Halaal refers to what is permissible or lawful according to Shariah or Islamic law. It is frequently applied to food and drinks. Muslims must ensure that all foods (particularly processed foods), as well as non-food items such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, are halaal. Frequently, these products contain animal by-products or other ingredients that are not permissible for Muslims to eat or use on their bodies. Foods which are not considered halaal for Muslims include blood and intoxicants such as alcoholic beverages. A Muslim who would otherwise starve to death is allowed to eat non-halaal food if there is no halaal food available. Doubtful things are to be avoided.
Basic determinants that render something Haram (Unlawful/Prohibited)
See the following link for more information on halaal matters: http://mjchalaaltrust.co.za/