A new halal-certified cola, called "Natakassam Cola," has been launched in France, sparking controversy and discriminatory comments on social media. The product, produced by a company based in Reims, features a distinctive bottle design with moucharabieh motifs and is made with water from Soultzmatt. The cola has been available in major retailers and restaurants since July 26.

The launch of Natakassam Cola has been met with a wave of islamophobic comments on social media, with some individuals expressing disdain for the product's halal certification. Some have gone as far as to call it "camel urine" or express shame that it is produced in Alsace. The company's decision to donate 10% of the product's sales to social causes in the Maghreb region has also been criticized.

The Natakassam company, which translates to "we share," aims to use its profits to support social causes in Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. The company's foundation claims to be "100% apolitical" and focused on achieving "general interest" goals. This approach has been likened to the Islamic concept of Zakat, which involves charitable giving.

The controversy surrounding Natakassam Cola has raised concerns about growing Islamophobia in France. Many have interpreted the backlash against the product as a manifestation of hatred towards Muslim communities. Despite the controversy, the company has not issued a statement.

The Natakassam Cola product has been praised for its unique approach to social responsibility. By donating a portion of its sales to social causes, the company aims to make a positive impact in the Maghreb region. However, the controversy surrounding the product has overshadowed its charitable goals.

The launch of Natakassam Cola has also sparked a wider debate about diversity and inclusion in France. Some have argued that the product's halal certification and charitable goals are a positive step towards greater diversity and representation. Others have expressed concerns about the potential for increased polarization.

As the controversy surrounding Natakassam Cola continues, the company's future in the French market remains uncertain. While some have called for a boycott of the product, others have expressed support for the company's charitable goals and commitment to social responsibility.

Key points

  • The launch of Natakassam Cola has sparked controversy and discriminatory comments in France due to its halal certification and charitable goals.
  • The company's decision to donate 10% of its sales to social causes in the Maghreb region has been met with criticism and islamophobic comments.
  • The controversy has raised concerns about growing Islamophobia in France and the potential for increased polarization.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.