Muslim Butcher in Spain Sparks Controversy by Selling Pork Alongside Halal Meat

Living in Bilbao, Rachid does not regret making this decision. "I live here, I have been adopted by people from here, I learned here and I want to earn my living this way," he declares to Radio Nervión. According to him, religion does not forbid selling pork. "There is no ayah or surah that forbids selling pork in countries where it is consumed. Everyone has their own book and everyone knows what they’re doing," explains the butcher.

After several unsuccessful experiences with halal butcher shops, the father decided to draw inspiration from the Carnicería Simón where he works: "I’m going to follow the way this butcher shop has been managed for over 60 years. I want to give the same treatment, the same flavor, the same product." Thus, Rachid offers ham, sliced chorizo, marinated ribs, and other Bilbao specialties. "I consider myself a very good pork cutter, even if I’m not Christian," he jokes.

The butcher of Moroccan origin is facing strong criticism after his decision to sell pork. "I’m always criticized, but I don’t pay attention. I have children and I need to work. Maybe I’m criticized because I’m doing well," he said. For Rachid, the most important thing is to adapt to his environment: "If I want to look for halal customers, I have to go to my country."

He adds: "Of course, there are people who, out of respect, will leave the shop if they see it’s for Muslims. We’re not going to worry about that. It’s as if I went to Morocco and put a Spanish badge on... people wouldn’t come." Rachid is not complaining in this new activity. He is accumulating positive reviews on Google. "The first one to be happy is me. I am happy," he rejoices.