Ruling on Using Subsidized Baladi Bread for Feeding Livestock: Dar al-Ifta Clarifies
Dar al-Ifta of Egypt explains that using subsidized baladi bread intended for human consumption to feed livestock or birds is forbidden if it deprives those in need, emphasizing human rights over animals.
Dar al-Ifta received a question regarding the use of subsidized baladi bread, suitable for human consumption, as feed for livestock and birds, especially when some people lack enough to feed themselves or their children.
Dar al-Ifta explained that God honored humans and made the universe subservient to them, including livestock and poultry, as stated in the Quran: ﴿And We have certainly honored the children of Adam﴾ [Al-Isra:70] and ﴿And He subjected for you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth, all from Him﴾ [Al-Jathiya:13].
The ruling emphasized that human needs take precedence over animals, and it is forbidden for anyone to seize subsidized bread to feed animals if it deprives the needy, likening it to sacrificing human sustenance for animals out of greed or profit.
Dar al-Ifta cited the example of the Ash‘aris, companions of the Prophet ﷺ, who divided their limited food equally, highlighting the Islamic duty to distribute food justly.
Conclusion:
Using subsidized baladi bread intended for human consumption to feed livestock or birds is forbidden if it deprives the needy, and human rights must be prioritized over animal feeding.
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