In a remarkable turn of events, an Egyptian newspaper published a fatwa on September 11, 1951, that deemed both Coca-Cola and Pepsi permissible under Islamic law. The ruling came from mufti Hasanayn al-Makhluf, who addressed a swirling controversy fueled by public rumors. These rumors suggested that when viewed in a mirror, the Coca-Cola logo appeared to spell out a provocative phrase in Arabic.
Seeking clarity on the matter, the Egyptian Department of Fatwas reached out to the Ministry of Public Health for a thorough examination of the beverages. On August 25, 1951, the Ministry confirmed that both sodas contained no narcotics, alcohol, or pepsin, substances that would violate Islamic dietary laws. Such findings were crucial since narcotics and alcohol are strictly prohibited in Islam, and pepsin is derived from pig stomachs, which are not allowed under Sharia law.
The Ministry's analysis revealed that the drinks posed no health risks either, containing no harmful microbes. Consequently, the Department of Fatwas concluded that the beverages could be consumed without concern.
Mufti Hasanayn al-Makhluf elaborated on the fatwa by explaining that all foods and drinks are generally considered permissible unless proven otherwise. If someone is unaware of the composition of a food or drink, it is allowed until its nature can be clarified.
This fatwa not only cleared Coca-Cola and Pepsi for consumption but also highlighted the intersection of popular culture and religious interpretation. What began as a mere rumor led to a significant religious ruling that continues to be a curious footnote in the history of beverage consumption.
