The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, popularly known as FSSAI, operates to maintain the standards of food safety. If you are going to run a food business, either by way of manufacturing it, or storing it, or transporting it or distributing it, then it becomes worthwhile to understand what FSSAI registration and an FSSAI license is all about. 

Hence, FSSAI registration is mandatory for anyone into the food business - this not only involves preparing food but everyone who handles food at various stages before it reaches the end consumer as well as the agencies who have the licence to sell them.

FSSAI Registration is provided based on the business type, turnover and production capacity. Based on such criteria, such business owners become eligible for FSSAI Licences - either basic, state or central licences.

Here's a detailed overview for you:

FSSAI Registration

FSSAI Registration is mandatory for such food manufacturers, small scale industries, shop owners or FBO having a turnover of up to INR 12 Lakhs, annually, unless the manufacturers or FBO are covered under mandatory licensing.

The aforesaid food manufacturers, small scale industries, shop owners or FBO having such annual turnover complying with the below conditions, must obtain FSSAI Registration certificate.

• Annual Turnover should not exceed INR 12 Lakhs;

• Slaughtering capacity is two large animals or ten small animals or 50 poultry birds per day or less;

• Food Distributors excluding caterer;

• Production capacity of food products upto 100 litres or kg per day (other than milk / milk products and meat / meat products);

• Handling and collection of milk is up to 500 litres per day.
  

Documents Required:

1. Application form (Form A).

2. Their Aadhaar or PAN card;

3. Address Proof

4.  If the business is a partnership firm, copy the partnership deed.

5. Nature of Business;

6. Any other document(s) that the authority may call for.

Validity: 

1. The registration is 1-5 years valid in general and depends on the category.

A 14 digit FSSAI Registration number will be granted by the State Licensing authority once the application is approved.

FSSAI License

Businesses engaged in Food Processing, manufacturing, importers or exporters having an annual turnover above INR 12 Lakhs annually, are mandatorily required to obtain FSSAI License.

FSSAI License is broadly divided into 2 categories: State License and Central License, based on the size of the business.

Types of Licenses:

• State Licence: The Business Owners into the Food and Beverage industry having an annual turnover exceeding INR 12 Lakhs but below INR 20 Crores is considered as medium-sized FBO and must obtain a state license. This is produced by the State Government in consultation with the local people.
• Central License: The Business Owners into the Food and Beverage industry having an annual turnover exceeding INR 20 Crore are mandatorily required to obtain central license. This usually covers large sized corporations into food processing, manufacturing and also having international trade of food products. This license is one granted by the Central Government.

Documents Required:

• Application form (Form B).
• Proof of identity and address.
• Papers relating to the formation of companies.
• Organization of the processing unit.
• The list of food products to be manufactured.

Validity:

• The FSSAI licenses last for 1 – 5 years and are renewable. Such application for renewal is to be done 30 days before the expiry.

Registration and Licensing: Distinctions

Why should FSSAI compliance be important?

FSSAI Registration or Food Safety and Standard Authority of India registration has emerged as a foremost priority for food businesses in India due its strict food safety guidelines and their enforcement.

The importance of FSSAI compliance can be explained as follows:

• Consumer Safety: It helps to check on the food products to make sure that they have met the anticipation of safety and quality.

• Legal Requirement: It is compulsory for the functioning of a food business activity in India.

• Trust Building: Having an FSSAI registration or license is confidence and goodwill building to the consumers.

• Ensures Quality: The FSSAI License or Registration number restores assurity on the quality of the product

Risks and Penalties of Operating without FSSAI License / Registration

Cases where FSSAI Registration or FSSAI license is mandatory and where such entities are operating without obtaining such registration or license or proper authorisation, may lead to fine of up to INR 5 Lakhs and imprisonment of up to 6 months.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is purely for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy, reliability and completeness of the content presented, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, for the same. 

We expressly disclaim any and all liability for any loss, damage or injury arising from or in connection with the use of or reliance on this information. This includes, but is not limited to, any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential or punitive damage.

Further, we reserve the right to make changes to the content at any time without prior notice. For specific advice tailored to your situation, we request you to get in touch with us.