In the fast-paced world we live in, energy drinks have gained immense popularity as a quick and convenient way to boost energy levels and stay alert. However, for individuals who adhere to Islamic dietary guidelines, the question of halal compliance becomes paramount. This leads us to the critical inquiry: “Is Relentless Energy Drink Halal?”
Today, we will unravel the truth behind this widely consumed energy drink. Our exploration will encompass a detailed analysis of its ingredients and its alignment with halal principles. By carefully examining these aspects, we aim to provide you with the definitive answer you seek.
About Relentless Energy Drink
Relentless Energy Drink is a brand of energy drink that was created in February 2006 by The Coca-Cola Company. After a deal in 2014, the ownership of the Relentless brand was transferred to Monster Energy.
The drink is available in the United Kingdom, the United States, and New Zealand. It comes in a variety of flavors, including Origin (Original), Passion Punch, Cherry, Zero, Apple and Kiwi, Lemonade, Mango, and Sour Twist.
Relentless is an active sponsor of various teams and athletes across a range of sports in the UK and beyond. They have partnered with motorcycle teams like “Relentless Suzuki” by TAS Racing,” as well as supporting racers in events such as the Isle of Man TT. The company has also been a significant sponsor of music festivals like Reading and Leeds, Kerrang! Tour, and Boardmasters.
Additionally, Relentless sponsors university wakeboarding events and Formula Student teams. Their sponsorships extend to German rowing and football teams, including FC St. Pauli in Hamburg. Through these partnerships, Relentless continues to have a significant presence in the sports and entertainment industry.
About Halal and Haram in Food
Halal, the dietary regulations rooted in the Islamic faith, encompasses a diverse range of permissible foods while firmly delineating those forbidden based on divine revelation or the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him).
Adhering to these guidelines allows individuals to maintain their religious convictions, striking a harmonious balance between enjoying a varied diet and upholding prescribed standards for their dietary practices.
Allah stated:
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ كُلُوا۟ مِمَّا فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ حَلَـٰلًۭا طَيِّبًۭا وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا۟ خُطُوَٰتِ ٱلشَّيْطَـٰنِ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّۭ مُّبِينٌ
“O humanity! Eat from what is lawful and good on the earth and do not follow Satan’s footsteps. He is truly your sworn enemy.”
[Al-Baqarah/2:168]
When evaluating the haram status of foods, it is crucial to consider three critical factors.
1. Harmful substances
The divine scriptures include clear and indisputable statements from Allah:
وَأَنفِقُواْ فِي سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَلَا تُلۡقُواْ بِأَيۡدِيكُمۡ إِلَى ٱلتَّهۡلُكَةِ وَأَحۡسِنُوٓاْۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يُحِبُّ ٱلۡمُحۡسِنِينَ
“And spend of your substance in the cause of Allah, and make not your own hands contribute to (your) destruction; but do good; for Allah loves those who do good.
[Al-Baqarah/ 2 : 195]
This verse serves as a definite directive, advising against the consumption of anything that may bring harm, including foods that could negatively impact our well-being.
2. The definitive guidance or decree delivered by Allah or the Prophet
The Quran occupies a central and crucial role in Islamic teachings, offering extensive guidance on various aspects of Muslim life, which includes dietary regulations. Chapter 5, verse 3, of the Quran outlines a comprehensive list of food items that are forbidden for Muslims.
Observing these dietary restrictions holds great importance as it promotes physical well-being and nurtures spiritual fulfillment. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to deeply understand these dietary laws and faithfully abide by them in their daily lives.
حُرِّمَتْ عَلَيْكُمُ الْمَيْتَةُ وَالدَّمُ وَلَحْمُ الْخِنْزِيرِ وَمَا أُهِلَّ لِغَيْرِ اللَّهِ بِهِ وَالْمُنْخَنِقَةُ وَالْمَوْقُوذَةُ وَالْمُتَرَدِّيَةُ وَالنَّطِيحَةُ وَمَا أَكَلَ السَّبُعُ إِلَّا مَا ذَكَّيْتُمْ
“It is forbidden for you (to eat) carrion, blood, pork (an what) slaughtered in the name of other than Allah, those who are suffocated, those who are beaten, those who fall, those that are gored and are eaten by wild animals, except those that you could slaughter”
[Al-Maidah/ 5 : 3]
3. Intoxicating substances (khamr) or excessive alcohol intake
Islam incorporates specific dietary guidelines that prohibit the consumption of certain food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks like wine, beer, rum, and other liquors containing intoxicating substances, all categorized as haram or forbidden.
