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FSSAI Compliance Services
FSSAI License
FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. Individuals running any food business, including traders, manufacturers, grocery shops, small eateries, food businesses based in homes, exporters, and importers need an FSSAI registration.
It is also mandatory for dairy firms, e-tailers, retailers, food processors, re-labelers, re-packers, restaurants, caterers, food transporters, storage units, wholesalers, hoteliers, etc.
Every individual involved in the food business in some way or the other has to obtain a registration number, consisting of 14 digits.
This food license number has to be displayed on their business premises, or printed on food packages.
The FSSAI license number, consisting of 14 digits, provides information about the enrolment subtle elements or permit of the producer, along with the assembling state.
It might be challenging for businesses to understand the regulations for registration and licensing from FSSAI. FBOs reach out to the regulatory consultant to simplify the process.
Types of FSSAI License
- FSSAI Basic License Startups and small businesses, with an annual turnover under INR 12 lakhs should go for this basic registration. When you have significant sales, you can upgrade it to a state license later.
FSSAI State license Mid-sized companies should opt for the FSSAI state license. In these companies, the annual turnover can be anything between INR 12 crore to INR 20 crore.
FSSAI Central license Large business houses, where the annual turnover is more than INR 20 crores would need the central license from FSSAI. Besides, you would need this license if you have to supply at the offices of the government. Besides, businesses which export or import food products, or run in more than two states would need an FSSAI central license.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the different Licenses required to conduct different kind of food business activities at the same premise?
Yes, different licenses are often required for various food business activities at the same premise. Common licenses include Food Establishment License, Health Department Permit, Food Handler’s Permit, Alcohol License (if serving alcohol), Catering License, Food Truck License, Special Event Permit, and Occupancy Permit. Requirements vary by location, so it’s essential to check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits for each specific business activity. Consulting with local authorities or a legal professional can help ensure compliance.
Who are petty food business operators? What is the eligibility for FSSAI registration certificate?
My License/Registration is suspended or cancelled. Do I need to stop food business activities?
Yes, if your food license/registration is suspended or canceled, you must immediately cease food business activities. Resolve the issues with the regulatory authority, reapply if necessary, and ensure compliance to avoid legal consequences.
Who will issue license to food business operators under railways premise?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for issuing licenses to food business operators under railway premises.
Who will issue the FSSAI license to food business operators under Airport/Seaport premise?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for issuing licenses to food business operators under airport/seaport premises..
What are the types of FSSAI registrations?
FSSAI registrations come in three types: Basic for small businesses, State License for medium-sized enterprises, and Central License for large-scale operations.
I have pulses/grains milling unit. What kind of license do I need to obtain?
Whether License from FSSAI is required for export?
Yes, an FSSAI license is required for exporting food products from India. The type of license (Basic, State, or Central) depends on the scale of your export operations. Always ensure compliance with FSSAI regulations and check destination countries’ requirements.
In what circumstances applications will be rejected?
Applications for licenses from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) may be rejected under various circumstances, including:
Incomplete Information: If the application is not filled out completely or if required documents are missing.
Non-Compliance: Failure to meet the specified hygiene and safety standards or non-compliance with regulations.
Incorrect Information: Providing false or inaccurate information in the application can lead to rejection.
Failure to Rectify Issues: If the applicant does not address deficiencies or issues pointed out by the regulatory authority.
Non-Payment of Fees: Failure to pay the required fees associated with the application.
Violation of Regulations: Previous violations or non-compliance with food safety regulations may lead to rejection.
Prohibited Ingredients: Use of prohibited ingredients in food products.
It’s crucial to thoroughly review and comply with the FSSAI guidelines, provide accurate information, and address any issues or concerns raised by the regulatory authorities to avoid rejection of the application. Always check the latest regulations and requirements when applying for an FSSAI license.
Do pharmacies and medical stores need to apply for a FSSAI license or registration if they are selling Health supplements or Nutraceutical products?
As of last update in January 2022, pharmacies and medical stores selling health supplements or nutraceutical products typically need to obtain an FSSAI license or registration. The specific type of license (Basic, State, or Central) depends on the scale of the business and its annual turnover.
Health supplements and nutraceutical products fall under the category of “Food” according to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Therefore, businesses involved in selling these products are generally required to comply with FSSAI regulations.
It’s important to note that regulations may evolve, and it’s advisable to check the latest guidelines from the FSSAI or consult with local health authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding licensing requirements for pharmacies and medical stores dealing with health supplements or nutraceutical products.
What is the FSSAI License requirement to run a food business in more than one state with same name of the company or organization?
If you intend to run a food business in more than one state with the same name, you typically need to obtain a Central FSSAI License. The Central License is applicable for food businesses that operate in multiple states and ensures compliance with food safety regulations at a national level.
When applying for the Central License, you will need to specify the list of states where your food business operates. This license is suitable for large-scale operations that have a presence in multiple states.
Always check the latest guidelines and requirements from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure compliance and obtain the necessary license for your specific situation.
We manufacture only food additives. Do I needa license from FSSAI too?
Yes, if you manufacture only food additives, you still need to obtain a license from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Food additives fall within the scope of FSSAI regulations, and any entity involved in the manufacturing of food additives must comply with these regulations to ensure the safety and quality of the products.
What is the maximum period for which FSSAI License/Registration can be applied?
Do I need to register/ mention all food products in FSSAI License which I manufacture or process in my food premise?
Yes, when obtaining an FSSAI license, you need to register and mention all the food products you manufacture or process in your food premise to ensure regulatory compliance. Update the license if there are changes or additions to your product offerings.
How to identify the category of FSSAI License/Registration by number?
The FSSAI license or registration number is designed to convey specific information about the category and location of the food business. The FSSAI license number is typically a 14-digit number, and you can identify the category using the following format:
Basic License:
- The 14-digit FSSAI number for a basic license starts with “100.”
State License:
- The 14-digit FSSAI number for a state license starts with the two-digit state code, followed by “0” (zero), and then a unique 13-digit number.
Central License:
- The 14-digit FSSAI number for a central license starts with “1” (indicating central), followed by a unique 13-digit number.
To break it down:
- For a state license, the first two digits indicate the state code.
- For a central license, the first digit is “1” to indicate central.
For example, a state license number for a business in the state of Maharashtra might start with “27” (Maharashtra’s state code), followed by “0” and the unique 13-digit number.
It’s important to note that the FSSAI number may have undergone changes or updates, so always refer to the latest guidelines from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for accurate information.
Do I need to file annual return for my food business activities?
Yes, you need to file an annual return for your food business activities with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Check the specific requirements and deadlines based on your business type and scale.
What is the penalty for late or non-submission of annual returns?
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the penalty for late or non-submission of annual returns to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) can vary. Penalties are typically levied for non-compliance with regulatory requirements, and they may include fines or other consequences.
The specific penalties for late or non-submission of annual returns can be outlined in the FSSAI regulations or guidelines. These regulations may be subject to updates, and it’s crucial to check the latest information from the FSSAI or consult with local authorities to understand the current penalties for non-compliance.
To avoid penalties, it’s important to adhere to the specified deadlines and requirements for filing annual returns and other regulatory submissions related to your food business activitieS.