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FSSAI Registration | FSSAI Licence

Under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 establishes authority known as FSSAI (stands for Food Safety and Standard Authority of India); this act consolidates various acts & orders that have to handle food-related issues in various Ministries

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Understanding FSSAI License in India: The Key to a Safe and Successful Food Business

The world of food businesses in India is a dynamic landscape that's as diverse as the country itself. Whether you're interested in launching a small, local catering company or setting up a large, nationwide restaurant chain, there's one common denominator that binds all food-related enterprises in the country — the FSSAI License.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the governing body that sets the standards for food businesses across the nation. Holding an FSSAI license isn't just an obligation; it's an assurance of quality and safety to your customers. It serves as a benchmark of your commitment to offering safe and hygienic food products, underpinning your endeavor to establish a reputable brand in India's burgeoning food industry.

Every food business operator (FBO), regardless of their size or the nature of their business, must go through the FSSAI registration process. This includes everyone from the neighborhood baker operating out of their home kitchen to multinational fast-food chains. It's a legal requirement, but more importantly, it's a step towards building trust with your customers and stakeholders.

The process of acquiring an FSSAI license in India might seem daunting at first. It involves careful preparation, gathering a series of documents, and following through on the application process. But don't worry! Our comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, shedding light on everything from the basic requirements to the minute details that are easy to overlook.

There are three main types of FSSAI licenses that you can apply for, depending on the size and nature of your business. These are the Basic FSSAI registration/license, the State License, and the Central License. Each type caters to a different category of FBOs, and the requirements and the application process differ accordingly.

The Basic FSSAI registration is designed for small-scale food businesses. If you're just starting and your annual turnover does not exceed Rs. 12 Lakhs, this is the license for you. On the other hand, if your food business has a larger operation and has an annual turnover between Rs. 12 Lakhs and Rs. 20 Crores, you'll need the State License. The Central License is for large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 Crores.

Obtaining an FSSAI license in India is not as complicated as it may sound. The process has been streamlined and can be completed online, either through the official FSSAI website or the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal. It's crucial, however, to keep track of the necessary documents for FSSAI license applications. The list can seem long and somewhat overwhelming, but remember, each document serves a purpose and adds to the credibility of your food business.

As we delve deeper into the world of FSSAI licensing in India, we'll explore the intricacies of the application process, break down the list of documents required for each license type, and provide you with the latest updates on FSSAI regulations. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the FSSAI registration process smoothly and successfully.

In the ever-evolving landscape of India's food industry, staying updated with the latest FSSAI license updates is crucial. Regulations change, new guidelines are introduced, and compliances are updated. As a responsible food business operator, you need to be on top of these changes to ensure your business remains compliant and continues to operate within the bounds of the law.

By the end of this guide, you'll have a clear understanding of the importance of the FSSAI license, the process of obtaining one, and how to stay updated with the latest FSSAIregulations. You will also gain insights into the nuances of different license types, which will help you determine which license is most suitable for your business.

Remember, an FSSAI license is more than just a legal requirement. It's a symbol of your commitment to food safety and quality. It reassures your customers that your products meet the food safety standards set by the national authority, thereby enhancing their trust in your brand. And in an industry where trust and credibility are everything, this can make all the difference.

Securing your FSSAI license is just the beginning of your journey in India's vibrant food industry. As you grow and expand, renewing your license and staying updated with the FSSAI's evolving guidelines will be an ongoing process. It's part of your commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety and constantly striving to exceed customer expectations.

In an industry as competitive as food and beverages, every detail counts. The right licensing and compliance not only keep you on the right side of the law but also give you a competitive edge. In a market where customers are increasingly aware and concerned about food safety, an FSSAI license can be a major selling point.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the premier governing body responsible for maintaining and regulating food safety standards in India. The FSSAI license, a mandatory requirement for any business involved in food operations, is a testament to the fact that food sold adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the FSSAI. From restaurants and cafes to food manufacturing units and retailers, the license is a mark of assurance to consumers about the safety and quality of the food they are consuming.

The FSSAI, established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, is a consolidated statute related to food safety and regulation in India. It ensures that the food business operates with a level of trust, maintaining the highest possible food quality.

It is a regulatory authority offering all food business operators (FBOs) in India with a food licence. All the FBOs must follow all of FSSAI's food quality control rules and regulations.

An FBO requires an FSSAI License or Registration all depends on the parts such as production size, nature management of food business activities and annual turnover of business. The FBO will get 14 digit number in the FSSAI registration process that needs to be printed on food packages.