Additionally, any other drink surpassing the alcohol thresholds defined by Fatwa is deemed impermissible. Abiding by these dietary restrictions is a fundamental aspect of Islamic traditions, signifying a dedication to upholding purity and sanctity.
To ensure a meticulous assessment of the components found in Relentless Energy drink and their alignment with Islamic dietary principles, it is crucial to conduct a thorough examination. This comprehensive scrutiny of the ingredients is essential for comprehending their potential effects on our physical well-being and overall health. Let’s explore these constituents in-depth to gain a comprehensive understanding.
Relentless Energy Ingredients
Relentless Energy is made of these ingredients :
- Carbonated Water
- Sucrose
- Acid (Citric Acid)
- Flavour Enhancer (Erythritol)
- Taurine (0.4%)
- Acidity Regulator (Sodium Citrates)
- Preservatives (Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate)
- Colour (E150d)
- Caffeine (0.03%)
- Flavourings
- Sweetener (Sucralose)
- Vitamins (B3, B5, B6, B12)
- Guarana Seed Extract (0.005%).
Sucrose
Sucrose, also known as table sugar, is a natural sugar composed of equal parts glucose and fructose. It is found in various plants like fruits, vegetables, and nuts, as well as commercially produced from sugar cane and sugar beets. When consumed directly from whole foods, sucrose is considered a natural sugar, but it can also be added to processed foods as an added sugar.
During digestion, sucrose is broken down into glucose and fructose. Glucose is used by cells for energy, while fructose is metabolized in the liver. Glucose derived from sucrose serves as a vital source of energy for the body, enabling cells to perform their functions effectively.
However, it is essential to consume sucrose in moderation. While small amounts of sugar, including sucrose, can be part of a balanced diet, excessive intake of added sugars can lead to health issues such as weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a natural chemical commonly found in plants like coffee, tea, cola, cocoa, guarana, and yerba mate. It functions as a stimulant, impacting the central nervous system, heart, muscles, and blood pressure control centers.
Worldwide, caffeine is consumed for its ability to enhance alertness, reduce fatigue, and improve focus and concentration. When consumed in moderate amounts, it is generally considered safe and offers advantages such as improved attention and mental performance. However, individual sensitivity to caffeine can vary, and excessive intake may lead to side effects like insomnia, nervousness, and stomach discomfort.
Special caution is advised for pregnant women, athletes, and children, who are recommended to limit their caffeine intake. It’s important to avoid using caffeine as a substitute for sleep and to consume it in moderation. Overall, responsible use of caffeine can bring about beneficial effects.
Taurine
Taurine is a type of amino acid that is naturally found in the body and can also be obtained from certain foods and drinks. It is a natural substance that is already present in our bodies. It can also be found in foods like meat, fish, and dairy products.
It plays important roles in various bodily functions. It helps support the growth of nerves and is involved in the functioning of the heart and brain. It is also thought to have antioxidant properties, which means it can help protect our cells from damage.
Taurine is involved in the production of energy in our cells. It helps our bodies convert food into energy that we can use for activities and daily functions.
While taurine is found in many energy drinks, there is limited scientific evidence to support the specific benefits of taurine supplementation or its use in energy drinks. More research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Taurine is generally considered safe when consumed in normal amounts, such as through a balanced diet or in energy drinks. However, it is always important to follow recommended guidelines and not exceed the recommended intake.
Sucralose
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that is used as a sugar substitute in many foods and drinks. It is made from sugar that has been chemically modified to make it much sweeter than regular sugar. Here’s what you need to know about sucralose in plain language:
Sucralose is a no-calorie sweetener, which means it doesn’t add any calories to your diet. This makes it a popular choice for people who want to reduce their calorie intake.
Itis much sweeter than regular sugar, so only a small amount is needed to achieve the same level of sweetness.
Sucralose is considered safe for consumption by various health organizations, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, some studies have raised concerns about its long-term effects on health. More research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Sucralose is used in a variety of foods and drinks, including baked goods, soft drinks, and chewing gum. It is also used as a tabletop sweetener, often sold under the brand name Splenda.
While sucralose is considered safe for consumption, it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugars, including artificial sweeteners like sucralose, can contribute to health issues such as weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases.
