Should I Delay Making Up Fasts Because I Mistakenly Consumed Gelatin?

Answered by Ustadha Shazia Ahmad

Question

I accidentally ate pork gelatine that was used in cream in a product of a bakery. I intended to start making up some missed fasts of Ramadan. But because of the relationship between food and worship, I am not sure if I am allowed to start. This insecurity is because of the 40-day notion that I have heard of in which the food is still nourishing the body and therefore still has an effect on the worship.

Answer

Thank you for your question. May Allah reward you for your sincerity and willingness to do what is right for the pleasure of Allah Most High.

Cream With Pork Gelatin

Please see the ruling here on consuming this cream:
What Is the Ruling of Cream Made From Pig Fat? How Does Impurity Transfer?

As you can see from the link, this cream has undergone a chemical transformation but is still best avoided, as scholars differ on the subject. As such, your consumption of this cream is not automatically a sin because of the transformation. In addition to this, you said that you consumed it mistakenly and not intentionally. As for someone who consumes what is strictly forbidden intentionally, see the ruling on his worship here:
Should I Stop Praying 40 Days After Eating Something Haram?

Worship

You may make up your fasts and not fear any ramifications on your worship. May Allah facilitate that you finish making them up.

May Allah give you the best of this world and the next.
[Ustadha] Shazia Ahmad
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani 

Ustadha Shazia Ahmad lived in Damascus, Syria for two years where she studied aqidah, fiqh, tajweed, tafsir, and Arabic. She then attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she completed her Masters in Arabic. Afterward, she moved to Amman, Jordan where she studied fiqh, Arabic, and other sciences. She later moved back to Mississauga, Canada, where she lives with her family.