Japan mulls menu for Muslims after detainee loses weight

NAGOYA supporters of foreign nationals incarcerated at immigration detention centers are calling for the authorities to review the food menu for Muslims after the case of a man who lost weight due to his lack of access to halal dishes.

The matter involves a detainee at the Nagoya Regional Immigration Services Bureau.

Senior officials at the bureau told The Asahi Shimbun that they are considering revamping the menu.

Akemi Mano, a resident of Tsuyama, Aichi Prefecture, who works to provide support for foreign nationals staying in Japan, said during a recent interview that he had lost 10 kilograms over two months.

The man, who is in his 30s, said he only ate rice and vegetables because he was unsure if the ingredients of other dishes served were permissible in accordance with his faith.

Since he was first held in the detention center, he complained about his lack of access to halal foods prepared according to Islamic principles.

Muslims are not allowed to consume pork or pork-related ingredients and alcohol. Other types of meat, such as chicken and beef, must be prepared in a certain way.

But exactly what foods are allowed to eat is different from region to region and ethnic group.

In late July, Mano asked for halal food to be served to Muslims at the detention center.

Immigration authorities acknowledged that the detention center does not serve halal food. They said they are taking alternative measures.

If detainees are unable to eat certain foods because of religious or health reasons, we provide meals using permitted ingredients, in place of pork and other prohibited items.

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan said the rules require that detainees be treated in accordance with the lifestyle of their home country.

There is no rule for the content of meals served at detention centers across the country.

The agency said no halal foods are served in detention centers for foreign nationals in Japan.