Integrating Mitochondrial 12S rRNA Sequencing and Bioinformatics for Halal Authentication: A review

J.  Jani; M. Azizi  Suhaili; C.L.S.  Lin; S.  Mandrinos

doi:10.18502/jfqhc.12.4.20403

J. Jani Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia
M. Azizi Suhaili Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia
C.L.S. Lin Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, 88400 Kota Kinabalu Sabah, Malaysia
S. Mandrinos School of Business Swinburne, University of Technology, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jfqhc.12.4.20403

Keywords: Certification, Mitochondria, Bioinformatics, Sequence Analysis, DNA

Abstract

This study proposed a molecular framework to ensure compliance with Islamic dietary laws, aligning with the rapidly expanding global halal market projected to reach USD 3 trillion by 2027. The approach integrated mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA sequencing with bioinformatics tools using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Third-Generation Sequencing (TGS) technologies to facilitate accurate species identification, DNA barcoding, and meet origin authentication. The 12S ribosomal RNA gene provides high precision for species verification due to its conserved yet variable sequence regions. A bioinformatics pipeline incorporating Mothur and QIIME2 was developed to analyse sequencing outputs and validate species Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs). This pipeline enhanced traceability and ensured compliance with halal regulatory standards. By detecting even trace residues of non-halal substances, the method strengthens food safety, prevents cross-contamination, and increases consumer trust. The significance of these molecular techniques is in ensuring the safety of food and preventing spoilage. By detecting residues of non-halal substances, this approach addressed significant concerns related to cross-contamination and labelling inaccuracies, enhancing transparency and strengthening consumer trust. Analysing halal certification practices as per industry traditions and international regulatory bodies, as well as the thought-provoking shift to align high-end technologies and foreign experts requires careful harmonisation. This study also focused on factors contributing to that harmonisation. To assess the possible future of halal verification, this review presented a prospective, amalgamating modern science with religious justice to achieve a functional balance and preserve the reliability of halal-validated products. These innovations enable higher levels of precision, transparency, and sustainability, which foster consumer trust and reinvigorate the global marketplace.