Egyptian preacher Amr Khaled became the laughing stock of social media after appearing in a poultry company’s advert, where he linked eating from the brand to staying in good health and thus maintaining one’s piety through prayers.

The video began with Khaled's mini monologue about healthy eating during the holy month, before introducing the audience to chef Ascia Othman, who was standing behind a table lined up with Al-Watania Poultry products.

The preacher introduced Chef Ascia as a “developer of healthy meals that are good for spirituality,” before she enlightened consumers about the health benefits of using this particular brand of chicken.

“The soul will not increase in spirituality, unless your body and stomach are in good shape. And by trying Asica’s recipes, you will experience, in God’s will, an increase in spirituality as you perform night prayers and Taraweeh,” Khaled said.

The video concluded with Khaled giving viewers spiritual advice on how fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink.

“Your eyes, tongue and ears are abstaining from what is prohibited.”

Social media users bombarded Khaled and the campaign with criticism and jokes, noting that the advertisement was in very poor taste.

Al-Watania Poultry consequently deleted the advert from its Facebook page.