JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A halal grocery store in Jacksonville is attempting to add a meat processing facility to its Beach Boulevard property, marking its second attempt in less than a year to do so, following a similar request that was withdrawn in April 2024.
According to our partners at the Jacksonville Daily Record, Apna Bazar plans to expand its current operation with a 30,000-square-foot addition and build a 23,800-square-foot freestanding structure to the east of the shopping center.
Meat processing for the facility’s on-site butchery would take place in the new structure, which would include a warehouse, storage space and retail storefronts, the JDR reported.
To complete its vision, Apna Bazar requested a land-use amendment and rezoning, which was expected to go before the Jacksonville Planning Commission on Aug. 21, but was deferred. A new date has yet to be scheduled.
According to JDR, the halal grocer’s request for rezoning is the organization’s second since April 2024. At that time, ownership withdrew a previous request for a zoning exception for land in Northwest Jacksonville from the Planning Commission after area residents voiced disapproval of the development.
A site plan for Apna Bazar shows a 30,000-square-foot addition and a 23,800-square-foot free-standing building that would include the animal processing facility. (Credit: Jacksonville Daily Record) (Jacksonville Daily Record)
Last year’s request led to dozens of residents turning out for a public hearing on the project, where they raised objections about noise, smells, and traffic the processing center would bring, along with its potential effect on property values.
“Halal” is an Arabic word meaning “allowed” or “lawful,” according to the American Halal Foundation (AHA).
Halal meats refer to animals that have been slaughtered in accordance with Islamic law, which requires that the animal be healthy at the time of slaughter and that the slaughter be completed by a Muslim.
“This process is designed to be as humane as possible, minimizing the animal’s suffering,” AHA said. “The act of draining the blood is essential because Islam prohibits the consumption of blood. The entire procedure is carried out with cleanliness and respect, ensuring that the meat meets the ethical standards set by Islamic law.”
Copyright 2025 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.