Guarana Seed Extract
Guarana seed extract is a natural extract that is derived from the seeds of the guarana plant, which is native to the Amazon basin and especially common in Brazil. It is used as a dietary supplement and is often added to energy drinks, soft drinks, and chewing gum. It is known for its high caffeine content and is used to provide an energy boost.
Guarana seed extract has been studied for its potential health benefits, including stimulating, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, hypocholesterolemic, and anti-obesity effects. These effects are attributed to the high content of bioactive compounds found in guarana seeds, especially methylxanthines, and flavonoids.
It contains various chemicals, including caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine, which are similar to caffeine. It also contains other bioactive compounds like flavonoids and tannins.
Guarana seed extract is generally considered safe when consumed in moderation. However, consuming excessive amounts of guarana seed extract can cause side effects like insomnia, nervousness, stomach irritation, and vomiting.
Is Relentless Energy Drink Halal?
Relentless Energy drink is halal, meeting all the requirements for permissible consumption according to Islamic guidelines. You can consume it with peace of mind, as all the ingredients used are free from any animal-derived components. Rest assured, Relentless Energy has undergone extensive safety testing to ensure its appropriateness.
Always remember that, just like any other food or beverage, moderation is essential. By consuming Relentless Energy Drink within the recommended limits, you can minimize potential health risks while staying aligned with your dietary practices.
Find out more:
Is Mother Energy Drink Halal?
Is Tiger Energy Drink Halal?
Conclusion
While Relentless Energy drink consists of commonly used ingredients and has undergone extensive safety testing, it is crucial to recognize that the absence of halal certification may raise valid concerns for individuals seeking specifically certified halal products.
It is important to acknowledge that, despite the alignment of ingredients with halal guidelines, obtaining halal certification serves as a vital source of assurance for Muslims. Certification provides them with the confidence and peace of mind to enjoy their preferred beverages in a manner that upholds their religious beliefs and values, fostering a sense of inclusivity and respect.
Allahu a’lam (Allah knows best)
FAQ
Does Relentless Energy drink have alcohol?
No, Relentless Energy Drink does not contain alcohol. It is a non-alcoholic beverage that is marketed as an energy drink and is available in various flavors such as Origin (Original), Passion Punch, Cherry, Zero, Apple and Kiwi, Lemonade, Mango, and Sour Twist.
Is Relentless energy healthy?
Speaking about healthy in this energy drink, here are some factors to consider:
Pros:
- Relentless Energy Drink contains caffeine, taurine, and other ingredients that are known to provide an energy boost.
- Relentless Energy Drink does not contain any animal by-products and is considered vegan.
Cons:
- High in calories and sugar: A standard 500mL can of Relentless Energy Drink contains 108 calories and 24g of sugar. This makes it a high-calorie and high-sugar beverage that may contribute to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess.
- Health concerns: Excessive consumption of any energy drink, including Relentless, can result in a variety of adverse health effects, including insomnia, nervousness, stomach irritation, and vomiting. Consuming too much of it can also lead to an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems.
- Other artificial ingredients: Relentless Energy Drink contains other artificial ingredients, such as flavorings and preservatives, which may not be beneficial to one’s health.
Is Relentless energy drink carbonated?
Yes, Relentless energy drink is carbonated.
What does Relentless energy drink taste like?
Relentless Energy Drink comes in a variety of flavors, including original, tropical, cherry, mango, lemon ice, passion punch, apple kiwi, and sour twist. It has a tart, citrusy flavor. However, taste is subjective and can vary from person to person. It is best to try the drink for yourself to determine what it tastes like.
Where can I buy Relentless Energy Drink?
Relentless Energy Drink can be purchased from various retailers, both online and in-store. Here are some places where you can buy Relentless Energy Drink:
- Relentless Energy Drink website
- Big Rig Chrome Shop: Big Rig Chrome Shop offers Relentless Energy Drink in a 12-ounce container.
- Amazon
- Renegade Products USA
- Local stores
It is important to note that availability may vary depending on your location and the specific flavor you are looking for.
I spend three enriching years at Darul Ulum Islamic Boarding School. Under the guidance of knowledgeable scholars, I delved into various aspects of Islamic studies.
From clarifying dietary guidelines and financial transactions to addressing ethical dilemmas, my content will be tailored to serve as a reliable resource for Muslims striving to align their lives with Islamic principles.
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