In the realm of India’s food industry, obtaining the necessary FSSAI License and Registration is not just a legal requirement; it’s a mark of trust, quality, and compliance. Whether you’re a budding food entrepreneur or a well-established food business operator (FBO), ensuring your FSSAI compliance is paramount. Aggarwal M & Associates is your trusted partner in simplifying the complex process of acquiring FSSAI licenses and registrations, helping you harness the benefits of legal compliance while focusing on your food business’s growth.
Understanding the Legal Framework
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the governing authority that mandates FSSAI License and Registration for all FBOs in India. These licenses and registrations are regulated by the Food Safety & Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Business) Regulations, 2011, under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Who Requires FSSAI Registration or License?
FSSAI Registration or License is a prerequisite for various food businesses in India, including:
- Petty retailers, Retail Shops, Snack Shops, Confectionery or Bakery Shops.
- Temporary and fixed stalls involved in food preparation, storage, distribution, and sales.
- Hawkers selling packaged or freshly prepared food.
- Dairy Units, including Milk Chilling Units, Milk Vendors, and Petty Milkmen.
- Slaughtering houses.
- Fish and Meat Processing Units.
- All Food Manufacturing Units, including Repacking businesses.
- Vegetable Oil Processing Units.
- Proprietary and Novel food producers.
- Cold/Refrigerated storage facilities.
- Transporters of food products with specialized vehicles.
- Wholesalers, suppliers, distributors, and marketers of food products.
- Hotels, Restaurants, Bars.
- Canteens, Cafeterias, and Food Vending Agencies.
- Importers and Exporters of food items and ingredients.
- E-commerce food suppliers, including cloud kitchens.
Eligibility Criteria for Food Business Registration/License
The eligibility criteria for FSSAI Registration and License depend on factors such as turnover, production capacity, and type of food business. Here’s a breakdown:
- FSSAI Registration: This is required for petty food manufacturers or FBOs with a turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakhs, provided they meet specific conditions related to production capacity, procurement of milk, and slaughtering capacity.
- FSSAI License: Businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 12 lakhs or those engaged in food processing and manufacturing must obtain an FSSAI License. FSSAI Licenses are categorized as Central or State Licenses based on the size of the business.
Difference Between FSSAI Registration and License
Here’s a quick comparison:
- FSSAI Registration: For businesses with an annual turnover below Rs. 12 lakhs.
- FSSAI License: For businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 12 lakhs, categorized as Central or State Licenses.
Benefits of Procuring FSSAI Food License
Acquiring an FSSAI License offers numerous advantages:
- Legal Compliance: It ensures compliance with food safety and standards regulations, protecting your business from legal hassles.
- Food Safety: FSSAI ensures that food products meet safety standards, reassuring customers about product quality.
- Building Goodwill: An FSSAI license signifies your commitment to food safety, enhancing your brand’s reputation.
- Consumer Awareness: Displaying the FSSAI logo on products informs consumers of compliance, fostering trust.
- Business Expansion: FSSAI licenses are often prerequisites for expanding your food business or attracting investors.
- Quality Assurance: The FSSAI logo on food products signifies adherence to quality standards, reassuring customers.
Validity of FSSAI License/Registration
FSSAI License and Registration are issued for a minimum of one year and a maximum of five years. Renewal must be initiated 30 days before the current certificate’s expiry.
Fee Structure
The fee structure for FSSAI License and Registration varies based on factors like turnover and type of license/registration. Fees range from Rs. 100 per year for basic registration to Rs. 7,500 per year for specific licenses.
Documents Required
The documents required for obtaining FSSAI License and Registration include identity proofs, proof of address, photographs, and specific documents related to your food business. The complete list can be provided by M Aggarwal & Associates.
Procedure to Apply for FSSAI License and Registration
Aggarwal M & Associates simplifies the application process:
- Signup: Create an account on the Food Safety and Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal.
- Select Application Type: Choose between New Registration, Renewal, or Modification of License.
- Fill Details: Provide essential details about your food business, including communication information.
- Upload Documents: Submit the required documents and pay the applicable fee.
- Application Submission: After payment, your application will be submitted, and you’ll receive a reference number for future correspondence.
FSSAI Penalty and Offenses
The FSSAI Act prescribes penalties for offenses such as manufacturing, selling, storing, or distributing food without a valid FSSAI permit. Penalties can include imprisonment and fines.
At Aggarwal M & Associates, we simplify the complex landscape of FSSAI License and Registration, ensuring that your food business meets all compliance requirements. Let us be your trusted partner in navigating the world of food safety and standards, allowing you to focus on what you do best – providing quality food products to consumers. Don’t compromise on compliance; contact us today and embark on a journey of culinary success with confidence and trust in FSSAI compliance.