Halal Feed and Food Inspection Authority (HFFIA) date back to the early 1970s. During this period, the Federation of Muslim Organizations in the Netherlands (FEMON) was established with the aim of supporting Muslims and promoting mutual understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims.
Within this federation, Dutch Muslims worked together with Muslims of Asian and North African origin. The founder of HFFIA was closely involved in FEMON and acted as one of its spokespersons. This active role laid the foundation for a structured and widely supported approach to halal-related matters in the Netherlands and Europe.
A new step in the 1990s
With the support of various mosques and Muslim organizations, Halal Feed and Food Foundation (HFFF) was established in 1994. This marked an important step in the professionalization of halal certification. Building on this development, Halal Feed and Food Inspection Authority (HFFIA) was established in 1996, with a clear mission: to provide reliable, independent, and internationally recognized halal certification.
A globally representative Islamic framework
Muslims in Europe and beyond have diverse ethnic backgrounds and follow different Islamic schools of jurisprudence (Madhabs). Within Sunni Islam, four Madhabs are most widely recognized: Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanafi, and Hanbali. These schools of law form the foundation of Islamic jurisprudence and are followed by the majority of Muslims worldwide.
HFFIA today and in the future
Over the years, HFFIA has continued to develop within an ever-changing international halal market, without losing sight of its core values: expertise, integrity, and inclusivity. As part of this continued growth, HFFIA moved into a new office in Zoetermeer in March 2025, from where the organization continues to carry out its national and international activities.
Do you have any additional questions?
Would you like to learn more about the history, working methods, or services of HFFIA? Our team is happy to assist you. Please feel free to contact us for a personal conversation or additional information, we are happy to think along with you.
Direct contact
HFFIA has been the leading authority in halal certification for more than 40 years, under the supervision of Majlis Al-Ifta. Would you like to have your products certified according to the highest Islamic and technical regulations? Then contact us directly!
