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FSSAI Registration & License: Online Application for Food Business Operators (FBOs)
At ComplifyXpert, we understand the challenges businesses face in navigating regulatory compliance and securing an FSSAI food license. The process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring substantial effort, resources, and expertise. Our expert team is here to make this process seamless for you. With our comprehensive services, we guide you through every step of the FSSAI online registration process, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
- Difficulty selecting the correct FSSAI type (Basic, State, or Central).
- Unclear document list and frequent rejections for minor errors.
- Long approval time due to local authority inspection delays.
- Renewal or modification process confusion.
- Lack of understanding about annual FSSAI compliance and returns.
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What is FSSAI and Why is it Important?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, FSSAI, is a registered government body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare that ensures food safety and hygiene in India. It directs food businesses to ensure they operate with safety standards to protect public health.
Importance of FSSAI Registration
- Legal Compliance: FSSAI registration is compulsory for every kind of food business running in India.
- Consumer Trust: Displays a commitment to quality, building customer trust.
- Market Opportunities: Enables businesses to expand operations, including partnerships with platforms like Swiggy and Zomato.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food-related businesses, small or large. FSSAI demands this registration to ensure food safety and adherence to regulations. Here's a detailed list of different niches that require FSSAI registration or licensing:
1. Food Manufacturers
This category encompasses businesses engaged in the manufacture or processing of food products. Some examples include:
- Food Processing Units: Businesses that manufacture packaged food products, such as snack foods, biscuits, or ready-to-eat foods.
- Dairy and Milk Product Manufacturers: Businesses processing milk and manufacturing cheese, butter, or curd.
- Bakery Units: Businesses manufacturing bread, cakes, pastries, etc.
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
Ensure that food manufactured is hygienic and only permissible additives are used so that no health risk is caused to the consumer.
2. Food Traders and Wholesalers
Businesses that sell and distribute food products require FSSAI registration to ensure compliance throughout the chain.
- Wholesalers: Large quantity sellers selling their products to retailers.
- Importers and Exporters: Those dealing in international food trade.
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
Track food safety from the source to the end consumer, so accountability at every level.
3. Restaurants and Cafes
All food establishments that prepare and serve food, such as:
- Fine dining restaurants.
- Small eatery outlets or dhabas.
- Cafes and fast food outlets
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
Customers are assured about the quality and safety of food outlets, which would increase trust and credibility in the food service sector.
4. Cloud Kitchens
Cloud kitchens are food business establishments that deliver their offerings without a dine-in facility. They are gaining popularity due to portals such as Swiggy and Zomato.
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
To ensure food safety compliance while operating remotely and delivering large volumes.
Registration is essential to partner with the delivery platforms and gain consumer trust.
5. Caterers and Event Managers
Catering services for weddings, corporate meetings, or festivals must be registered.
Why They Need FSSAI Registration:
Caterers prepare food for large consumption, so adherence to the FSSAI would be crucial for avoiding health complications in large congregations.
6. Warehouse and Godowns
FSSAI registration is mandatory for cold storage units, grain warehouses or vegetable storage units, that stores food products
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
Food items must be preserved in sound condition so that these food products do not deteriorate or become polluted during storage.
7. Transporter of Food Articles
An organization that transports food items, such as milk tankers, refrigerators, frozen foodstuffs, and grain and oil seed tankers.
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
To ensure hygiene levels are maintained during transportation, particularly for perishables like milk, meat, or frozen products.
8. Food Retailers
Retailers that sell food to the end consumers include;
- Supermarkets and grocery stores.
- Kirana shops and other small-time retailers.
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
To ensure that what is sold to the consumer is safe and of quality food.
9. Online Food Businesses
E-commerce platforms include Swiggy, Zomato, and direct-to-the-end-consumer brands operating in the food business.
Online businesses must be compliant to engage with delivery companies and ensure that food is safe for consumers.
10. Food Packaging and Labeling Units
Business units that package or label food products also require FSSAI registration.
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
Proper labeling informs the consumer about what a packaged food product contains, what is in it, and its safety.
11. Food Testing Laboratories
Testing laboratories for food products' safety and quality also fall under FSSAI regulations.
Why They Require FSSAI Registration:
To guarantee the authenticity and accuracy of food safety tests conducted for businesses and consumers.
Registration Cutoffs:
- Basic Registration: Businesses having an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs.
- State License: Turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores of businesses operating in a state.
- Central License: Turnover of more than ₹20 crores or enterprises operating in multiple states.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
There are three types of licenses, which FSSAI categorizes into three types:
Basic Registration:
- For small-scale food operators.
- Simple application procedure.
State License:
- For medium-sized businesses.
- It covers all operations within one state.
Central License:
- For large-scale business or interstate operation.
- It covers exporters and importers.
