Can I Work at an Establishment That Sells Haram Food?

Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Weltch

Question

Starbucks sells sandwiches with non-halal meats as a core part of its menu.

There is also a Starbucks location that serves alcohol. Is it permissible to work at a Starbucks?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate

Directly Assisting in Sin

The principle is that assisting others in sin is a sin. However, this does not apply to the one whose assistance is indirect. [Uthmani, Tafsil al-Kalam]

So if your job entails you preparing impermissible food or promoting its purchase or sale then it is impermissible. Allah, Most High says, “And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and transgression, and be in awe of Allah (for), verily, Allah is severe in penalty.” [Quran, 5:2]

Indirectly Assisting in Sin

If however, you are merely a cashier, who neither prepares nor promotes the impermissible this is not considered assisting in sin and is permissible. [Uthmani, Tafsil al-Kalam]

Applying Caution

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Leave that which causes you to doubt for that which does not” [Tirmidhi].

Even though indirect assistance is permissible, caution dictates that you should begin to search for another job. For instance, working at a restaurant that serves Halal products. If this is not possible, you should try your best to not assist directly in any sin.

Hope this clarifies matters for you
May Allah ease your affair
Allahu A‘lam

[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Yusuf Weltch is a graduate from Tarim; a student of Habib Umar and other luminaries; and authorized teachers of the Qur’an and the Islamic sciences.