FSSAI Registration ensures food product security, and is essentially a food safety certificate distributed in India by the food authority. All manufacturers, traders, restaurants, grocery stores, importers, exporters, etc. are eligible to issue an FSSAI License. FSSAI Licensing ensures that products are subject to strict quality controls, thereby reducing cases of adulteration, substandard product.


Types of FSSAI Licence

1. BASIC REGISTRATION

The first and most straightforward type of FSSAI license is the Basic Registration. This is intended for small-scale or petty Food Business Operators. If you're starting your journey in the food business with an annual turnover that does not exceed Rs. 12 Lakhs, this is the license you should apply for.

Designed for small-scale or petty Food Business Operators (FBOs), this license is ideal for businesses with an annual turnover not exceeding Rs. 12 Lakhs. This category typically includes small manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and online food sellers. The application process is straightforward, and can be completed online via the FSSAI website or the FoSCoS portal. Key documents required for this registration include Form A, government-issued photo ID, address proof, Food Safety Management Plan, a declaration form, and more.

2. STATE LICENSE

The State License is aimed at medium-sized businesses that have an annual turnover between Rs. 12 Lakhs and Rs. 20 Crores. If your food operation falls within this turnover bracket, this is the license you need to apply for. This category includes larger restaurants, food chains, and small-scale manufacturers among others.

The documentation required for the State License is more extensive than the Basic Registration. In addition to the documents needed for Basic Registration, you must submit Form B, which contains a more detailed account of your business. Other documents can include a Shop & Establishment Certificate, a PAN of the business, Certificate of Incorporation, photographs of Machinery and Lab Instruments, a BIS certificate (for packaged drinking water), and a balance sheet among others.

3. CENTRAL LICENSE

Finally, for large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 Crores, the Central License is required. This license is designed for FBOs with a large scale of operation such as 5-star hotels, large manufacturers, importers, exporters, and businesses operating in multiple states.

The Central License requires the most comprehensive set of documents. Along with everything needed for the State License, you may need additional documents such as an IE code document issued by DGFT, a certificate from Ministry of Tourism, a CGWA NOC for using bore-well water, and more.

Understanding which FSSAI license to apply for is the first step towards compliance and building a successful food business in India. The FSSAI guidelines and regulations are designed to ensure food safety and protect the interests of consumers. As a responsible FBO, it's not only crucial to understand these regulations but also to stay updated with any changes or updates.

There is some kind of business where the central license is compulsory;

a. When the food business is engaged in importing/exporting of food products

b. Food distributor located at premises of government

c. Retailer/wholesaler located at premises at a central government agency

d. Storage (warehouse) located at the central government agency

e. Food catering/canteen services in central government agencies having turnover above 12 lakh

f. Food distributor located at premises at airport/seaport

g. Retailer/wholesaler located at premises at airport/seaport

h. Storage(warehouse) located at premises at airport/seaport

i. Food catering services located at premises at airport/seaport

j. Mid-day meal canteen service having turnover more than 12 lakh

k. Mid-day meal caterer having turnover more than 12 lakh

l. Food business engaged in E-commerce


Criteria Basic FSSAI Registration State FSSAI License Central FSSAI License
Annual Turnover Up to Rs. 12 Lakhs Rs. 12 Lakhs to Rs. 20 Crores Above Rs. 20 Crores
Applicable For Small manufacturers, retailers, distributors, online food sellers, etc. Larger restaurants, food chains, small-scale manufacturers, etc. 5-star hotels, manufacturers, importers, exporters, businesses operating in multiple states, etc.
Key Documents Required Form A, Government-issued photo ID, Address proof, Food Safety Management Plan, Declaration form, etc. Everything in Basic Registration, plus Form B, Shop & Establishment Certificate, PAN of the business, Certificate of Incorporation, photos of machinery and lab instruments, BIS certificate (for packaged drinking water), Balance sheet, etc. Everything in State License, plus IE code document issued by DGFT, Certificate from Ministry of Tourism, CGWA NOC for using bore-well water, etc.
License Validity 1 to 5 years (Renewable) 1 to 5 years (Renewable) 1 to 5 years (Renewable)
Processing Time Usually 7 days Usually 30 days Usually 60 days
Legal Liability Lower compared to other licenses Medium liability High liability due to the scale of operations
Geographical Applicability Valid in a single district Valid in one state Valid across multiple states
Necessity for Multiple Licenses One license for each premise in one district One license for each premise in one state One license covers all premises across multiple states


Benefits of FSSAI License

  1. Consumer Awareness and Trust: An FSSAI license helps build trust among consumers as they feel assured of the food's safety. The license signals compliance with established food safety norms, reassuring consumers that the food products are checked for quality and hygiene.

