FSSAI stands for Food Saftey and Standards Authority of India.
What is a FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was created under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This act combined several older laws and orders that were handled by different government ministries and departments to manage food-related issues.
Previously, there were various central laws like the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act of 1954 and the Meat Food Products Order of 1973.
Now, FSSAI registration serves as a single reference point for all matters related to food safety and standards in India.
A food safety license ensures that safe and nutritious food is available for people to consume.
What are the different types of FSSAI License?
There are 3 FSSAI License Categories. They are:
FSSAI Registration
- Food Business operators with an annual turnover of less than 12 lakhs need to apply for FSSAI basic registration.
- This applies to small and petty food businesses and is valid within the same state.
- Businesses with basic registration do not export to other states.
FSSAI State License
- Food Business operators with an annual turnover of more than 12 lakhs but below Rs. 20 crores.
- This applies to medium sized businesses and is valid within the same state.
- Businesses with state licenses work within the same state.
FSSAI Central License
- Food Business operators with an annual turnover of more than 20 crores will apply for Central License.
- This central license will be applicable for large sized businesses and valid within all states.
- Exports, imports, proprietary food, food or health supplements, and nutraceuticals will exclusively fall under the category of a central license.
What are the documents required to obtain an FSSAI license online?
Following documents are required to obtain an FSSAI license online. They are:
FOR BASIC REGISTRATION
- Passport- Size photo of the applicant
- I’d and address proof of the applicant
- Proof of the business address for which the license applies. If the property is rented, then a rent agreement or NOC on stamp paper from the owner is required.
- Nature of business
- Email I’d and phone number of the applicant.
FOR STATE LICENSE ONLINE
- Proof of the business address for which the license applies. If the property is rented, then a rent agreement or NOC on stamp paper from the owner is required.
- Nature of business
- Email I’d and phone number of the applicant.
- If the applicant is a company then the company Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum of Association will also required
- FSSAI Declaration form
FOR CENTRAL LICENSE REGISTRATION
- Proof of the business address for which the license applies. If the property is rented, then a rent agreement or NOC on stamp paper from the owner is required.
- Nature of business
- Email I’d and phone number of the applicant.
- If the applicant is a company then the company Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum of Association will also required
- FSSAI Declaration form
- IE Code (Import Export Code) Certificate (mandatory for export and import categories)
- Authority letter on the company letterhead authorizing the concerned person to file the FSSAI application
- List of food categories intended to be manufactured (for manufacturers)
Note: If you are applying for the Manufacturing/Repacker category, please prepare the following additional documents:
- Photos of the manufacturing unit
- Plant layouts
- Details of the machinery used for production on your company letterhead (including capacity and horsepower details)
- Product details on your company letterhead
- Machinery details used for production on your company letterhead (including capacity and horsepower information)
- If your business involves a mineral water plant, a water test report is mandatory.
Who needs a FSSAI License?
- An FSSAI license is mandatory for any food production, manufacturing, processing, distribution, or trading business in India.
- Exporters and importers also need this license to handle goods.
- Additionally, manufacturers or traders of food or health supplements, nutraceuticals, foods for special dietary uses, and foods for special medical purposes must also obtain an FSSAI license.
Health Supplements, Nutraceuticals, Foods for Special Dietary Uses, Foods for Special Medical Purpose, Functional Foods, and Novel Food
What are the FSSAI License Benefits?
An FSSAI license is beneficial because it ensures that the food you produce or sell is safe to eat. It helps maintain high hygiene and quality standards, protecting people from unsafe or low-quality food.
Having this license also makes your business more trustworthy and credible. Plus, it’s legally required, so it helps you avoid fines and legal issues.
Renewal and Modification of FSSAI license
The renewal and modification of an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license are mandatory for businesses involved in food manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, and trade in India. Here’s a complete guide on how to go about both processes:
FSSAI License Renewal
When to Renew
- Timely Renewal: The FSSAI license should be renewed before its expiry date. It is advisable to apply for renewal 30-60 days before the expiry date.
- Late Renewal: If the renewal application is not filed within the stipulated time, a late fee of ₹100 per day will be levied until the renewal is processed.
Modification of FSSAI License
When to Modify
- Change in Business Address: If there is a change in the location of the business.
- Change in Business Name: If there is a change in the name of the business.
- Change in Category: If there is an addition or deletion of food categories/products.
- Other Changes: Any other significant change that affects the details mentioned in the license.
Key Points to Remember
- Keep Track of Expiry Dates: Ensure timely renewal to avoid penalties.
- Accurate Documentation: Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date to prevent delays.
Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, you can now submit these documents online, as the entire procedure to obtain an FSSAI license is conducted online. All you need to do is get in touch with our consultant at JustStart for proper guidance from our experts for FSSAI Compliances.
