FSSAI Registration is used for Indian foods and tests fame accepted in worldwide in multiple variety. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the concerned body responsible for regulating and supervising food safety in India. Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI Registration makes sure that food products undergo quality checks, thereby curtailing food adulteration and sale of substandard products. For any food business operator (FBO) in India, obtaining FSSAI registration or license is mandatory to operate legally. I think FSSAI Registration is very important for maintain a standard food recipe test with hygienic.    

Types of FSSAI Licenses

FSSAI offers three types of licenses based on the scale and nature of the food business:

1. Basic Registration: For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
2. State License: For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
3. Central License: For large businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or those involved in import/export activities.

Eligibility Criteria

• Basic Registration: Petty food manufacturers, small retailers, hawkers, itinerant vendors, or temporary stallholders with an annual turnover not exceeding ₹12 lakhs.
• State License: Mid-sized manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, or distributors with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
• Central License: Large-scale manufacturers, importers, exporters, operators in central government agencies, airports, seaports, or those with operations in multiple states and an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.

Online Registration Process via FoSCoS

The Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS Registration) is the online portal introduced by FSSAI to streamline the registration and licensing process. Follow these steps to register online:

1. Access the FoSCoS Portal: Visit the official FoSCoS website: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/.
2. Sign Up/Login: If you’re a new user, click on ‘Sign Up’ and provide the necessary details to create an account. Existing users can log in using their credentials.
3. Application Selection: Choose the appropriate application type—’Registration’ for Basic Registration or ‘License’ for State/Central License.
4. Form Completion: Fill out Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State and Central Licenses) with accurate business details.
5. Document Upload: Upload the required documents in the specified formats.
6. Fee Payment: Pay the applicable fee online through the available payment modes.
7. Submission: Review the application and submit it. An acknowledgment with a unique reference number will be generated for future tracking.

Required Documents

• Basic Registration:
  • Passport-sized photograph
  • Government-issued photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID)
  • Proof of business premises (e.g., utility bill, rent agreement)
• State and Central Licenses:
  • Form B duly completed and signed
  • Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit
  • List of directors/partners/proprietor with address and contact details
  • Name and list of equipment and machinery
  • List of food categories to be manufactured
  • Authority letter with name and address of responsible person
  • Analysis report of water to be used in the process
  • Proof of possession of premises (e.g., sale deed, rent agreement)
  • Food safety management system plan or certificate
  • NOC from the municipality or local body
  • Supporting documents (e.g., IEC for importers, Ministry of Tourism certificate for hotels)

Fee Structure

• Basic Registration: ₹100 per annum.
• State License: Ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per annum, depending on the nature of the business.
• Central License: ₹7,500 per annum.

Processing Time

• Basic Registration: Typically issued within 7 days.
• State and Central Licenses: May take up to 60 days, including scrutiny and inspection.

Validity and Renewal

FSSAI licenses are valid for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years, as chosen by the FBO during application. It’s advisable to apply for FSSAI Registration Renewal at least 30 days before the expiry date to avoid penalties.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating without a valid FSSAI license can lead to severe penalties, including:

• Monetary Fines: Up to ₹5 lakhs, depending on the nature of the offense.
• Imprisonment: Up to 6 months for serious violations.

Benefits of FSSAI Registration

• Legal Benefits: Make sure compliance with the law, avoiding legal issues.
• Consumer Trust: Enhances credibility and trust among consumers.
• Business Expansion: Facilitates business growth and expansion opportunities.
• Quality Assurance: Make sure faithfulness to food safety standards, improving product quality.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Documentation Errors: Make sure all documents are accurate and up-to-date to prevent application rejection.
• Technical Issues: For any technical difficulties on the FoSCoS Certification portal, contact the FSSAI helpdesk at 1800-11-2100 or email helpdesk-foscos@fssai.gov.in.
• Delayed Inspections: Follow up with the designated officer if inspections are delayed beyond the stipulated time.

Final Remark

Obtaining FSSAI registration or license is a key step for any food business in India. It not only makes sure legal compliance but also builds consumer trust and enhances business credibility. Subsequently the outlined steps and maintaining observance to food safety standards, FBOs can operate smoothly and contribute to a safer food ecosystem in the country. Learn More