  2. Legal Advantage: Having an FSSAI license helps businesses operate in compliance with India's food safety laws. It helps businesses avoid legal issues related to non-compliance, including fines, penalties, or closure.

  3. Business Expansion: FSSAI license is essential when expanding your food business to other states or regions. For businesses with Central FSSAI licenses, expansion becomes more manageable as one license covers operations across multiple states.

  4. Improved Business Potential: An FSSAI license can also boost a business's potential by opening up new opportunities. It is a prerequisite when applying for government tenders or contracts. Additionally, many companies prefer to do business with FSSAI-registered entities, giving licensed businesses an edge in B2B interactions.

  5. Use of FSSAI Logo: Once a business has an FSSAI license, it can use the FSSAI logo in its menu cards and pamphlets, enhancing the business's credibility and attracting more customers.

  6. Regulation of Storage & Handling: FSSAI guidelines not only ensure the food prepared is safe but also set standards for storage and handling, which helps to maintain food quality throughout the supply chain.

  7. Encourages Innovation: The FSSAI, through its various initiatives, encourages food businesses to innovate and improve their products. Initiatives like fortification of foods help businesses to contribute positively to public health and nutrition.

  8. Fosters a Culture of Food Safety: FSSAI license promotes a culture of food safety and hygiene, which is beneficial for all stakeholders - businesses, employees, and consumers. The adoption of safe practices helps in reducing the instances of foodborne illnesses and diseases.

  9. Global Recognition: For businesses aiming for international recognition, having an FSSAI license can aid in obtaining global validation. It is often seen as a positive step towards global food safety standards, which can increase export opportunities.

  10. Importance in Certifications and Loans: An FSSAI license is also crucial when applying for certifications or loans. Many food safety certifications require FSSAI registration, and banks may also consider it during the loan approval process.

Applicability of FSSAI License

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is a mandatory requirement for all entities involved in the production, distribution, and transportation of food products in India. It is designed to ensure that food products undergo quality checks, thereby reducing instances of adulteration, substandard products, and improving accountability of manufacturers. If your business is connected with food in any way, it's likely that you need an FSSAI license.

Here's a detailed list of entities who require an FSSAI license:

  1. Food Manufacturers: This includes large-scale food manufacturers, as well as small-scale and home-based businesses like pickle or papad making, or bakeries.

  2. Restaurants and Cafes: All types of eateries, from five-star hotels to small tea stalls, street food vendors, and fast-food outlets need to have an FSSAI license.

  3. Catering Businesses: Catering services operating in schools, offices, and other institutions need to acquire an FSSAI license.

  4. Packaged Food Companies: Businesses involved in producing, processing, and packaging food products need an FSSAI license.

  5. Dairy and Dairy Processing Units: Any business dealing with the production and processing of dairy products such as milk and cheese requires an FSSAI license.

  6. Importers and Exporters: If a business is involved in the import and export of food products, it needs to obtain a Central FSSAI license.

  7. Raw Material Suppliers: Suppliers providing raw materials to food businesses also need to have an FSSAI license.

  8. Retailers and Wholesalers: All food retailers and wholesalers, including grocery shops, need to be registered or licensed under FSSAI.

  9. Online Food Businesses: With the rise of online food delivery platforms, it's important to note that these businesses also need to obtain an FSSAI license. This includes online marketplaces selling food products and online food delivery platforms.

  10. Food Storage Units: Businesses involved in the storage and warehousing of food products need an FSSAI license.

  11. Canteens in Corporates, Schools, Hospitals, etc.: Any organization that serves food to its employees or other stakeholders needs to have an FSSAI license for its canteen.

  12. Food Transporters: Any entity involved in the transportation of food products needs to be registered under the FSSAI.

  13. Food Product Marketers: Businesses involved in marketing food products need to be registered under FSSAI.

  14. Food Packaging Units: All food packaging units must have an FSSAI license.


Various kind of business as per the FSSAI:

Manufacturer

➲ Dairy Units including milk chilling units equipped to handle or process

➲ Vegetable oil processing units and units producing vegetable oil by the process of solvent extraction and refineries including oil expeller unit

➲ Slaughtering units

➲ Meat processing unit

➲ All food processing units including relabeller & repackers

➲ Food manufacturing units engaged in manufacturing of proprietary food

Other Business

➲ Storage(warehouse)

