FSSAI License
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is a mandatory compliance for food business operators (FBOs) in India. It ensures that the food products manufactured, distributed, or sold adhere to the standards set by the authority to ensure food safety and hygiene. Here’s an in-depth look at what the FSSAI license entails:
Types of FSSAI Licenses
Basic FSSAI Registration:
- For small food business operators.
- Annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs.
- Examples: small retailers, storage units, transporters, distributors, marketers.
State FSSAI License:
- For medium-sized food businesses.
- Annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores.
- Examples: small to medium-sized manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, distributors.
Central FSSAI License:
- For large food businesses.
- Annual turnover above Rs. 20 crores.
- Examples: large manufacturers, importers, exporters dealing in food business, operators in Central Government agencies, large storage units.
Eligibility Criteria
Basic Registration:
- Annual turnover up to Rs. 12 lakhs.
- Petty retailer, hawker, itinerant vendor, or temporary stall holder.
State License:
- Annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores.
- Small and medium-sized manufacturing units, storage, transporters, and distributors.
Central License:
- Annual turnover above Rs. 20 crores.
- Large-scale food manufacturers, operators in central government agencies, importers, and exporters of food products.
Documents Required for FSSAI License
Basic FSSAI Registration:
- Photo ID of the FBO.
- Proof of address.
- Business details.
State FSSAI License:
- Form B duly completed and signed.
- Plan of the processing unit showing the dimensions and operation-wise area allocation.
- List of directors/partners/proprietor.
- Contact details of the directors.
- Name and list of equipment and machinery used.
- List of food category to be manufactured.
- Authority letter with name and address of the responsible person.
- Analysis report of water to be used in the process.
Central FSSAI License:
- Form B duly completed and signed.
- Plan of the processing unit showing the dimensions and operation-wise area allocation.
- List of directors/partners/proprietor.
- Contact details of the directors.
- Name and list of equipment and machinery used.
- List of food category to be manufactured.
- Authority letter with name and address of the responsible person.
- Analysis report of water to be used in the process.
- Source of raw material for milk, meat, etc.
- Recall plan wherever applicable.
- Ministry of Commerce Certificate for 100% EOU.
- NOC/PA document issued by FSSAI.
- Supporting proof of turnover.
Application Process for FSSAI License
Basic Registration:
- Submit Form A to the FSSAI department.
- Once submitted, a unique registration number is provided.
State and Central License:
- Submit Form B to the FSSAI department along with required documents.
- An inspection is conducted by the FSSAI officials.
- Upon successful verification, a license is issued.
Validity and Renewal
- The FSSAI license is valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, based on the application by the FBO.
- Renewal should be applied at least 30 days before the expiry of the current license.
- The process for renewal is similar to the application process, requiring the submission of Form B and necessary documents.
Importance of FSSAI License
- Consumer Safety: Ensures that food products are safe for consumption.
- Legal Requirement: Mandatory compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- Consumer Trust: Enhances the credibility and trust of consumers in the food products.
- Business Expansion: Necessary for expanding business operations and ensuring the product’s marketability.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Operating a food business without an FSSAI license can lead to penalties, fines, and imprisonment.
- Penalties range from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 10 lakhs, depending on the severity of the non-compliance.
Obtaining an FSSAI license is crucial for any food business operator in India to ensure legal compliance, consumer safety, and business growth. Proper understanding of the types of licenses, eligibility criteria, required documents, and the application process can help FBOs secure their FSSAI license efficiently.
