Web Editor’s Note: This story was written for the MCOMM 3309 – News Editing & Reporting Class

One of WTAMU’s hidden secrets is the on-campus Meat Lab. The Meat Lab carries unique items such as Halal beef and lamb products for sale.

Halal refers to the Islamic customs that means the food is acceptable by their religious standards for consumption. It is similar to kosher foods in the Jewish faith.

For beef or lamb to be deemed a Halal product, certain steps must be taken during the slaughter process. For instance, a very sharp knife is used to make one swift cut. The body must be aligned with Qiblah, the direction faced during Muslim prayer. There are also restrictions in the Halal standards, for instance, pork is not acceptable for consumption. An animal that was not slaughtered in the name of Allah is not acceptable for eating.

The Meat Lab is one of the few facilities in the Texas panhandle certified to kill and sell Halal meat products. Assistant Professor of Agriculture Dr. Lal-Khan Almas oversees and performs the duties of a Halal kill. Dr. Almas is a devout Muslim ordained to perform such duties.

“We are very unique in our diversity in that we cater to many parts of the population. Not just Halal beef, but also do a lot for our Brazilian customers and their preferences,” Royce Kratz, an undergraduate meat lab employee, said.

Dr. Ty Lawrence is in charge of the undergraduate and graduate student-run Meat Lab. He does his best to ensure that the lab caters to customer demands, from carrying religious-specific items to trying new items to satisfy customers’ tastes.

“Our biggest drawback in a business sense is that we are not allowed to advertise,” said Lawrence. “We rely heavily on word of mouth, quality and availability of products.”

The Meat Lab is located in the northernmost part of the Bivins Nursing Learning Center.