Toronto. Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) has landed itself in controversy in Canada after announcing plans to serve halal-certified chicken at most of its restaurants in Ontario and stop serving haram (prohibited by Islamic law) pork products. American fast-food chain KFC aims to give customers more diverse and inclusive options by following Islamic dietary laws. According to reports, the change began in May and covered all KFC stores in the province of Ontario, home to Canada’s largest Muslim community. Now, Canadian Hindus, Sikhs have put KFC on notice over halal meat.
Hindu Forum Canada has sent a notice asking KFC to reverse the decision citing that it is against cruelty, the spirit of the law and the principles of inclusion. They are not opposed to the idea of serving halal meat, but only argue that the restaurant should also serve non-halal meat to meet the needs of people belonging to religions where halal is prohibited.
“For nearly 71 years, KFC has operated restaurants in Ontario without any requirement that each of its restaurants serve only halal chicken,” the notice said. “We believe this sudden change is inconsistent with the spirit of the law, the principle of inclusiveness, or your own corporate brand, which is said to stand for integrity and hard work.”