Here's a breakdown:
* Halal means "lawful" or "permitted" in Islam. It applies to food and drink, and also to other aspects of life like clothing and business practices.
* Fish is generally considered halal in Islam, as long as it has scales and fins. This is based on a verse in the Quran:
> *"He has made lawful for you the sea and what it brings forth, to seek His bounty... But He has forbidden you carrion, blood, the flesh of swine, and what has been invoked over other than Allah."* (Quran 5:96)
This means that:
* Fish with scales and fins are halal. This includes most commonly consumed fish like salmon, tuna, cod, etc.
* Shellfish (like crabs, lobsters, shrimp, and oysters) are not considered halal because they lack scales and fins.
Important Note: Muslims must also ensure the fish they eat is slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines (e.g., by a Muslim who recites a prayer).
Therefore, the idea that Muslims don't eat fish is inaccurate. It's important to be informed about specific Islamic dietary laws and consult reliable sources for accurate information.