Is Tuna Halal?

The short answer

Tuna is halal. It is a fish, and the Quran makes the game of the sea lawful (5:96). Tuna has scales, so it is halal under the Shia scales rule as well.

Is canned tuna halal?

Yes, by its main ingredient. Canned tuna is tuna, water or oil, and salt, and some brands add vegetable broth. StarKist says its broth is made from vegetables, and that it currently uses potato, carrot or peas. Read the label for anything else added.

What about flavored tuna and tuna salad?

• Flavored tuna packets can contain seasonings, natural flavors or other additives. Most are fine, but read the label.
• Ready-made tuna salad contains mayonnaise and sometimes other ingredients. Mayonnaise is usually halal; check for anything else.
• Tuna melts add cheese, which can be made with animal rennet.

What about tuna at restaurants?

• Sushi and sashimi tuna is halal; check the rice seasoning, eel sauce and any mirin or sake.
• Seared tuna may be cooked with wine or sake glazes.

Common questions

Is StarKist tuna halal?

The tuna is halal. StarKist says the broth in some of its products is vegetable-based. Check each flavored product's label.

Is tuna in oil halal?

Yes. The oil is usually vegetable or olive oil.

Does tuna need to be slaughtered?

No. Fish do not need Islamic slaughter.

The bottom line

Tuna is halal in every school. Canned tuna is a simple halal choice; check flavored products and restaurant sauces.