Q: I’m a part of the Sunni (Hanafi) beliefs and I’ve seen a lot of conflicting information regarding certain water creatures namely: shrimp, prawn, scallops, lobster, calamari, especially scallops and lobster.

I have found a few fatwas concerning positions on this, but again they’re conflicting and I wasn’t sure what schools they were from. I worry because it doesn’t seem as if the Qu’ran mentions specifics on sea creatures, but in the old scriptures such as the Torah it is specific that everything without scales is forbidden.

So, sir If you’d please, tell me if these sea creatures are permitted, and also source(s) for these in either in the Qu’ran or hadiths.

Thank you
Time: Sunday October 9, 2011 at 11:43 pm

A: It is best to stay away from prawns and shrimp, since doubt has been attributed to such foods. However, if the choice is between meat that you are unaware as it relates to its slaughtering and being halal, then in such a case scholars have given an allowance for shrimp.

Hanafees are divided on the matter of shrimp and prawns. When two opinions exist and starvation is not the concern, best to stay away from that which creates doubt.

Shawafees are allowed to eat shrimp without much hesitancy as compared to ahnaf.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.