FSSAI Registration

FSSAI License and FSSAI Registration

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex regulatory body responsible for ensuring food safety and hygiene in India. Every food business operator (FBO) must follow the regulations laid by FSSAI to operate legally within the country. FSSAI registration is a mandatory requirement and a critical step to ensure consumer trust and food safety.

What is FSSAI Registration?

FSSAI registration means receiving a license or legal approval to operate a food-related business in India. This license is provided by FSSAI. FSSAI which was established under The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and is the legal authority which offers a food license to all food business operators in India.

The registration is essential for all Food Business Operators (FBOs), including manufacturers, processors, packagers, distributors, and sellers and helps FBOs to comply with safety and quality standards, thus building consumer trust.

Which Food Business Operators (FBO) Need FSSAI Registration?

A Food Business Operator (FBO) is any individual or entity involved in the manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, or sale of food. This can include restaurants, street food vendors, online food sellers, and major food manufacturers.

According to the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, any business or person involved in food-related activities must obtain FSSAI registration. This includes:

• Small food vendors
• Large manufacturers
• Transporters and distributors
• Retailers, hotels, and restaurants
• Exporters and importers of food products

Why is FSSAI Registration Important?

FSSAI registration is crucial for several reasons:

• Legal Requirement: All food-related businesses must obtain a FSSAI license to operate legally in India. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, suspension, or closure of the business.
• Consumer Trust: Displaying an FSSAI license shows consumers that the business follows safety and hygiene standards, enhancing the credibility of the food product.
• Avoiding Penalties: Failure to register can result in hefty fines of up to ₹10 lakh, depending on the nature of the violation.
• Market Access: Many retail chains and online platforms require an FSSAI license before listing a food product.

Eligibility for FSSAI Registration

A food business must meet specific criteria based on the scale of operations to be eligible for FSSAI registration. Here’s a breakdown of eligibility requirements for different types of food businesses:

Food Manufacturers:

• Eligibility: All food manufacturing units, including those engaged in processing, packaging, or storing food products, must obtain an FSSAI registration or license.
• Types of food products covered: This includes packaged food, ready-to-eat products, beverages, and processed foods.
• Requirements: Manufacturers must have a food safety management plan, testing protocols, and hygiene standards.

Food Retailers:

• Eligibility: Food retailers, including supermarkets, grocery stores, restaurants, and canteens, need FSSAI registration based on annual turnover.
• Types of products covered: Fresh produce, processed foods, dairy products, and beverages.

Food Importers and Exporters

• Eligibility: Businesses importing or exporting food products must obtain a Central FSSAI License.
• Additional Requirements: In addition to the FSSAI license, they must have a valid Import-Export Code (IEC) from the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Types of FSSAI Registration

FSSAI offers three types of registration based on the size and scope of the food business:

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

The documents required for FSSAI registration vary depending on the size and type of the food business. Below is a list of the documents typically required:

Breakdown of Documents by Business Category

Business Registration Documents

To ensure compliance and to prove the legitimacy of the business, the following registration documents are mandatory:

• Company Registration Certificate: This document proves that your business is legally registered under the Companies Act, 2013 or other relevant legislation (such as the Partnership Act for partnership firms). It can be obtained from the Registrar of Companies (RoC) or other legal authorities responsible for registering businesses in India.
• PAN Card: The Permanent Account Number (PAN) is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric number issued to businesses and individuals by the Income Tax Department. It is essential for tax-related matters, including FSSAI registration. Every food business must submit its PAN card as part of the documentation.
• GST Registration Certificate: This certificate is required for businesses that exceed the turnover threshold for Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration. GST registration can be done online through the GST portal, and once registered, a unique GST Identification Number (GSTIN) is issued. This document is essential for FSSAI registration to demonstrate that the business complies with the national tax laws.

Food Safety Plan

A comprehensive Food Safety Plan is a critical document FSSAI requires to ensure that the business adheres to proper safety and hygiene standards. This plan outlines how the food business manages risks and prevents food contamination throughout the supply chain. It is based on international safety principles like HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and covers hygiene, processing standards, and quality control.

Requirements for a Comprehensive Food Safety Plan:

1. HACCP Principles: The HACCP system is a preventive approach to food safety, identifying potential hazards at every stage of food production. The food safety plan must highlight:

1. • Identification of critical control points (CCPs) where potential hazards (biological, chemical, or physical) can occur.

1. • Procedures for monitoring CCPs and corrective actions in case of deviations.

2. Hygiene Practices: The plan must outline the hygiene practices followed by the business, including:

1. • Cleaning and sanitation schedules for the food premises.

1. • Personal hygiene standards for food handlers, including handwashing protocols, protective clothing, and hygiene training.

3. Quality Control Measures: The plan should include details on how the business ensures that the food products meet quality standards, such as:

1. • Regular inspections and audits of equipment, machinery, and storage facilities.

1. • Product testing and sampling procedures to ensure safety.

1. • Methods for tracking and recalling unsafe products from the market if needed.

How to Create a Food Safety Plan:

• Consult food safety experts or refer to the FSSAI guidelines for HACCP standards to develop a robust plan.
• Include standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling, processing, and storing food products.
• Document cleaning schedules, staff hygiene policies, and procedures for handling customer complaints regarding food safety.
• This document can be self-prepared or developed in consultation with food safety consultants who understand the FSSAI requirements.

Other Documents

In addition to the core registration documents and food safety plan, certain other documents are required depending on the business operations and type of food products handled. These include:

1. Health and Hygiene Certificates for Food Handlers and Premises

FSSAI mandates that all employees involved in food handling must undergo health and hygiene checks to ensure they are free from infectious diseases. Additionally, the premises where food is handled must be certified as sanitary and safe.

