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Overview

FSSAI Registration (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India)

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food safety standards across the country under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. FSSAI registration or licensing is mandatory for businesses involved in the food sector, including manufacturers, processors, transporters, distributors, and retailers. It ensures that food products meet quality standards to protect public health. Depending on the business size and turnover, food businesses must apply for either an FSSAI Registration (for smaller businesses) or an FSSAI License (for medium and large businesses)

Why Registration is Important

  1. Legal Compliance Enables lawful operation in the food industry, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards
  2. Consumer Trust An FSSAI license or registration builds credibility, enhancing customer trust in the safety of food products.
  3. Market Expansion FSSAI registration facilitates partnerships with retailers, suppliers, and distributors who require FSSAI-compliant suppliers
  4. Access to Government Benefits Registered food businesses can benefit from government schemes and subsidies.
  5. Product Recall and Safety Compliance FSSAI registration enforces standards that help in managing food safety risks, quality checks, and recalls if necessary

Types of FSSAI Registration and License

  1. Basic FSSAI Registration : Required for small food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh. This is usually applicable for petty food manufacturers, small retailers, and transporters.
  2. State FSSAI License : Mandatory for medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore, including small to medium food manufacturers, storage units, transporters, and distributors.
  3. Central FSSAI License: : Required for large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crore or for those involved in import/export of food products, largescale manufacturing, and e-commerce operators. This license is issued by the central FSSAI authority

Documents Required

For Basic FSSAI Registration

For State and Central FSSAI License

Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)


Features

Features & Benefits FSSAI Registration

License Number Display
All FSSAI-registered businesses must display the FSSAI license number on product packaging and premises.
Renewable License
FSSAI licenses are valid for 1-5 years and can be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties.
Food Safety Compliance
FSSAI ensures compliance with hygiene and safety regulations to protect consumers.
Single-Window Online System
FoSCoS portal enables online application, tracking, and management of licenses.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Unregistered food businesses are subject to fines, penalties, and possible legal action

FSSAI

Scope for Multiple Product Categories
A single FSSAI registration or license can cover multiple food products, making it flexible for businesses.
License Upgradation
Businesses can upgrade from Basic Registration to State or Central License as they grow.
Consumer Confidence
An FSSAI-compliant business reassures customers about the safety and quality of food products
Supports Exports
An FSSAI license is often necessary for exporting food products from India.
Access to Training Programs
FSSAI offers food safety training and capacity-building programs to help businesses maintain high standards.

Comparison of EPF vs. Non-EPF Registered Benefits

Feature Basic FSSAI Registration State FSSAI License Central FSSAI License
Turnover Limit Up to ₹12 lakh ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore Above ₹20 crore
Applicable for Small retailers, petty manufacturers Medium-sized food businesses Large manufacturers, importers
Issued By Local FSSAI authority State FSSAI authority Central FSSAI authority
Inspection Not usually required Required in most cases Required in most cases
Scope of Operation Local State-wide Nationwide
Validity 1-5 years 1-5 years 1-5 years
Renewal Requirement Yes Yes Yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs FSSAI registration?

Any business involved in the manufacture, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, or sale of food products needs FSSAI registration or a license.

What is the difference between FSSAI registration and FSSAI license?

FSSAI registration is for small-scale food businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakh, while FSSAI licenses (State and Central) are for medium and largescale businesses

How long does it take to get an FSSAI license?

Basic Registration takes 7-10 days, while State and Central Licenses may take 15-45 days, depending on inspections and verification.

Is it mandatory to display the FSSAI license number?

Yes, the FSSAI license number must be displayed on the product packaging and at the business premises

What happens if an FSSAI license expires?

If an FSSAI license expires without renewal, the business may face penalties, and operations may be suspended until the license is renewed.

Can a single FSSAI license cover multiple food products?

Yes, a single FSSAI registration/license can cover multiple food products handled by the same business.