The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates that food businesses engaged in manufacturing, processing, storing, distributing, and selling food products must comply with regulatory requirements, including the submission of an Annual Return. The FSSAI Annual Return is a crucial compliance requirement ensuring transparency in food business operations.
There are two types of FSSAI annual returns:
- Form D1 – Filed by food manufacturers, importers, processors, re-packers, and re-labellers.
- Form D2 – Filed by food businesses engaged in milk and milk product processing (to be filed half-yearly).
Who is Liable to File an Annual Return?
The following food business operators (FBOs) are required to file an FSSAI Annual Return:
- Food manufacturers
- Processors
- Importers
- Exporters
- Retailers & Wholesalers
- Re-packers & Re-labellers
- Cold storage and warehouses handling food items
However, petty food businesses, such as small-scale vendors and hawkers, are exempt from filing the annual return.
Details Required for Annual Return Filing
The following information must be provided while filing the FSSAI Annual Return (Form D1 or Form D2):
- Name and Address of the Food Business Operator
- FSSAI License Number
- Details of food products handled (including type, category, quantity, and description)
- Quantity of each food product manufactured, imported, or exported
- Details of procurement and sale (within India or outside India)
- Countries to which food products are exported (if applicable)
- Total Turnover of the Food Business
The annual return must be submitted before May 31st of each financial year for the previous year’s data.
Consequences of Non-Filing
Failing to file the FSSAI Annual Return can lead to penalties and legal repercussions, including:
- A fine of ₹100 per day for each day of delay beyond the due date.
- Risk of license suspension or cancellation for repeated non-compliance.
- Legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- Impact on business credibility and ability to operate legally.
How to File FSSAI Annual Return?
FSSAI annual returns can be filed online through the FSSAI portal by filling
Form D1 or D2 to the concerned FSSAI Licensing Authority.
It is advisable for food business operators to ensure timely compliance to avoid penalties and legal issues. Consulting an FSSAI compliance expert or professional can help in smooth and error-free filing of the annual return.
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