India is one of the countries where compliance with legal requirements is required to start a food business. One of the key concerns is the FSSAI registration. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the supreme authority responsible for controlling and monitoring food safety and hygiene throughout the nation. All FBOs should have a registration or license under FSSAI before commencing operations.
This article will interpret what FSSAI registration is, why it is important, the kind of registration, how one can go about getting it, and the major advantages of obtaining the FSSAI registration in India.
What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI registration is a 14-digit license or registration number that all food businesses must obtain under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It confirms that the food product is safe to eat, and the business observes the rules and regulations of the FSSAI.
This registration is compulsory for all food operators – food manufacturers, food processors, restaurants, caterers, wholesalers, exporters, and online food platforms.
What is the Importance of FSSAI Registration?
- Legal Compliance: In India, it is not legal to operate a food business without FSSAI registration. By registering, you will be able to abide by the law as far as food safety and standards are concerned without the risk of paying hefty fines or being sued by the law or even having your business shut down.
- Consumer Trust: Your food products bearing the FSSAI logo will instill confidence in consumers that they are purchasing safe and high-quality food. It improves your reputation and creates customer trust.
- Market Expansion: The primary benefit of FSSAI registration is that it will help your food business grow and scale with minimal hassle, particularly when you are ready to expand to multi-state or e-commerce food marketplaces.
Prevention of Penalties
In case your unregistered or unlicensed food business is found to be operating, a sentence may be imposed varying between 5,000 rupees and 5 lakh rupees according to the penalty.
Types of FSSAI Registration/Licenses in India
Depending on the size and turnover of your food business, you need either one of the following three kinds of registrations or licenses:
1. Basic Registration
- Turnover: Up to 12 lakh per annum
- Eligibility: Food small businesses, including small food manufacturers, hawkers, and street food vendors.
2. State License
- Turnover: Between Rs. 12 lakh and 20 crores a year
- Eligibility: Medium-sized food enterprises like food processors, restaurants, hotels, etc.
3. Central License
- Turnover: More than 20 crores annually or food entities dealing with imports, exports, and operations in more than a single state.
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
The following is the list of the basic documents required when you wish to apply for FSSAI registration or license in India:
- ID and address verification of the food operator business (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport)
- Photo of the applicant’s passport size
- Documentary evidence of occupancy (Rent agreement, electricity bill, and so on)
- A deed of partnership or an incorporation certificate of the company
- Food safety management system plan (FSMS)
- NOC of municipal corporation/ local authority (in selected cases)
- List of food products that are manufactured or handled
Some of the documents can also be necessary when applying for a State or Central License, which includes:
- Plan/design of the blueprint of the processing unit
- List of directors, partners, and board resolution
- Origin of source of raw materials and food safety strategies embraced
Step-by-Step Process for FSSAI Registration in India
Step 1: Determine the Type of Registration
Depending on your company’s turnover and the size of its operations, you should have an elementary registration, a state license, or a central license.
Step 2: Submit the Application Form
It is possible to access the official website of the authorities, FSSAI Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS), or the most recent FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. Fill in the appropriate Form A or Form B, and provide appropriate business information.
Step 3: Submit Documents
Enclose all the supporting materials as per the requirements thereof—Cross-check completeness before submission.
Step 4: Pay the Corresponding Fee
Unlike the categories, which may vary depending on the number of fees to be paid in the course of registration and licenses, which range between 100 and 7,500 rupees per year. It is possible to make payments online.
Step 5: Inspection and Review of the Application
After reviewing your application, there may be an inspection of your place by the FSSAI agencies to ensure that they maintain the standards of food safety.
Step 6: Issuance of FSSAI Registration
Provided all is in order, your FSSAI registration certificate will be sent, along with a special 14-digit identification code that you will prominently display at your premises and label on any food product packaging.
Renewal and Validity of FSSAI Registration
The validity of FSSAI registration lasts up to 5 years, provided the same is renewed every 1 to 5 years. The renewal exercise should begin 30 days prior to the expiry period; failure to do so may result in the imposition of fines or termination of the registration.
Advantages of Getting FSSAI Registration
- Food Safety and Quality are ensured.
- Increases Consumer Confidence
- Creates New Market and Opportunities
- Compulsory to take part in Government Tenders
- Creates Brand-Reputation and Credibility
Conclusion
Obtaining an FSSAI registration in India is the first step, whether you are starting a small food stall or a large food processing organization. It not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also increases credibility, safety, and further growth of your business.
By implementing the proper process and maintaining food safety, you not only earn the confidence of your customers but also contribute to making the food industry safer and less hazardous to people’s health.
