How to fssai license

What is an FSSAI License?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. Its primary role is to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption. A FSSAI license, often referred to as a food license, is a certification issued by the FSSAI to food business operators (FBOs) in India. This license is a testament that your food business adheres to the standards and regulations laid down by the FSSAI, ensuring food safety and quality.

Every individual or entity engaged in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI license or registration. This is mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The license aims to create a level playing field for businesses by ensuring that all players adhere to stringent food safety norms, thereby protecting public health.

Types of FSSAI Licenses/Registrations

The type of FSSAI license or registration required depends on the turnover, scale of operation, and geographical presence of the food business. There are broadly three categories:

1. Basic Registration (Form A): This is for small food businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 Lakhs. This includes petty retailers, hawkers, small manufacturers, and food stall owners. The registration is done at the sub-divisional or district level.

2. State License (Form B): This license is required for businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 Lakhs and ₹20 Crores. It is issued by the state food safety departments. This category covers medium-sized manufacturers, processors, transporters, storers, retailers, and restaurants.

3. Central License (Form B): This is for large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 Crores. It is issued by the Central Government, typically for businesses involved in import/export, large manufacturers, food chain units, and entities operating across multiple states.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an FSSAI license, the applicant must be a registered entity in India and comply with the general food safety requirements. Specific requirements might vary based on the type of food business, such as:

• Manufacturers: Must have adequate processing capacity and quality control measures.
• Restaurants/Hotels: Must have proper hygiene, waste disposal, and pest control systems.
• Transporters: Must have vehicles suitable for food transport to maintain temperature and prevent contamination.
• Storers: Must have appropriate storage facilities to prevent spoilage and contamination.

Application Process

The FSSAI license application process is now predominantly online through the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal, which replaced the older FLRS (Food Licensing and Registration System). Here are the general steps:

1. Registration on FoSCoS: Visit the official FoSCoS website (foscos.fssai.gov.in) and create an account.
2. Choose License Type: Select the appropriate license type (Basic Registration, State, or Central) based on your business requirements.
3. Fill Application Form: Complete the online application form with accurate details about your business, including name, address, type of food business, list of food products handled, and production capacity.
4. Upload Documents: Submit the required supporting documents. These typically include:
   • Identity proof of the proprietor/partners/directors (e.g., Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License).
   • Address proof of the business premises (e.g., Rent agreement, Property tax receipt, Electricity bill).
   • Partnership deed/Memorandum of Association/Articles of Association, if applicable.
   • List of food products manufactured/processed.
   • Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit (for manufacturers).
   • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local authority (in some cases).
   • Details of food safety management systems (e.g., HACCP, ISO).
   • Photographs of the premises.
5. Pay Application Fee: A nominal fee is associated with the application, which varies based on the license type and duration.
6. Inspection (if applicable): For State and Central licenses, an inspection of the premises by an FSSAI official might be conducted to verify compliance with safety and hygiene standards.
7. Approval and Issuance: Once the application is verified and all requirements are met, the FSSAI license/registration certificate will be issued electronically.

Processing Time and Validity

The processing time for an FSSAI license can vary. Basic Registrations are usually processed within 7-15 days. State licenses typically take 30-45 days, while Central licenses might take up to 60 days. The FSSAI license is generally valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant's choice during the application. It is crucial to renew the license before its expiry to avoid penalties and ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Importance of FSSAI License

Obtaining an FSSAI license is not just a legal requirement but also a mark of credibility and commitment to food safety. It:

• Ensures compliance with national food safety standards.
• Builds consumer trust and confidence in your products.
• Facilitates access to markets and financial institutions.
• Helps in preventing food adulteration and contamination.
• Promotes a culture of hygiene and safety within the food industry.

In conclusion, securing an FSSAI license is a fundamental step for any food business operating in India. The online application process through FoSCoS has streamlined the procedure, making it more accessible for entrepreneurs and businesses to comply with food safety regulations.