Farah Ayuni Shafie, an associate professor with Universiti Teknologi Mara, said gelatine derived from tannery waste often has quality inconsistencies, making it challenging to meet the stringent standards required for food and pharmaceutical applications.
“Tannery waste can contain heavy metals and other harmful substances that pose serious health risks if ingested,” she told FMT.
Tannery waste refers to by-products generated during the leather tanning process, including animal hides and skins, chemical residues, and other organic materials.
Farah was commenting on concerns surrounding the use of non-bovine materials, including donkey hide, in Pakistan’s gelatine production, which was reported by the BBC in February.
The report centred on the traceability and quality of gelatine imported from Pakistan particularly, after several countries banned the slaughter of donkeys for its hide. This ban subsequently led to potential issues in the gelatine supply chain, including the use of lower-grade materials.
Pakistan is the leading source of gelatine imports for Malaysia, with imports increasing significantly over the past three years due to growing demand. However, in 2022, several gelatine plants in Pakistan failed to obtain the halal certifications after inspections revealed problems with cleanliness, cross-contamination, record-keeping, and failure to comply with halal requirements.
Farah said poor storage management and a lack of microbiological control in gelatine production further increased health risks.
“Contamination with harmful bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli, and staphylococcus aureus, as well as fungi producing mycotoxins, can lead to foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, and respiratory problems,” she said.
She said cross-contamination could introduce allergens and non-halal substances into the gelatine, which not only affected food safety, but violated halal requirements.
“Improper storage can degrade gelatine quality, making it unfit for consumption and reducing its functional properties,” she said.
Farah recommended that regulatory bodies standardise criteria and implement detailed guidelines for the halal certification processes.
“Regular inspections and comprehensive audits by third-party auditors can ensure strict compliance. Strict penalties for non-compliance and public disclosure of violations can deter fraudulent practices,” she said.