Advantages of FSSAI Registration
FSSAI registration offers various benefits crucial for the development, trustworthiness, and hassle-free functioning of food businesses. Here is a detailed description of each advantage:
Legal Compliance
FSSAI registration ensures your food business complies with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, legal notices, or even business closure.
Increased Consumer Confidence
Displaying an FSSAI license increases customer confidence because it shows you care about food safety and hygiene standards.
Access to New Business Opportunities
With an FSSAI license, you can partner with big retailers and e-commerce platforms such as Swiggy or Zomato and export food products.
Improved Brand Credibility
Having an FSSAI registration number on your food products will enhance your brand image and make it easier to compete in the market.
Regulatory Ease
FSSAI registration also helps with inspections, audits, and compliance checks, which might hamper regular business activities.
Better Food Safety
The registered organizations adopt better food safety practices under the guidelines provided by FSSAI, minimizing the risk of contamination or any foodborne disease.
Expansion of International Markets
For exporters, FSSAI registration is mandatory for selling food products worldwide, providing credibility to international buyers.
Avoidance of Legal Penalties
An FSSAI license guards your business from hefty fines or legal action by regulatory authorities in case of non-compliance.
Consumer Awareness
Growing consumer awareness about food safety makes an FSSAI license a differentiator that attracts informed customers.
Business Growth and Revenue
Compliance enhances trust and customer satisfaction, contributing directly to increased sales and revenue growth for your food business.
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration
The eligibility for FSSAI registration or licensing depends on the size and nature of the food business. Here's a categorization:
Basic Registration
It is given that such a small-sized business turns over an amount not exceeding ₹12 lakhs in a year.
Examples:
- Home-based food manufacturers.
- Small retailers or petty traders.
- Cottage industries engaged in food production.
State License
Businesses with an annual turnover falling between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores
Examples:
- Medium-sized manufacturers.
- Restaurants operating within a state.
- Storage units, wholesalers, or transporters doing local work.
Central License
Large-scale businesses with a turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or operating in multiple states.
Examples:
- Exporters and importers of food products.
- E-commerce platforms.
- Units operating in government-regulated sectors (e.g., airports, seaports).
Detailed Guide: How to Apply for an FSSAI License
Applying for an FSSAI food license involves a few steps, each requiring meticulous attention. Here's a comprehensive step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Determine the Type of FSSAI License Required
- Basic Registration: Small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
- State License: To medium-sized firms with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Central License: Large companies with a turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or operating across multiple states.
Tip: Consult ComplifyXpert for guidance in determining the appropriate license type for your business.
Step 2: Collect Required Documents
The documents are different for every type of business. Commonly asked for are:
- ID proof and passport-sized photographs of the applicant.
- Business registration certificate or GST certificate.
- A rent/lease agreement or property tax receipt is required to prove business premises.
- List of food products that you deal in.
- Plan of the processing unit for manufacturers.
Step 3: Open an Account on FSSAI Portal
- Visit the official FSSAI website: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/.
- Click "Sign Up" to create an account using your email ID and mobile number.
- Choose your user role (Food Business Operator).
Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form
Log in to your FSSAI account.
Navigate to the "Apply for Registration/License" section.
Fill out the form with accurate details, including:
- Business name and address.
- Type of business.
- Turnover details.
- List of food categories you deal with.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents
- Scan and upload all the documents needed in the correct format and size.
- Ensure accuracy and completeness to prevent application rejection.
Step 6: Application Fee
It depends on the type of license and business scale. You can pay online via net banking, debit/credit cards, or UPI.
Step 7: Submission
Please review everything and click on "Submit." You will receive an acknowledgment with a unique application reference number.
Step 8: FSSAI Officials Scrutiny
FSSAI officials scrutinize the application. For State and central licenses, a food safety officer may visit the business premises for a physical inspection.
Step 9: Track Application Status
Track the status of your application on the FSSAI portal using the reference number given.
Step 10: Receive Your FSSAI Certificate
Once approved, the Food license registration certificate will be issued.
Download the certificate from the portal and hoist it at your business premises.
List of Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
The requirement for documents is different for each category of business. Here's a general checklist:
General Documents:
- Photographs of the applicant in passport size.
- Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc).
- Proof of address of the business.
- List of food categories
Additional Documents
- For manufacturers: Blueprint of the processing unit.
- For exporters/importers: Import/Export code
- For cloud kitchens: Agreements with the delivery platforms.
How to Check the Status of the Registration Process
You can check the status of your FSSAI registration online quickly via the FSSAI portal:
- Visit the FSSAI Website: Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/.
- Log In to Your Account: Use your credentials to log in to the portal.
- Navigate to Application Status: Click "Track Application Status" on the homepage.