• How to Obtain:
• • Health certificates can be obtained from government-approved medical practitioners.

• • Regular inspections by the local health authorities ensure that the business premises meet the hygiene standards set by FSSAI.

2. Laboratory Test Reports for Food Products (If Applicable)

Lab test reports are required to certify that the food products meet FSSAI safety standards for businesses manufacturing or selling processed or packaged food. These tests assess the chemical composition, quality, and safety of the food, including the presence of any harmful substances.

• How to Obtain:

• • Food samples must be sent to an FSSAI-accredited laboratory for testing. After evaluating the food’s composition, laboratories can provide detailed test reports.

• • This is especially important for businesses producing beverages, processed foods, or dairy products.

3. NOC from Local Authorities (If Required)

A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from local municipal or health authorities is sometimes required, especially for businesses operating in certain areas or handling sensitive products like dairy, meat, or seafood.

• How to Obtain:

• • You can obtain the NOC by applying to the local municipal corporation or health department.

• • This certificate assures the business complies with local health and safety regulations, such as waste disposal, pollution control, and cleanliness.

FSSAI Registration Process

The FSSAI registration process can be completed online or offline, depending on the convenience of the food business operator. Here’s a step-by-step guide to both methods:

Online Registration Process

1. Visit the Official FSSAI FoSCoS Portal:
   • Go to the FoSCoS Portal, the official FSSAI registration and licensing platform.

2. Create an Account:
   • Select the “Sign Up” option to create an account. Then, provide details like your name, business type, and contact information to create a profile on the portal.

3. Fill Out the Application Form:
   • Once your account is created, log in and choose the relevant FSSAI registration type (Basic, State, or Central) based on your business turnover and operations.
   • Please complete the online application form with details about your business, such as your business name, address, type of food business, and product categories.

4. Upload Required Documents:
   • You must submit scanned copies of the necessary documents (e.g., PAN card, business registration, food safety plan, etc.). Ensure all documents are in the correct format and size as the portal specifies.

5. Pay the Registration Fees:
   • The registration fees depend on the type of registration. Payment can be made online via net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI. The portal provides a secure payment gateway for this purpose.

6. Submit the Application:
   • Once the form is completed and the documents are uploaded, submit the application for processing. The portal will provide an acknowledgement receipt for future reference.

Offline Registration Process

FSSAI also allows registration through offline methods, such as visiting the local FSSAI office. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Visit the Nearest FSSAI Office:
   • Locate the nearest FSSAI regional office and visit during working hours to initiate the registration process. The regional offices are listed on the FSSAI website.
2. Fill in the Application Form:

• Obtain the appropriate Form A (for Basic registration) or Form B (for State and Central licenses) from the office.  
• Provide the required information, such as the business type, ownership details, address, and nature of food products or services. Ensure that the information is accurate, as discrepancies can cause delays in processing.

3. Submit Required Documents:

• Attach physical copies of the necessary documents, including the business registration certificate, PAN card, proof of premises, and food safety plan. All documents must be current and correctly verified.

4. Pay Registration Fees:

• Payment for registration can be made via cheque, demand draft, or cash at the office. The amount varies based on the type of license you are applying for.

5. Submit the Application:

• Apply at the office after completing the form and attaching all required documents. You will receive a receipt confirming the submission.

After successful review and approval, you will be issued the FSSAI registration certificate, which you can collect from the office.

FSSAI Registration Status Check

The FSSAI FoSCoS portal allows you to easily check the status of your FSSAI registration application. Simply log in using your credentials and track the progress of your application.

How to Download the FSSAI Registration Certificate from the FoSCoS Portal

Once your FSSAI registration is approved, the registration certificate can be downloaded from the FoSCoS portal. Log in to your account, navigate to the “Issued Licenses” section, and download the certificate.

How to Renew Your FSSAI License?

An FSSAI license is valid for 1 to 5 years. To avoid penalties, renewing the license before it expires is essential. The renewal process is similar to the initial registration process and can be done via the FoSCoS portal or by visiting an FSSAI office.

FSSAI Registration Fees

FSSAI registration fees vary depending on the type of registration:

Additional charges may apply depending on the nature of the business and any testing required during the application process.

Click here to check the license fees for specific businesses. 

FSSAI Registration Time

The processing time for FSSAI registration typically ranges from 7 to 60 days, depending on factors such as:

• Completeness of the application.
• Timely submission of required documents.
• Compliance with FSSAI’s food safety standards.

Penalties for Doing Business Without FSSAI Registration

Adherence to FSSAI guidelines is critical for food business operators. This includes complying with food safety guidelines and proper authorization. Hence, unless an individual is exempted under sub-section (2) of section 31 of governing Act, failure to run food-related activities or business without valid FSSAI registration / license can lead to below penalties.

• Fines: Up to ₹10 lakh, depending on the nature of violation.
• Imprisonment: In extreme negligence resulting in unsafe food production, imprisonment may be imposed.
• Business Shutdown: FSSAI can suspend or cancel the business’s operations until compliance is achieved.

Tips for a Smooth FSSAI Registration Process

• Prepare all documents in advance: Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready before starting the application process.
• Provide accurate information: Ensure the information provided in the application is correct and complete to avoid delays.
• Track your application: Follow up with FSSAI for any updates or queries regarding the registration process.
• Seek professional help: If facing difficulties, consider consulting with experts or legal professionals specialising in FSSAI registration.

Frequently Asked Questions