FSSAI Registration and Licensing Guide for Food Businesses in India

FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is a Government Organization that ensures food safety and quality standards in India. Any business involved in food manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale must have an FSSAI license. It helps regulate food safety and ensures that food products meet quality standards, protecting consumer health.

About FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration is the process through which food businesses in India obtain a license from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This registration ensures that the business complies with food safety standards and regulations. It is mandatory for anyone involved in the production, storage, distribution, or sale of food products. The registration helps promote safe food practices and protects consumer health by ensuring that food businesses meet quality and safety requirements.

Online FSSAI Registration Process

Online FSSAI registration is the process of applying for an FSSAI license through the official website or authorized portals. It allows food businesses to register, renew, or modify their licenses quickly and conveniently. The FSSAI license is mandatory for businesses involved in food production, storage, distribution, or sale to ensure they comply with food safety and quality standards.

Online FSSAI Registration and Licensing

It is a digital process for food businesses to apply for, renew, or modify their FSSAI licenses through the official FSSAI website or authorized service providers. The FSSAI license is mandatory for any business involved in the manufacturing, processing, distribution, and sale of food products.

Depending on the size and turnover of the business, applicants can opt for:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration (for small businesses).
2. State FSSAI License (for medium-sized businesses).
3. Central FSSAI License (for large businesses or those involved in interstate trade).

The online process simplifies compliance, ensuring food safety and quality across all operations.

Types of FSSAI Registration

Basic FSSAI Registration

• For small businesses or startups with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs.
• Applicable for small food manufacturers, retailers, and distributors.

State FSSAI License

• For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
• Required for state-level manufacturers, storage units, transporters, and food retailers.

Central FSSAI License

• For large businesses with an annual turnover above ₹20 crores or those involved in inter-state trade.
• Required for importers, large food manufacturers, warehouses, and exporters.

Each type of license is tailored to different business sizes and operations, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.

The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006

The Food Safety and Standards Act, of 2006, is a key law in India that ensures food safety and quality. It established the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to regulate food businesses and enforce safety measures. This Act brings together various food laws into one, promoting safe food practices and consumer awareness. It requires food manufacturers and sellers to get licenses and follow safety standards, ensuring that consumers have access to safe and healthy food.

Advantages of FSSAI Registration

• Ensures legal compliance with food safety laws, preventing penalties.
• Builds consumer trust by assuring the safety and quality of food products.
• Provides a market advantage, allowing access to larger markets and e-commerce platforms.
• Promotes adherence to food safety and quality standards, improving product quality.
• Offers updates on food safety regulations, keeping businesses informed.
• Attracts customers who prioritize safe food practices.
• Allows smooth operations without interruptions from regulatory authorities.
• Opens up business opportunities for partnerships and collaborations.

Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration

• Any food business operator (FBO) with an annual revenue of up to ₹12 lakh.
• Small vendors who sell food products.
• Individuals who independently produce or market food items.
• Managers of temporary food stalls.
• People serving meals at social or religious events (not including professional caterers).
• Cottage and small-scale businesses in the food industry.

Checklist for FSSAI Registration

1. Business Name: Specify the name of your business.
2. Business Entity Type: Indicate the type of business (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, company).
3. Official Address Proof: Provide a document that verifies your business's official address.
4. Contact Details: Include a phone number and email address for communication.
5. Business Address: Provide the physical address where the business operates.
6. Description of Business Activity: Give a brief overview of the food products or services offered.
7. Total Annual Production Quantity: Estimate the total quantity of food produced annually.
8. Business Registration Details: Include any existing registration certificates or licenses related to the business.
9. Date of Business Commencement: State the date when the business officially began operations.
10. Seasonal Business Duration: For seasonal businesses, specify the total duration of operations during the year.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

1. Application Form: Completed FSSAI registration application form.
2. Identity Proof: Government-issued ID (Aadhaar card, passport, etc.) of the applicant.
3. Address Proof: Document verifying the business address (electricity bill, rent agreement, etc.).
4. Business Registration Certificate: Certificate of registration if the business is registered (e.g., Partnership Deed, Company Registration).
5. Food Safety Management Plan: Description of food safety practices and procedures in place.
6. List of Products: A list of food products that the business intends to manufacture or sell.
7. NOC from Local Authorities: No Objection Certificate from local health authorities (if applicable).
8. Proof of Ownership: Documents proving ownership of the business premises (property deed, lease agreement).
9. Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs of the applicant.

