Islam is very comprehensive religion and teaches Muslims ways of life from every aspect. Eating of Muslims is also a matter of worship like any other act of life. Muslims are guided in eating and each other act of life through the teachings of Quran, Sunnah and way of life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Islam suggests lots of rules for Muslims while eating and they have to follow these rules in their daily life. In this article we will discuss some of important eating habits of Muslims.

Supplication: Like any other act of Muslims, they start eating with the name of Allah called Bismillah. It is necessary for Muslims to start their eating by saying:

“O Allah! Bless the food you have bestowed upon us and protect us from the torment of hell. In the name of Allah we start.”

Muslims end their meal with the name of Allah and show their gratitude to Allah for his blessings on them.


No criticism on food: As Muslims consider everything blessing of Allah and never criticize any food. It is against the eating rules and principles of Islam and forbidden by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Leaving food is considered better that you don’t like rather than criticize it in the eating rules of Islam.

Eating Less: It is recommended in the light of Quran and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to eat less food on each meal. Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Nothing is worse than a person who fills his stomach. It should be enough for the son of Adam to have a few bites to satisfy his hunger. If he wishes more, it should be: One-third for his food, one-third for his liquids, and one-third for his breath.”

Tirmidhi & Ibn Majah

Eating together: As Islam is religion of brotherhood and love, it is suggested to eat together. Muslims like to eat with their family and enjoy their worries. This eating habit bring harmony and understanding among people of different thinking and they feel comfortable with each other.

Sharing: Sharing is another important rule of Muslim eating habits. Muslims feel pleasure to share their food with their fellows. This point is also emphasized by holy prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Moderation: Moderation is also emphasized for Muslims while eating. God has created all the blessings for man and they should not waste them. Muslims are advised to avoid extremes and to choose a moderate course in all his affairs, including his eating habits.

Eating slowly: Eating slowly is another factor of eating habits of Muslims. In this way extra consumption of food can be avoided and all deserving people can get their share from food. As medical science recommends that chewing food is good for health, eating slowly can results in chewing food in better way and it is also good for stomach.