➲ Wholesaler

➲ Retailer

➲ Distributor

➲ Food Vending Agencies

➲ Supplier

➲ Caterer

➲ Dhaba, Boarding House having food service, Banquet halls with food service, home based canteen, dabba wallas, parmenet/temporary stall holder, food stalls/ Arrangements in religious gathering/fairs etc, fish /meat/poultry shop/seller or any other food vending establishment

➲ club/canteen

➲ Hotels

➲ Restaurant

➲ Transporter

➲ Marketer

➲Hawker (itinerant/mobile food vendor)

➲ petty retailer of snacks/ tea shops

Premises at central government agencies

➲ Food catering/canteen services in central government agencies

➲ storage house

➲ Wholesaler

➲ Retailer

➲ Distributor

Premises at airport/seaport

➲ Food catering services

➲ Storage

➲ Wholesaler

➲ Retailer

➲ Distributor

Mid-day Meal

➲ caterer

➲ canteen

Export

➲ 100% Export oriented units

➲ Exporter

Railways

➲ Caterer

➲ Restaurant

➲ Club/ canteen

➲ Dhaba, Boarding House having food service, Banquet halls with food service, home based canteen, dabba wallas, parmenet/temporary stall holder, food stalls/ Arrangements in religious gathering/fairs etc, fish /meat/poultry shop/seller or any other food vending establishment

➲ Hawker

➲ petty retailer

➲ Storage

E-commerce

➲ E-commerce covered under the central license system

Process of Obtaining FSSAI license

STEP 1: Choose the type of required license

Firstly step is to choose the type of license or registration is required as per your business. If your food business is newly established then it will require FSSAI registration, but if your food business is old then the license will be required depending on your business turnover.

STEP 2: Choose your Kind of Business

The next step is to decide the kind of business for which you will apply for registration/license. FSSAI has fixed various kind of business for food business will apply for license or registration

STEP 3: Create a login on FSSAI site

Next after making the decision on the kind of business and type of license applicant need to create a user id on the FSSAI site and generate the user id and password.

STEP 4: Fill the form

Next after creating a login, you required to fill the form (Form-A for registration & Form-B for license), fill all required fields, and choose the food code for which you are applying. FSSAI has categorized the food and has specified Food code for various food products.

STEP 5: Attach the required attachment

After filing up the form applicant needs to attach the required documents like applicant I’d and address proof, business address proof, FSMS declaration, Simple declaration, and many others as per the type of license.

STEP 6: Make payment for license or registration

After filling up the form and attaching the applicant of the documents will move on the payment page where he has to make the payment for application which will be as per the fees per year.

                Government fees

➲ For BASIC REGISTRATION – 100 per year

➲ For State license-

Manufacturer/Miler

Fees/year

Production is above 1MT per day day

Milk production 10,001 to 50,000 LPD or 501 to 2500 MT of milk solids per annum

5000

Production below 1MT

Milk production 501 to 10000LPD or 2.5 to 500 MT milk solid per annum

3000

Hotels up to 4 star

5000

Other food services having turnover more than 12 lakh but less than 20 crore

2000

➲ For CENTRAL LICENCE - 7500 per year

Documents required for FSSAI License

FSSAI Basic Registration This is designed for small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover that does not exceed Rs. 12 Lakhs. Here are the documents generally required:

  1. Identity proof and address proof: This could be a Voter ID, PAN card, Driving License, Passport, or Aadhar Card.
  2. Passport-sized photograph of the food business owner.
  3. Proof of possession of premises: This can include a rent agreement, electricity bill, or a letter of consent from the landlord.

FSSAI State License If your food business has an annual turnover between Rs. 12 Lakhs and Rs. 20 Crores, you will need the State License. The document requirements are similar to the Basic License but with a few additional ones:

  1. Blueprint or layout plan of the processing unit, showing the dimensions and operation-wise area allocation.
  2. List of directors/partners/proprietor with address, contact details, and photo ID.
  3. List of equipment and machinery along with the number and installed capacity.
  4. Source of raw material for meat and meat processing plants.
  5. Pesticide residues report of water in case of units manufacturing packaged drinking water, packaged Mineral water, and/or carbonated water from a recognized/public health laboratory.

FSSAI Central License This is for large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 Crores. The documents required include all those mentioned for the State License, plus a few more:

  1. Ministry of Commerce Certificate for 100% EOU.
  2. NOC/PA document issued by FSSAI.
  3. IEC document issued by DGFT.
  4. Form IX: Nomination of Persons by a Company along with the Board Resolution.
  5. Certificate from Ministry of Tourism (HRACC) (Applicable for Hotels only).

