Obtaining an FSSAI license is a legal necessity for any food business operating in India. The FSSAI license fee is integral to this process, ensuring food businesses comply with safety standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Whether you are a food manufacturer, retailer, or importer/exporter, understanding the structure and payment process of the FSSAI license fee is crucial for budgeting and legal compliance. This blog will provide a detailed breakdown of the fee structure, factors affecting the fees, and payment methods to help businesses stay informed and compliant.
What is the FSSAI License Fee?
The FSSAI license fee refers to the charges imposed by the FSSAI for issuing licenses to food businesses across India. These fees help fund the regulatory body’s operations, ensuring that food safety standards are upheld across the supply chain. The FSSAI license fee will vary depending on the size, type, and scale of the food business.
Type of FSSAI Licences
License Type | Eligibility | Who Should Apply |
Basic Registration | Turnover up to ₹12 lakh | Small food manufacturers, petty retailers, hawkers, home-based businesses |
State License | Turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore | Medium-sized businesses, manufacturers, storage facilities, transporters, and food packaging units |
Central License | Turnover over ₹20 crore or food exports | Large-scale manufacturers, importers/exporters, businesses operating in multiple states |
Factors Affecting FSSAI License Fee
Several factors determine the FSSAI license fee structure, including the type of food business, its annual turnover, and the nature of the food products handled. Below are the major categories of food businesses and how the license fee is structured for each:
Food Manufacturers
Food manufacturers must pay an FSSAI license fee based on their production capacity and the category of food products they manufacture. The higher the fee, the larger the production scale.
Food Retailers
The FSSAI license fee for food retailers depends on factors like the size of the retail outlet, location, and type of products sold. Larger retail chains will likely require a State or central license, while smaller retailers may qualify for Basic Registration.
Food Importers/Exporters
Due to the international nature of their operations, food importers and exporters are required to obtain a Central FSSAI License. The license fee is largely influenced by the volume of food products they import or export and their geographical spread.
FSSAI License Fee Structure Breakdown
Annual License Fee
The annual FSSAI license fee is calculated based on the size and type of the food business. For example, a small cloud kitchen with a turnover under ₹12 lakh will pay ₹100 annually, while a large-scale food manufacturer with a turnover exceeding ₹20 crore will need to pay ₹7500 annually.
Type | Central License (1 Year) | State license (1 Year) | FSSAI Registration (1 Year) | Konkan/Indian Railway (1 Year) |
New Application | Rs.7500 | Rs.2000- 5000 | Rs.100 | Rs.2000 |
Renewal Application | Rs.7500 | Rs.2000- 5000 | Rs.100 | Rs.2000 |
Modification of License/Certificate | Rs.7500 | Rs.2000- 5000 | Rs.100 | Rs.2000 |
Duplicate License/Certificate | 10% of the Applicable License Fee | 10% of the Applicable License Fee | 10% of the Applicable Certificate Fee | 10% of the Applicable Certificate Fee |
The official FSSAI document detailing the FSSAI License Fee Structure based on different business types is provided for reference and can be accessed for more comprehensive information. Click here to access.
Additional Fees in the FSSAI License Process
Food businesses may incur additional fees beyond the standard FSSAI license fee in some instances. These can include:
- Late Renewal Penalties: If a business fails to renew its license on time, a daily penalty (typically ₹100 per day) is imposed.
- Duplicate License Fee: If a duplicate license is required due to loss or damage, 10% of the original license fee is applicable.
FSSAI License Fee Calculator
To simplify the process of estimating FSSAI license fees, the FSSAI provides an FSSAI license fee calculator on its official portal. This tool allows food business operators to input details like their turnover, business type, and license tenure to calculate the fee they must pay. This can be a helpful resource for businesses to plan their budget and ensure timely payments.
How to Pay FSSAI License Fees
There are two primary methods for paying the FSSAI license fee: online and offline.
Online Payment
- Visit the FoSCoS FSSAI portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in).
- Select the license type, input your details, and upload the required documents.
- After reviewing the application, proceed to the payment section.
- Use a debit/credit card or net banking to pay the fee online.
- Once payment is successful, you’ll receive an acknowledgement.
Offline Payment
- Obtain the challan form from the FSSAI office or download it from the official portal.
- Fill out the form and visit an authorized bank branch to make the payment.
- Submit the payment receipt along with your application to the regional FSSAI office.
FSSAI License Fee Due Date
The due date for the FSSAI license fee typically coincides with the application or renewal process. It is essential to pay the fee on time to avoid penalties. Late payments may incur additional charges, and repeated delays can result in the suspension or cancellation of the license. Renewal fees must be paid at least 30 days before the license expiration to avoid complications.
Conclusion
- Understanding and paying the correct FSSAI license fee is crucial for any food business in India.
- The fee structure is designed to reflect the size and type of the business, ensuring fair regulation and food safety compliance.
- By understanding the FSSAI license fee structure and paying fees on time, food business operators can maintain compliance with FSSAI regulations and avoid penalties.
FAQs
What are FSSAI license fees?
These are charges levied by FSSAI for issuing food business licenses, depending on turnover and business type.
How are FSSAI license fees calculated?
Fees are calculated based on annual turnover, business size, and food category. The FSSAI HelpDesk has a fee structure for FSSAI licenses.
What factors affect FSSAI license fees?
The key factors are the type of business (manufacturer, retailer, importer), annual turnover, and location.
What is the due date for the FSSAI license fee payment?
The due date is aligned with the license application or renewal. Fees must be paid before the current license expires to avoid penalties.
How can I pay FSSAI license fees online?
You can pay online via the FoSCoS FSSAI portal using debit/credit cards or net banking.
Are there any exemptions from FSSAI license fees?
No, all food businesses, regardless of size, must pay an applicable fee to obtain an FSSAI license.
What is the income limit for an FSSAI license?
Basic Registration applies to businesses with a turnover of less than ₹12 lakh annually, while larger businesses need to apply for State or Central licenses based on their revenue.
