Bridging science and halal: creating a communication plan and materials for halal-compliant food products of the Department of Science and TechnologyIndustrial Technology Development Institute

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Halal science involves the systematic acquisition of knowledge through observation, experimentation, and practice to describe and explain natural phenomena involving halal practices. However, communicating this knowledge to the public through traditional scientific manuscripts can sometimes lead to confusion and misinterpretation, particularly among non-experts. To address this, a contextual model of disseminating information was employed to effectively convey the true meaning of halal to stakeholders involved in handling and manufacturing halal food. In this study, a science communication plan was prepared to raise awareness among food manufacturing industries in the Philippines (where almost 90% of the population are non-Muslims) on halal and cultural sensitivity and to encourage them to become halal-compliant. Various science communication materials, including rundown sheets for broadcast media, opinion pieces, editorial calendars, brochures, infographics, and elevator pitches, were developed specifically for halal-compliant food products developed by the Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI). These materials facilitated stakeholders' understanding of the importance of halal compliance and provided a comprehensive view of the Halal Assurance System. Overall, the initiatives taken in this study enhanced the amount of information that can be communicated to stakeholders, resulting in a better understanding of halal compliance and its importance in food manufacturing.