Difference Between Various form Of FSSAI license

Particular

Basic

State

Central

Turnover

Below 12 Lakhs

More than 12 lakh but less than 20 crore

More than 20 crore

On the basis of kind of business

For milk chilling house equipped to handle or process

FOB capacity of Up to 500 liters per day or up- to 2.5 MT per annum

 

For Slaughtering house

-Large animals up-to 2 numbers

  • -Small animals up-to 10 numbers
  • -Poultry birds up-to 50 numbers per day

 

For Processing Unit

More than 100kg/day to 2 MT/days

 

For Wholeseller

Turnover upto maximum 30 crore

 

For milk chilling house equipped to handle or process

501 liters per day to 50,000 liters per day milk or more than 2.5 MT of milk solids per annum

 

For Slaughtering house

-Large animals more than 2 and upto 50 max

  • -Small animals more than 10 and up to 50 max  numbers
  • -Poultry birds moret than 50 and up to 1000 per day

 

For Processing unit

Production more than 2MT/day

 

For milk chilling house equipped to handle or process

More than 50,000 Ltr/day or more than 2500 MT of milk solids per day

 

For Slaughtering house

-Large animals more than 50/day

-small animals more than 150/day

- Poultry bird more than 1000/day

 

For Wholeseailing

Turnover more than 30 Crore

 

For Importing/Exporting Unit

 

For E-commerce

 

 

Issuing Authority

FSSAI department

FSSAI State department

FSSAI Central Department

Audit/ inspection

NO Audit

Mandatorily

Mandatorily

Annual Return

NO returns need to be filed

Yes Annual return need to be filed through form D1 and through D2 for half yearly return for manufacturer of milk and milk product

Yes Annual return need to be filed through form D1 through D2 for half yearly return for manufacturer of milk and milk product

Government fees

INR 100/ year

INR 2000/ Year*

INR 7500/ Year

Form Type

Form-A is filed for Registration

Form-B filed for license

Form-B filed for license



FAQs on FSSAI License in India

  1. What is FSSAI Registration in India? FSSAI Registration in India is a mandatory process for all food businesses, governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.


  2. Why is FSSAI Registration important for my food business? FSSAI Registration is not only a legal requirement but it also demonstrates your commitment to offering safe and hygienic food products, establishing trust with your customers and stakeholders.


  3. What are the different types of FSSAI Licenses? There are three main types of FSSAI licenses: Basic FSSAI Registration, State License, and Central License, designed to cater to food businesses of different sizes and natures.


  4. Which FSSAI License is suitable for my food business? The type of FSSAI License you need depends on your business size and turnover. The Basic Registration is for small businesses with an annual turnover not exceeding Rs. 12 Lakhs. The State License is for businesses with a turnover between Rs. 12 Lakhs and Rs. 20 Crores, and the Central License is for businesses with a turnover exceeding Rs. 20 Crores.


  5. Can I apply for FSSAI Registration online? Yes, the FSSAI Registration process can be completed online through the official FSSAI website or the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal.


  6. What documents are required for Basic FSSAI Registration? For Basic FSSAI Registration, you typically need identity and address proof, a passport-sized photograph of the food business owner, and proof of possession of premises.


  7. What additional documents are required for State and Central FSSAI Licenses? In addition to the basic documents, State and Central FSSAI Licenses require more detailed documentation, including a layout plan of the processing unit, lists of equipment, machinery, and personnel, and specific certificates and documents related to your business.


  8. How long does it take to get an FSSAI License in India? The time frame for obtaining an FSSAI License can vary depending on the type of license and the completeness of the application, but it typically takes between 30 to 60 days.


  9. Is FSSAI Registration required for home-based food businesses? Yes, home-based food businesses, regardless of their size, are required to go through the FSSAI registration process.


  10. Does FSSAI Registration apply to food importers and exporters? Yes, FSSAI Licensing applies to all food business operators in India, including manufacturers, traders, restaurants, grocery stores, importers, exporters, etc.


  11. How often do I need to renew my FSSAI License? FSSAI Licenses are typically valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on the fee paid, and need to be renewed accordingly.


  12. Can I operate multiple food businesses under a single FSSAI License? Each premise or location of a food business needs its own FSSAI License. However, a single central license can be obtained for a company operating in multiple states.


  13. What is the penalty for not having an FSSAI License? Operating a food business without an FSSAI License is a punishable offense with a penalty up to Rs. 5 Lakhs and imprisonment up to 6 months.


  14. What is the Government Fees for various category of License? Basic Registration- INR 100/year; State License- 2000/year (for Milk producer and 4 star hotels fee varies); Central License- INR 7500/year.


     

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