The Rise of Islamic Services of America (ISA): 1975 to 2025
In 1975, a vision was born that would change the landscape of Halal certification in the United States. Islamic Services of America (ISA) began with a clear mission: to ensure the availability of Halal products in North America while adhering to the highest Islamic standards. Over the past five decades, ISA transformed from a humble beginning as the ‘North American Pioneer’ in Halal certification to a globally recognized full service Halal provider by shaping the industry’s growth, influencing consumer choices, and supporting international trade.
The Beginning: 1975 – A Vision Takes Shape
Founded in 1975 by William (Bill) Aossey Jr., ISA grew from a vision to assist community functions such as educational materials, family support, working with local colleges and universities for the acceptance of the influx of foreign students and local Muslim community activities. In the late 70s and early 80s came the global need for a USA based Halal verification and certification service program. When global demand for Halal-certified U.S. exports surged, founder Bill Aossey adapted his knowledge of food certifications, in consultation with Muslim colleagues, to launch North America’s first Halal certification body. In those early years, ISA focused on local communities by building trust through word-of-mouth and personal relationships. Halal was not a household term, and the market was small - but ISA was determined to make a difference.
Driven by integrity, ISA became more than a certifier—it became a bridge between American producers and global Halal markets. ISA, acting as an intermediary, benefited U.S restaurant chains like Pizza Hut, McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s, KFC, etc., which at that time were expanding franchises into the Middle East and Southeast Asia during the early 1980s.
Expansion and Recognition: 1990s – Early 2000s
By the 1990s, the rise of Islamic communities in the U.S., coupled with an increasing demand for Halal products, pushed the organization to expand its reach. More businesses sought Halal certification to cater to the growing domestic Muslim population. ISA’s commitment to ensuring authentic Halal verification made it a trusted partner for restaurants, manufacturers, and Halal consumers alike. This period marked significant growth for ISA, as it expanded beyond the food industry into dairy, bakery, flavors, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other consumable & non-consumable goods; ensuring that the principles of Halal extended across all aspects of daily life. As global demand for Halal products accelerated during the later phase of this period, ISA stood ready to lead with its diverse, globally minded team to adapt to the nuances of international Halal standards. ISA continued to demonstrate a commitment to integrity, innovation, and service.
ISA’s International Impact: 2010s – The Globalization of Halal
As ISA continued to build a powerful reputation in North America, it turned its attention to the global market. The organization forged international partnerships, particularly in regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe. These collaborations allowed ISA to expand its influence and work with companies seeking Halal certification in various markets worldwide.
As a founding member of the World Halal Food Council since 2011, ISA is globally recognized & accredited by major Halal authorities from all over the world including JAKIM (Malaysia), BPJPH (Indonesia), MUIS (Singapore), GAC (Gulf countries), CICOT (Thailand), and many more. With worldwide recognition, products that are accredited by ISA can now access the growing Halal market in more than 70 countries.
By acquiring Halal Montreal Certification (HMCA) in 2018, ISA expanded its North American footprint and, extended services to clients from small startups to multinational companies. This ongoing growth allowed ISA's standards, expertise, and customer service to continue to set the standard in the Halal industry. In the 2020s, ISA’s vision went beyond North American boundaries, as it sought to establish itself as a leading certifier on the global stage. This shift was marked by the signing of significant agreements and letters of intent (LOIs) with governments and businesses in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and the UAE. These partnerships facilitated cross-border trade in Halal products, with ISA playing a pivotal role in shaping the Halal economy.
ISA in 2025: A Legacy of Excellence
With nearly half a century of experience, ISA stands as a symbol of trust and reliability. As ISA President Jalel Aossey says, “50 years is just the beginning,”. This reflects ISA’s reach extending far beyond the food industry, influencing various sectors and helping to establish a global standard for Halal certification. On the 17th of July 2025, ISA celebrated its 50th anniversary celebration in Cedar Rapids, Iowa – where ISA also acknowledged its former Vice President Timothy Hyatt’s recent retirement.
“Special thanks to our company President Jalel Aossey, for inviting me with my wife, Keltoum, to the ISA anniversary event and kind acknowledgement of my retirement! It was wonderful to see my longtime colleagues, friends, and HR staff and to meet the newest members of the team. Everyone brings so much talent and youthful energy to our Halal certification journey which bodes well while embarking on the next historical chapter for many more years to come,” said Timothy Hyatt, former ISA Vice President.
For over 50 years, ISA has been a guardian of Halal integrity and has evolved into the premier Halal certification and auditing body in North America and stands among the world’s most respected and recognized Halal certification organizations. As we move forward, ISA remains at the forefront of the Halal movement, continuously evolving to meet the needs of a growing and diverse market. Its journey from 1975 to 2025 is a testament to the power of vision, commitment, and community, and it will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the Halal industry in the years to come. With a proven history, strong values, and unmatched service, ISA is committed to its mission, and is poised to expand its legacy far into the future by proudly standing as “Your Guide to the Global Halal Market.”
Islamic Services of America (ISA) is a leading USA based Halal certification and auditing organization serving companies, the community, and the Halal certification industry for over 50 years. Contact ISA at isa@isahalal.com or send your initial inquiry to Halal certify your products at https://isahalal.com/contact or visit the ISA website for more information at https://isahalal.com/
Writer credit: Mehnaz Afrin
Marketing Manager, ISA
Pictures: ISA’s internal library