Fatwa ID: 02127

Answered by Molana Eunus Ali

Question:

Assalamualaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakaatuhu

I have a question regarding probiotics which are of human strain origin, they can be derived from either human faeces, vaginal wall, or breastmilk. Are they halal? I have enclosed some links to explain further.

http://www.optibacprobiotics.co.uk/live-cultures/articles/what-are-human-strains

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bifidobacterium

http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2014/02/21/baby_poop_sausage_probiotics_from_human_feces_aren_t_as_gross_as_they_sound.html

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Probiotic

http://islam.stackexchange.com/questions/20325/are-human-strain-probiotics-halal

Jazakallahu Khairan

Wassalam

Answer:

Firstly PROBIOTICS are living microorganism (usually bacteria) which when administered in adequate amounts confers a health benefit on the host (human or animal). Often used for medicinal reasons, especially for the intestines.[1]

Generally speaking it is impermissible to derive medicinal benefit from any part of the human body.[2]

Probiotics which are sourced from impure or harams substances will not be permissible for normal use.[3]

Probiotics derived from breast milk for medicinal reasons will be permissible. However if there is no genuine need for it, it will need to be avoided.[4]

If there is an eminent danger to one’s life then medicine containing haram and impure substance will become permissible to use provided the following five conditions are met:

1. There be a state of extreme necessity, that is, one's life is indanger.
2. Other halal and lawful medicine does not work, or is not available.
3. It should be normally certain that the disease will be cured by such medicine.[5]
4. Enjoying the use of the medicine should not be the aim.
5. It should not be used any more than it is needed.[6]

Only Allah knows best

Written by Molana Eunus Ali

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham