MIXUE apologises for 'concerning' garbage bags, clarifies halal status

Ice cream and tea brand MIXUE has apologised for the use of 'concerning' garbage bags at one of its outlets, sparking concerns over halal compliance. 

In its statement, MIXUE Malaysia said that the garbage bags were purchased through an online platform for use at one of its outlets, and that the packaging of the bags were labelled with "wording that could raise concerns". 

"Although the bags are only used for waste disposal and are not involved in food preparation, we take this issue very seriously," said MIXUE Malaysia. The statement did not describe the garbage bags and the concerning wording. 

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MIXUE Malaysia added that it has taken several actions to ensure cleanliness, quality and halal compliance at all of its outlets. This includes requesting the implementation of a cleaning process at the affected outlet to ensure cleanliness and full compliance with halal standards. 

The ice cream and tea brand also said it would discontinue the use of the garbage bags and will be reviewing its purchasing procedures. 

"MIXUE Malaysia would like to emphasise that all raw materials used in our products are from halal resources and possess valid halal certification," said the brand. 

"We deeply apologise again for any misunderstanding and thank you for your continued support and trust," it added. 

MIXUE Malaysia's apology and clarification of its halal status comes after KK Mart's ham and cheese sandwich caused a stir. The mart's ham and cheese sandwiches within the University Malaya campus were labelled with the halal logo. The outlet was shut down for an investigation into the sandwiches and the halal 'ham'. 

Sensitivity over ham and halal products were later heightened when comedian Harith Iskander made a post on Facebook poking fun at the incident. The comedian posted a photo of 'hamsap coffee' (wet and salty coffee), stating that he was confused with the use of the word 'ham' and that if the coffee was meant to be eaten or drunk. 

"I must make a police report because I am so weak, I have lost all ability to use logic. Who else is confused?" said Harith in his post. The backlash Harith received from social media users resulted in the cancellation of the comedian's upcoming show. Harith's family also became a victim of cyberbullying with users sending death threats to his wife and children. 

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