Make sure to check the specific requirements based on the type of business, as additional documents may be needed.

Process to Get a Food License in India

Applying for a food license or FSSAI registration in India is now easier than ever with Restthecase. We provide a simple three-step online process that you can complete from anywhere in the Country.

Consult Our Experts

Connect with our top legal experts to address all your questions regarding FSSAI registration and licensing. Based on your needs, we’ll help you determine the appropriate type of FSSAI license and registration required.

Provide All the Necessary Documents

Our team will gather all the essential documents needed for your FSSAI registration application. We will ensure that everything is accurate and will handle the filing process on your behalf.

Complete FSSAI Registration and Obtain Your License

Once the application is submitted, our team will diligently follow up on the process and keep you informed. As soon as your registration is successful, you will receive your FSSAI certificate along with your license number.

Who is Required to Apply for FSSAI Registration?

1. Food Business Operators (FBOs): Any individual or business involved in the manufacture, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, or sale of food products.
2. Restaurants and Cafes: All eateries, including hotels, restaurants, and cafes that prepare and serve food.
3. Food Manufacturers: Businesses that produce food items, including packaged foods, snacks, and beverages.
4. Retailers: Grocery stores, supermarkets, and any retail outlets selling food products.
5. Caterers: Companies providing catering services for events, parties, and gatherings.
6. Food Importers and Exporters: Businesses that import or export food items must comply with FSSAI regulations.
7. Temporary Food Stalls: Vendors selling food at temporary locations, such as fairs or festivals.
8. Home-Based Food Businesses: Individuals who prepare and sell food from home, including homemade food products.

It is essential for these entities to obtain FSSAI registration to ensure compliance with food safety standards and regulations in India.

Penalty for Non-Compliance in FSSAI Registration

1. No FSSAI license – Fine up to ₹5 lakh, Jail up to 6 months.
2. Substandard food – Fine up to ₹5 lakh.
3. Misbranded food – Fine up to ₹3 lakh.
4. Unsafe food – Fine up to ₹10 lakh, possible Jail time.
5. Ignoring improvement notice – Fine up to ₹2 lakh, license can be canceled or suspended.
6. Obstructing FSSAI officer – Fine up to ₹1 lakh.

Comparing FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License

Renewal and Validity of FSSAI Licenses

The FSSAI License is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the duration chosen by the Food Business Operator (FBO) when applying. To avoid penalties, businesses must renew the license before it expires. The renewal process should be started at least 30 days before the expiry date. If the license expires, the business may face fines, and it cannot operate legally without a valid license.

In short:

• Validity: 1 to 5 years
• Renewal: Start at least 30 days before expiry.

Why Choose Rest The Case?

Restthecase is dedicated to simplifying complex legal processes, making us the ideal partner for FSSAI registration. With a team of experienced professionals, we ensure a seamless and efficient registration process, guiding businesses through every step of FSSAI compliance. Our expertise guarantees adherence to food safety regulations while expediting the registration timeline. Trust us to manage the intricacies of FSSAI registration, allowing you to focus on your core business activities while we ensure compliance with the utmost accuracy and reliability.

FAQs on FSSAI Registration

Question: What is FSSAI Registration and who needs it?

Answer: FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food businesses in India, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and food importers, to ensure food safety and compliance with regulations.

Question: What is the difference between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License?

Answer: FSSAI Registration is for small food businesses with limited turnover, while an FSSAI License is required for larger businesses, with eligibility based on the size and nature of the business.

Question: What are the documents required for FSSAI Registration?

Answer: Common documents include proof of identity, business registration certificate, food safety management plan, and details of the food business (e.g., address, type of business).

Question: How long does it take to get FSSAI Registration?

Answer: It typically takes 7 to 60 days to obtain FSSAI registration, depending on the category and the nature of the application.

Question: What is the validity of FSSAI Registration, and how can it be renewed?

Answer: FSSAI Registration is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the application, and can be renewed online before its expiry to avoid penalties.