FSSAI License in India
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was established in 2006 under Food Safety and Standards Act which incorporates various acts & orders that have, until now handled food issues in various Ministries and Departments. FSSAI was created to lay down science-based standards for food articles and to regulate their manufacture, distribution, sale, storage, import and export to ensure the authenticity of safe and wholesome food. FSSAI license has become compulsory for all manufacturers, restaurants, traders, and those involved in a food business, commonly termed Food Business Operators (FBOs).
Understanding FSSAI License
The FSSAI license is a 14-digit registration or license number that ensures the quality and safety of food products in India. All food business operators (FBOs) must obtain this license before commencing their operations.
Why is FSSAI License Important?
Obtaining an FSSAI license is crucial for several reasons:
- Ensuring Food Safety: The primary objective of the FSSAI is to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food for consumption by the public.
- Legal Compliance: It is a legal requirement for FBOs to obtain a license before starting their food-related operations.
- Consumer Trust and Credibility: Having a valid FSSAI license enhances consumer trust and confidence in the quality of the products.
- Business Expansion: An FSSAI license enables businesses to expand their operations to a broader market and explore new opportunities.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
The FSSAI offers three types of licenses, depending on the scale of operation and business:
Basic FSSAI License (FSSAI Registration): This license is suitable for small businesses and startups with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs. It is also known as FSSAI Registration.
State FSSAI License: Medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover of over Rs. 12 lakhs and up to Rs. 20 crores must obtain a State FSSAI License.
Central FSSAI License: Large-scale businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores must apply for a Central FSSAI License.
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI License
1. Food Business Operators (FBOs)
Any individual or entity producing, processing, packaging, distributing, or importing food products is considered an FBO.
2. Documents Required
The following documents are generally required to apply for an FSSAI license:
- Business registration documents
- Identity and address proof of the proprietor/partners/director
- List of food products to be manufactured/sold
- Food safety management plan
- Proof of possession of premises
Collection of required documents
- Application Form-B duly completed and signed (in duplicate) by the proprietor.
- Layout Plan of the processing unit.
- List of directors with their addresses and contact details.
- Names of equipment and machinery along with the installed capacity.
- Photo ID and address proof issued by the concerned Government authority.
- List of food manufactured.
- Authority letter with the name of the responsible person nominated by the manufacturer and the alternative responsible person.
- Analysis report (Chemical and Bacteriological) of the FSSAI License to be used as an ingredient in the food product through a Government recognized laboratory on food testing.
- Partnership Deed/affidavit and Articles of Association conferring the firm’s constitution.
- A copy of the certificate obtained under the Co-operative acts (In co-operatives only).
- No Objection Certificate from the manufacturer in case of re-labellers.
- Source of milk and milk products processing units.
- Details on the source of raw material for meat and meat processing plants.
- Pesticide residues report water in the case of a manufacturer of packaged drinking water, mineral water, and carbonated water from a govt—recognized lab.
- No Objection Certificates from the local body or the municipality and the State Pollution Control Board except in case the unit is established in the notified industrial area for a particular food business (Optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining FSSAI License Online
1. Determine the License Type: Identify the appropriate type of FSSAI license based on the scale of your food business.
2. Create an FBO Account on the FSSAI Website: Register as a Food Business Operator on the official FSSAI website.
3. Fill and Submit the Application Form: Complete the application form with accurate details and submit it online.
4. Pay the Applicable Fee: Pay the required fee for the FSSAI license, which varies depending on the type and duration of the license.
5. Inspection of the Premises: After submitting the application and fee, the FSSAI authorities will inspect your premises to verify compliance with safety standards.
6. Issuance of the License: Upon successful inspection and verification, the FSSAI license will be issued to you.
Offline Submission
Within 15 days of submission of the application form, the applicant must take a printout of the Online Application Form and attach the demand draft in case of fees not paid online and supported documents and submit the FSSAI License to their State Authority or Regional Office of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
Food control safety is necessary to bridge the gap between safe and contaminated food. Flexibility and efficiency in the food industry standards serve as protective sheets to consumers.
Benefits of Obtaining an FSSAI License
- Legal Compliance: By obtaining the FSSAI license, businesses comply with the legal requirements of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
- Consumer Trust and Credibility: Having an FSSAI license instils confidence in consumers about the safety and quality of the food products.
- Business Expansion: FSSAI license opens up opportunities for business expansion and collaborations with other entities in the food industry.
- Collaboration with Food Aggregators and Retailers: Many food aggregators and retailers require FSSAI-compliant products, enabling FBOs to collaborate.
Conclusion
Obtaining an FSSAI license is vital for any food business in India. It ensures compliance with food safety standards, boosts consumer trust, and opens up new business opportunities. By following the step-by-step guide mentioned above, businesses can streamline the process of obtaining the license and embark on a successful food venture.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the validity of an FSSAI license?
The validity of the license can range from 1 to 5 years, depending on the duration chosen by the applicant.
2. Can a single license cover multiple locations?
Yes, a single FSSAI license can cover multiple locations if they are part of the same company or entity.
3. Is FSSAI registration mandatory for small businesses?
Yes, FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food businesses, regardless of their size or scale of operation.
4. What are the penalties for non-compliance with FSSAI regulations?
Penalties for non-compliance can include fines, product recalls, and even imprisonment in severe cases.
5. Can I apply for a central license directly without obtaining a state license first?
No, obtaining a state license before applying for a central license is necessary.