- Enter Application Details: Provide your application reference number or application ID.
- View Status: The system will show your application's status: "Pending, Under Inspection," or "Approved."
What to do if Registration has been Cancelled
If you find that the FSSAI registration has been canceled, you would need to act within a short timeframe to address possible legal and operation issues:
What is the cause of the cancellation?
Examine the cancellation notice or contact FSSAI officials regarding the reason for the cancellation, be it non-compliance, missed renewal, or violation of some regulations.
Problem Resolution
Correct the fundamental issues, for example, document updation, food safety, or payment of pending fees.
Experts
Reach out to ComplifyXpert for consultation to rectify the problem and make a re-application if required.
How to Revoke FSSAI Registration
In case your registration is canceled, you can appeal for revocation by following the following procedure:
Apply for Revocation
- File a revocation application via the FSSAI portal or submit it through the food safety officer.
- Report any rectifications done to resolve the reasons for the cancellation.
Settlement of Outstanding Dues/ Penalties /Fines :
- Pay all arrears, including penalties and fines, if any, due on account of the cancellation.
Inspection by Food Safety Officer
- FSSAI may inspect at its discretion and check whether any regulation is met.
- If it finds everything in place, their registration or license will resume.
ComplifyXpert's Role: We help file revocation applications, fill compliance gaps, and make the reinstatement process smooth to quickly get your business back on track.
Why Choose ComplifyXpert for FSSAI Registration?
- Professional Guidance: Our experts demystify the complexities of online FSSAI registration.
- Full Cycle Support: We take care of everything from documentation to approval.
- Fast Track: Complete the registration process with our speedy services.
- Transparency: No hidden charges or obscure processes.
- Regular Updates: Stay informed about renewal deadlines and regulatory changes.
FAQ
What is the validity period of an FSSAI license?
The validity of an FSSAI license ranges from 1 to 5 years, as chosen during the application process. After this period, businesses must renew their license to continue operations without legal penalties.
Can I renew my FSSAI license after it expires?
Yes, the FSSAI license can be renewed after it expires. Nevertheless, a delay will incur penalties. It is always helpful to renew the license before it expires to avoid operational trouble.
What are the penal consequences if an FSSAI license is not procured?
Operating unlicensed under FSSAI can attract heavy fines, lawsuits, and suspension of operations. Penalties vary depending on the nature of the violation but can include imprisonment in severe cases of non-compliance.
How long does it take to get an FSSAI license?
The approval process generally takes 7–30 days. For Basic Registration, it is faster. For state or central licenses, it can take longer since inspections are done and depend on the complexity of the inspection.
Is FSSAI registration required for home-based food businesses?
YES, even the smallest home-based food business must have FSSAI Basic Registration to comply with food safety standards. This encourages consumer confidence and shields against lawsuits.
What is the FSSAI registration fee?
The fees for FSSAI registration are based on the type and period of the license. The Basic Registration charges are relatively low, whereas the State and Central Licenses involve more substantial payments, which are scale-based.
What is the role of a food safety officer in the FSSAI process?
Food safety officers inspect business premises to ensure compliance with the FSSAI regulations. They check the hygiene standards, verify documents, and issue reports of compliance, which are essential for acquiring or renewing licenses.
Do cloud kitchens require separate permits for multiple platforms?
Cloud kitchens need only one FSSAI license, encompassing all platforms, such as Swiggy and Zomato. This license covers food safety norms for every delivery service with whom you work.
What is the difference between FSSAI registration and a license?
FSSAI registration is for small businesses with a turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs, while licenses (State or central) are for medium—to large-scale businesses based on turnover and scope of operations.
Is FSSAI applicable to businesses dealing in non-food items?
No, the FSSAI strictly regulates food business operators. If your business does not involve food products, you don't need an FSSAI license, but you may require some other industry-specific registrations.
What happens if my FSSAI application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, you can correct and resubmit the errors. At ComplifyXpert, we help identify and fix application issues to increase the chances of approval.
Can ComplifyXpert help with FSSAI license renewal?
Yes, ComplifyXpert provides end-to-end assistance for FSSAI license renewal. We ensure timely reminders, accurate documentation, and quick submission to prevent penalties or disruptions in your operations.
Can I operate my food business with a temporary license?
No, you cannot operate legally with a temporary license. A valid FSSAI license is mandatory to begin food-related operations. Contact ComplifyXpert to expedite your registration process.
Can I transfer my FSSAI license to another place?
Yes, FSSAI licenses can be updated or changed to a different address. One needs to request a modification through the FSSAI portal. ComplifyXpert facilitates this process on your behalf.
How do I change my FSSAI license details?
You can update license details such as address, contact information, or business category through the FSSAI portal. Our experts at ComplifyXpert ensure a hassle-free update process for your convenience.
