Amphibious crustaceans

Did you know that crayfish is not halal?

For those in the dark, crayfish—known also as crawfish, crawdads, yabbies, mudbugs, carmels, spoondogs, and sometimes even mistaken for lobsters—are freshwater shellfish that look like little lobsters, to which they are closely related.

Although crayfish are of the crustacean family, most (if not all) of them have an amphibious nature. Hence making it haram (forbidden) for consumption by a Muslim.

How I learnt of this fact is this: a few years ago, I was an Account Executive who serviced IKEA. Every year, IKEA holds a Swedish carnival where they sell all sorts of Swedish goodies, a special crayfish savoury included.

Apparently, a patron informed them of the little-known non-halal nature of crayfish. The people at IKEA checked with the local Islamic bodies, and what resulted was the "Non-Halal" sign that accompanied their Swedish crayfish specialty in all parties held after.

But then again... Perhaps, just like crabs**, not all crayfish are amphibious crustaceans.

Anybody can help verify this?

In any case, remember the general rule: if even the tiniest shadow of a doubt exists, don't eat it!

**yep, not all crabs are edible by Muslims. The big black crabs—ones that can be found still alive and clawing at the supermarket—are one of the few that are non-halal. So, the next time you’re thinking of devouring them delicious “fatty crabs,” be sure to check on the type of crab used! Also, be cautious of the sauce as most of the time it would contain lard  :/