Muslims do not eat pork or consume foods containing pork products based on religious dietary prohibitions outlined in Islamic law (Shariah) and teachings found in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. The prohibition is mentioned in several verses, including Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 173 and Surah Al-Nahl, verse 115.

Verse 173 of Surah Al-Baqarah states:
“Indeed, He has forbidden you carrion, and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to other than Allah , and [those animals] killed by strangling or by a violent blow or by a headlong fall or by the goring of horns, and those from which a wild animal has eaten, except what you [are able to] slaughter [before its death], and those which are sacrificed on stone altars, and [prohibited is] that you seek decision through divining arrows. That is grave disobedience.”

The consumption of pork is considered haram (forbidden) because it is seen as unclean or impure. This prohibition is reinforced by Hadiths (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), which clarify and reinforce the dietary rules in the Quran.

The rationale behind this prohibition includes both spiritual and hygienic considerations. Spiritually, it is believed that adhering to these dietary restrictions demonstrates submission to God’s commands and fosters discipline. Hygienically, pigs are considered scavengers and can consume a wide variety of foods, including decaying matter, which could pose health risks if their meat is consumed without proper preparation, especially in pre-refrigeration times.

Thus, abstaining from pork is a central practice of faith for Muslims, signifying obedience to Allah and reflecting the broader principles of cleanliness and wholesomeness that are emphasized in Islam.