The Ethical Side of Qurbani: Welfare, Hygiene, and Dignity in Distribution

We are now in the official season of sacrifice.

Sacrificing in obedience of the Creator and for the sake of His creations.

Islamic Qurbani holds great significance in Islam. Performed while commemorating the traditions of the Prophet Ibrahim عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ and our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Qurbani is a beautiful reminder of our submission, obedience and devotion for Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى

But beyond the rituals of choosing a great goat or cow or just ticking off from our list of religious obligations, have we ever wondered what number of challenges and complexities are associated with Qurbani? From animal welfare and waste to dignity in distribution-it's time to revive the true spirit of Qurbani: giving what we love for Allah’s sake, while ensuring the process stays ethical, kind, and meaningful for people and the planet.

What Does Ethical Qurbani Truly Mean?

Across the world, countless animals are sacrificed during Eid al-Adha, but true ethics lies in the compassionate treatment of animals before and after the slaughter. All animals must be treated with kindness and proper care which includes access to clean water, nutritious food and suitable living conditions.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Verily, Allah has prescribed ihsan (excellence) in everything. If you slaughter, then slaughter well. Let one of you sharpen his blade and spare suffering to the animal.”
 (Muslim)

The Role of Hygiene in Ethical Qurbani

Moreover, hygiene and quality control are extremely important to the practice of Ethical Qurbani. As Muslims, we are taught:

“Cleanliness is half of faith.”
 (Sahih Muslim)

This hadith extends to every part of Qurbani- from how the animal is bought- whether it is healthy, free from disease-to how it’s kept, fed to how the meat is packaged and delivered. Alhamdulillah, at Penny Appeal, we have been delivering your generous Qurbani donations far and wide through proper inspection and certification, while guaranteeing that the Qurbani meat is of the highest quality.

Distributing Qurbani Meat with Care and Compassion

Moreover, once the sacrifice has been made, it’s crucial to know how Qurbani is distributed. As per the Qurbani rules in Islam, the meat is distributed in three equal parts: one for yourself, one for family and friends and the third but importantly, for the poor and needy ones.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“Whoever relieves a believer’s distress... Allah will relieve his distress on the Day of Resurrection.”
 (Tirmidhi)

Many of those who receive Qurbani meat live with constant scarcity, let us not forget the emotional weight of charity and ensure protecting their dignity while showing our compassion. We’re encouraged to uphold the spirit of social justice through generosity and empathy.

The Importance of Ethical Qurbani in Crisis Zones

In Palestine, Yemen, Sudan, Syria and refugee camps across the globe, the stakes of vulnerability due to war, famine, poverty and displacement, are even higher this year. Qurbani meat is their only taste of proper, good quality nutrition and it isn’t just charity- it's a lifesaving aid that needs to be delivered with empathy, care and responsibility.

How Penny Appeal Ensures Ethical Qurbani

At Penny Appeal, we take the ethical side of Qurbani very seriously. That’s why:

·       We source healthy animals from trusted local farmers, supporting communities.

·       We follow strict hygiene and halal standards.

·       We package and distribute meat respectfully and discreetly.

·       We train our teams on safeguarding, compassion, and cultural sensitivity.

This Eid, Let’s Go Beyond the Ritual.

 Give your Qurbani the ethical way today.