13th Sep 2010 - 00:00
Abstract
GateGourmet, the Swiss-based aviator catering company behind airline food on some of the world's major airlines, has announced plans to make the majority of its meals halal - arguing that the move makes sense financially.
The company, which supplies to 14 carriers and services all long-haul British Airways flights from Heathrow, wants to standardise production to drive down costs and boost profits, according to media reports. The Mail Online reveals how the caterer has been tempted into the switch by lucrative business available from Middle Eastern and Asian airlines. The article states that while most carriers currently offer a halal option, these meals need to be prepared, stored and transported separately if they are to comply with Muslim dietary rules - making them more expensive. The caterer does not have the option of removing halal meals from the menu entirely because of its role serving airlines across the globe and bosses are thought to believe it makes best financial sense to ensure most meals meet with strict Islamic rules. Guy Dubois, of GateGroup has been quoted as saying it was his "aim to make the company's large hub operations halal compliant" but a spokesperson for British Airways has reportedly revealed that the airline had no plans to change its current menus or halal meal process. Dubois added that the plans were not driven by religious or social considerations but simply cost, stating: "If I produce everything according to halal standards, I will reduce complexity and increase cost effectiveness." The Mail Online adds that the catering firm is about to open a dedicated halal kitchen at Heathrow – where meals are prepared for 14 airlines including BA. The specialist kitchen will be smaller than the main kitchen that already exists at the airport, but could be the first stage in a gradual switch. The move follows the sharp growth of carriers such as Emirates, of Dubai, and Etihad, of Abu Dhabi, which require all meals to be halal. But GateGourmet caters for numerous airlines from non-Muslim countries, which would also be affected by the changes. Compelling customers to eat food prepared in accordance with the Muslim faith could be controversial in some countries, including the UK.