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Is Tsikoudia Halal?

Tsikoudia (Cretan raki / grape pomace spirit) is an intoxicating distilled drink and is Haram.

Ruling

Haram

Evidence confidence
High

How we decide

Applies to
General ruling; confirm local labels, slaughter, and certification when relevant
Last reviewed
20 July 2026

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Evidence at a glance

Named sources used for this page. Open the full Sources block for notes and citation numbers.

Source Type Retrieved
Crete — Visit Greece Visit Greece Manufacturer / product 20 July 2026
Qur'an 5:90 Qur'an Islamic / scriptural 20 July 2026

Full Sources

Clear spirit poured in a glass (product-neutral)

Why this ruling

Opening answer: Tsikoudia is Haram—it is Cretan grape spirit (raki).[1][2]

Related: Wine, Crete hub.

How to verify

Check labels carefully for alternate names or derivatives linked to Tsikoudia, and choose clearly Halal or plant-based alternatives instead.

  • Do not drink
  • Skip spirit-cooked desserts
  • Choose soft drinks

Conditions for Halal

  • Any tsikoudia / Cretan raki → Haram
  • Food cooked in spirit → avoid

Frequently asked questions

Is tsikoudia Halal?
No—it is an intoxicating spirit.
Is Cretan raki different from Turkish rakı?
Both are alcoholic spirits—both Haram to drink.

Sources

Named Islamic, certifier, manufacturer, and regulatory sources used on this page. Inline markers like [1] jump here. Retrieval dates show when we last checked the live URL. Editorial methodology.

Islamic / scriptural

  1. Qur'an 5:90

    Qur'an

    Intoxicants.

    Retrieved: 20 July 2026

Manufacturer / product

  1. Crete — Visit Greece

    Visit Greece

    Tsikoudia as Cretan hospitality spirit—identity, not Halal.

    Retrieved: 20 July 2026

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