Diversity of Flavours Under One Standard – Ceremonial Awarding of Halal Certificates in Zagreb

The first vegan restaurant with a Halal certificate, domestic non-alcoholic grape must, ćevapi and burgers made from freshwater fish, and raw, healthy sweets – this was just how diverse and inspiring today's ceremonial awarding of Halal certificates was, held at the Islamic Centre in Zagreb.

At the very beginning of the programme, those present were addressed by Mufti Academician Aziz ef. Hasanović, who emphasized the diversity when it comes to the halal standard. He pointed out that halal does not only cover food products, but represents an entire system of living based on responsibility and quality. Every production, he added, has its specifics, but all can equally be in line with high halal standards.
Following the introductory address, the ceremonial awarding took place.
Halal certificates were awarded by:
* Mufti Academician Aziz ef. Hasanović, President of the Meshihat of the Islamic Community in Croatia;
* Dr. sc. Mirza Šabić, President of the Management Board of the Centre; and
* Muhamed Mandžić, Manager of the Centre, under whose expert leadership and coordination the certification process was successfully completed.

We proudly present the new certificate holders:

Istar Agro d.o.o. from Vukovar produces attractive fish products – from fish burgers and ćevapi to "ribasice", using carp and silver carp from domestic farms and carefully combining fish with olive oil, Dalmatian spices and Baranja paprika. Their products under the Panonica brand have already won over customers across Croatia.

Sirova Hrana – Raw Sweets is known for its handmade raw cakes, pastries and sweets that are not thermally processed. Sirova Hrana uses exclusively selected organic ingredients and already has Bio and Vegan certificates, and is now also Halal certified.

BioMania Zagreb is a popular vegan and organic restaurant in Zagreb offering 100% plant-based, organic food – from main courses and creative plant-based burgers to seasonal bowls and vegan desserts, prepared from ingredients that come primarily from local and family producers. BioMania has also been recognized at the international level – it ranked among the top 10 best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the world according to TripAdvisor, thanks to excellent flavours and innovative plant-based cuisine. The restaurant is located at Tkalčićeva 65, Zagreb, and in a short time has become a favourite destination for lovers of healthy, tasty and ethical food.

OPG MD – Krešimir Čičković makes a special contribution to preserving traditional flavours and a natural approach to production. MD – mošt domaći is produced by cold pressing ripe grapes, preserving all the natural colours, aromas and nutritional properties of the fruit. This drink captivates all the senses – from the rich aroma to the full taste with the very first sip.

The programme moderator, Enisa Botonjić, thanked all the recipients for their effort and dedication and offered them sincere congratulations on their achievement. She pointed out that their results serve as an inspiration and confirm the importance of responsible and quality business in today's times.