In recognition of its philanthropic duty to society, Al Islami, the region’s most preferred brand of halal foods, in collaboration with Al Wasl Hospital and the Ministry of Health, organized a successful blood donation drive at the company’s Head Office in Dubai Investment Park.
Lifestyle issues affecting the existence and well-being of our civil society, spurred Al Islami to embark upon a drive for a social and humanitarian cause. The joint campaign received an overwhelming response, with numerous employees donating blood for thalassemic children in the UAE.
Thalassemia, inherent in our demographics, is a genetic blood disorder, whereby the body’s ability to produce red blood cells (haemoglobin) is inhibited. Marriages between close biological kin may result in spouses sharing common ancestral genes. Consequently, genetic medical conditions such as Thalassemia, are widespread in the region; with children in the UAE suffering from this disorder too. Beta Thalassemia Major sufferers require regular blood transfusions in order to survive.
The UAE Government is tackling this social issue by enforcing a pre-nuptial Thalassemia test prior to a couple’s marriage. Based on these findings, the frequency for blood donations is therefore critical to meet the demand for Thalassemia Major, in addition to a hospital’s routine requirements.
Mr. Saleh Abdullah Lootah, CEO of Al Islami, stated, “Until recent medical advances, life expectancy of children suffering from Thalassemia was very low. With regular blood transfusions, children can now live normal lives. Our pro-active approach of contributing towards a genuine need is simple, yet effective.”
For the benefit of families and communities where one or more detrimental recessive genes are segregating, it is vital that greater efforts are invested in establishing multi-disciplinary surveys to estimate the extent of the problem, accompanied by community-based counselling programmes.
About Al Islami Foods
Originally established as a co-operative, ‘CO-OP ISLAMI’ in 1981, to satisfy the growing demand for genuine halal foods in the Arab world, AL ISLAMI FOODS was formed as a result of continual efforts in the early seventies, when Hajj Saeed Bin Ahmad Lootah instituted the Dubai Co-operative Society. From frozen chicken to mutton, beef, seafood, vegetable and dairy products; Al Islami Foods has gained immense coverage as a leading provider of quality halal foods within the GCC and beyond. Latest market foray includes Iran and Jordan.
In 1991, the Dubai Co-operative Society's efforts culminated in the establishment of ‘CO-OP ISLAMI’ meat processing plant at the Jebel Ali Free Trade Zone. This plant is considered a recognizable breakthrough, as it was the sole manufacturer of a variety of food products under the ’CO-OP ISLAMI’ name, after being produced outside the country on its behalf.
The company employs advanced international technologies in its operations, to offer fresh and healthy products. Halal foods have gained popularity for the hygienic standards of food production, as well as the health benefits to consumers. With the recent launch of a range of fresh sandwiches available at petrol stations, award-winning (Most Creative Marketing Campaign, 2006 & Best Food Manufacturer in the GCC, 2006), Al Islami is undoubtedly a quality benchmark trusted by consumers across the Pan Arab World.
