FSSAI License: Overview and Step-by-Step Procedure
The FSSAI License is a mandatory certification for all food-related businesses operating in India. Issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), this license ensures that food products manufactured, stored, distributed, or sold by your business comply with safety and hygiene standards outlined under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Whether you own a cloud kitchen, restaurant, catering unit, food packaging business, or you are an online food seller, you are required to obtain an FSSAI license.
Why FSSAI License is Important
- Legal Compliance: Operating a food business without an FSSAI License is punishable by law.
- Consumer Trust: Displaying the FSSAI number increases credibility and trust among customers.
- Business Expansion: An FSSAI license is often required for partnering with online platforms, exporting food, or participating in government tenders.
- Food Safety Assurance: Ensures your business adheres to safe food handling practices.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
Depending on the size, nature, and turnover of the business, FSSAI offers three types of licenses:
- Basic Registration: For small food businesses with turnover below ₹12 lakhs per annum.
- State License: For medium-sized units with annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Central License: For large-scale operators with turnover above ₹20 crores or businesses involved in import/export.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Obtaining an FSSAI License
1. Identify the Appropriate License Type
Before applying, determine whether your business requires Basic Registration, a State License, or a Central License. The classification depends on factors like turnover, geographical reach, and the type of food handled.
2. Collect Required Documents
Prepare the following documents based on the license category:
- Passport-sized photo and ID proof of the business owner
- Address proof of the business premises
- Business registration documents (e.g., Partnership Deed, Certificate of Incorporation)
- List of food products handled
- Food Safety Management Plan (FSMS)
- Water quality report (if applicable)
- Authorization letter and details of food safety supervisor
- Blueprint or layout of the premises (for manufacturing units)
- Product labeling samples and packaging details
3. Fill and Submit the Application
Visit the official FSSAI FOSCOS portal and register your business. Select the correct license type and fill out Form A (for registration) or Form B (for license). Upload the necessary documents and pay the application fee online.
4. Application Review and Inspection
Once submitted, the FSSAI authority reviews your application and may conduct a physical inspection of your premises. They verify hygiene standards, storage areas, waste disposal systems, and other safety practices.
5. License Issuance
Upon successful verification, the FSSAI License is issued with a unique 14-digit license number. This number must be printed on food packages, menus, invoices, and promotional materials.
6. License Renewal
FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years depending on the payment of fees. Renewal must be applied for 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
Product Approval under FSSAI
If your food product contains novel ingredients or doesn’t fall under standardized categories, you must go through the FSSAI product approval process:
- Form Submission: Use Form 1A or 1B, depending on the ingredient source.
- Documentation: Submit ingredient list, test reports, food category codes, and packaging labels.
- Fees: ₹25,000 application fee, with an additional ₹25,000 if referred to a scientific panel.
- Outcome: On successful assessment, FSSAI issues a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
FSSAI Compliance and Renewal
- Renew your license before expiration to avoid suspension.
- Comply with periodic inspections, testing, and hygiene audits by FSSAI officers.
- Maintain updated records and a valid FSMS plan at all times.
- File annual returns (Form D1) for manufacturing units.
Consequences of Not Having an FSSAI License
- Penalty of up to ₹5 lakhs and imprisonment for non-compliance
- Legal actions under the Food Safety Act
- Loss of customer trust and potential business shutdown
- Ban from selling on food delivery platforms (Zomato, Swiggy, etc.)
Apply for Your FSSAI License with Expert Help
Don’t let the paperwork slow you down. Our professionals can assist you with FSSAI registration, documentation, compliance checks, and product approvals. Whether you run a cloud kitchen, food truck, or a packaged food business, we make the FSSAI License process hassle-free and efficient.
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