Genetic, Zoonotic, and Neurobiological Perspectives on Pork Consumption: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

The prohibition of pork consumption in Islamic dietary law has long been understood within theological and ethical frameworks. However, recent developments in biomedical sciences, genomics, and epidemiology provide additional insights into the potential health implications associated with pork consumption. This study aims to synthesize current scientific evidence on the genetic, zoonotic, metabolic, and neurological impacts associated with pork consumption using a systematic literature review and meta-analysis approach. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases covering studies published between 2000 and 2024. The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines for systematic reviews. Studies examining zoonotic pathogens, genetic compatibility between pigs and humans, metabolic consequences of pork consumption, and neurological implications were included. A total of 1,248 articles were identified, of which 36 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Random-effects models were applied to estimate pooled effect sizes. The pooled risk ratio (RR) for zoonotic infection associated with pork exposure was 1.42 (95% CI: 1.18–1.71), while the pooled RR for metabolic disease risk was 1.28 (95% CI: 1.10–1.50). Moderate heterogeneity was observed (I² = 51%). The findings suggest that pork consumption may be associated with increased risks related to zoonotic infection, inflammatory metabolic processes, and neurological complications in certain contexts. These findings provide a biomedical perspective that complements existing dietary regulations and highlights the importance of food safety and preventive health strategies