Maharashtra-based Gokul Milk Union has clarified that its halal certification was obtained in 2018 solely for export purposes and does not impact milk procurement or processing practices for domestic consumers. The clarification came amid controversy and social media discussions questioning the dairy cooperative’s halal certification status.
Gokul officials stated that the certification was required to meet regulatory and market requirements for exporting dairy products to certain international markets where halal compliance is mandatory. The cooperative emphasized that the certification process applies mainly to export documentation, ingredient compliance and packaging standards for specific overseas buyers.
According to reports, Gokul also stated that the certification does not alter the composition, quality or manufacturing process of milk and dairy products sold in the domestic Indian market. The issue has triggered wider debate around halal certification practices within India’s food and dairy industries, especially among exporters targeting Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian markets.
Industry experts noted that several Indian dairy companies obtain halal certification to access export opportunities in countries with mandatory halal import requirements. Observers said the controversy reflects increasing public scrutiny around food labeling, certification standards and export-oriented compliance practices within India’s dairy and food processing sectors. (hindustantimes.com)
Dairynews7x7 28 May, 2026 Read full story here