Introduction
Importance of FSSAI Registration
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. FSSAI is responsible for protecting and promoting public health through the regulation and supervision of food safety. FSSAI registration ensures that the food produced, manufactured, or sold in the market adheres to the standards set by the authority, thereby safeguarding public health.
Overview of FSSAI
FSSAI was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The main aim of FSSAI is to lay down science-based standards for food articles and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.
2. Types of FSSAI Registration
FSSAI registration and licensing are categorized based on the business size and turnover.
Basic Registration
- For small food business operators (FBOs) with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
- Suitable for small-scale food manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, and distributors.
State License
- For medium-sized FBOs with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Required for medium-scale manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, and distributors operating within a state.
Central License
- For large FBOs with an annual turnover above ₹20 crores.
- Mandatory for food businesses operating in multiple states, importers, and exporters.
3. Eligibility Criteria
Who Needs FSSAI Registration?
Every FBO involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products must obtain FSSAI registration or license.
Criteria for Basic Registration
- Petty food manufacturers or small-scale industries.
- Retailers, itinerant vendors, temporary stallholders, small-scale food businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
Criteria for State License
- Mid-sized manufacturers, storage, transporters, retailers, distributors.
- Businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
Criteria for Central License
- Large food manufacturers, processors, storage units.
- FBOs with a turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.
- Businesses operating in multiple states, importers, and exporters.
4. Documents Required
Common Documents
- Form B duly completed and signed.
- Photo ID and address proof issued by the government authority.
- Proof of possession of premises (e.g., rent agreement, NOC).
- List of food products to be handled.
Additional Documents for State and Central Licenses
- Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit.
- List of equipment and machinery.
- Food safety management plan.
- Source of raw materials for milk, meat, etc.
- Water test report from a recognized/public health laboratory.
- Import Export Code for Central License.
- Ministry of Commerce Certificate for 100% export-oriented units.
Step-by-Step Guide for Online FSSAI Registration
Step 1: Visit the FSSAI Website
- Go to the official FSSAI website (https://www.fssai.gov.in)
Step 2: Create an Account
- Click on the ‘Sign Up’ option and fill in the necessary details to create an account.
- An activation link will be sent to your email. Click on the link to activate your account.
Step 3: Login and Fill the Application Form
- Login with your credentials.
- Select the ‘Apply for License/Registration’ option.
- Choose the appropriate type of registration (Basic/State/Central).
- Fill in the required details accurately in Form A (for registration) or Form B (for licensing).
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Upload the scanned copies of all the necessary documents.
- Ensure that the documents are clear and legible.
Step 5: Fee Payment
- The fee varies based on the type of registration/license.
- Payment can be made online through various modes such as credit/debit card, net banking, etc.
Fees for FSSAI Registration and Licensing (1 Year)
New Application:
- Central License: ₹7500
- State License: ₹2000 to ₹5000
- FSSAI Registration: ₹100
- Konkan/Indian Railway License: ₹2000
Renewal Application:
- Central License: ₹7500
- State License: ₹2000 to ₹5000
- FSSAI Registration: ₹100
- Konkan/Indian Railway License: ₹2000
Modification of License/Certificate:
- Central License: ₹7500
- State License: ₹2000 to ₹5000
- FSSAI Registration: ₹100
- Konkan/Indian Railway License: ₹2000
Duplicate License/Certificate:
- Central License: 10% of the applicable license fee
- State License: 10% of the applicable license fee
- FSSAI Registration: 10% of the applicable certificate fee
- Konkan/Indian Railway License: 10% of the applicable certificate fee
Step 6: Submit the Application
- Review all the details filled in the application form.
- Once verified, submit the application.
6. Post-Submission Process
Application Processing
- The application is scrutinized by the FSSAI officials.
- You will receive an acknowledgment with a unique application reference number.
Inspection Process
- In case of State and Central licenses, an inspection of the premises might be conducted.
- The inspection report is submitted to FSSAI.
Issuance of FSSAI Certificate
- Upon successful verification and inspection (if applicable), the FSSAI registration/license certificate is issued.
- The certificate can be downloaded from the FSSAI website using the login credentials.
7. Renewal of FSSAI Registration
When to Apply for Renewal
- FSSAI registration/license needs to be renewed before its expiry.
- It is advisable to apply for renewal at least 30 days prior to the expiry date.
Renewal Process
- Login to your FSSAI account.
- Select the ‘Renew License/Registration’ option.
- Fill in the necessary details and upload any updated documents if required.
- Pay the renewal fee and submit the application.
Documents Required for Renewal
- Form B duly completed and signed.
- Latest audited balance sheet (for State/Central licenses).
- Any other documents as specified by FSSAI.
8. Common Issues and Solutions
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete application forms.
- Incorrect details or discrepancies in the documents.
- Delayed submission of renewal applications.
How to Track Your Application
- Use the application reference number to track the status of your application on the FSSAI website.
Dealing with Rejections
- In case of rejection, rectify the issues highlighted by the officials and reapply.
9. Benefits of FSSAI Registration
Legal Benefits
- Compliance with the law avoids penalties and legal actions.
- Facilitates the legal framework for food safety in your business.
Consumer Trust
- FSSAI registration number on food products builds trust among consumers.
- Assurance of food safety and hygiene.
Business Expansion
- Registered FBOs can easily expand their business to new locations.
- Eligible for loans and funding.
10. Conclusion
FSSAI registration is a crucial step for all food business operators in India. It ensures that the food produced, stored, distributed, and sold by businesses adheres to the safety standards set by the authority, thereby ensuring the health and safety of consumers. The online registration process is designed to be straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure that all necessary information and documents are accurately provided. By following the step-by-step guide and being aware of the common issues and solutions, FBOs can successfully obtain and maintain their FSSAI registration, ensuring compliance and building consumer trust.
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