How to fssai registration

What is FSSAI Registration?

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 objective is to lay down science-based standards for articles of food and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption. FSSAI registration, often referred to as an FSSAI license, is a certificate of authority issued by the FSSAI to a food business operator (FBO) that permits them to carry out their food-related activities.

Who Needs FSSAI Registration?

Any individual, entity, or business involved in the handling, processing, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, distribution, or sale of food products in India must obtain an FSSAI registration or license. This includes a wide range of businesses, from small street food vendors and dairy shops to large manufacturing units, hotels, restaurants, catering services, e-commerce food operators, and importers/exporters.

Types of FSSAI Licenses/Registrations

The type of FSSAI license or registration required depends on the scale of operation, turnover, and the geographical area covered by the food business. The main categories are:

1. FSSAI Basic Registration (Type I): This is for smaller businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs. It is the most basic form of registration and is typically issued to petty food manufacturers, hawkers, street food vendors, and small retailers.
2. FSSAI State License (Type II): This license is required for businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores, or those operating in multiple districts within a single state. This includes medium-sized manufacturers, processors, storage units, transporters, retailers, restaurants, and cafes.
3. FSSAI Central License (Type III): This license is mandatory for large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores. It is also required for businesses involved in import/export of food products, operating in two or more states, large-scale manufacturers, food chain operators, and government-owned entities.

How to Obtain FSSAI Registration/License

The process for obtaining an FSSAI registration or license is primarily conducted online through the official FSSAI portal (foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in). Here's a general step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the FSSAI Portal: Go to the Food Safety Compliance of India (FOSCOS) portal, which is the integrated system for food licensing and registration.
2. Register as a New User: Create an account on the FOSCOS portal by providing basic details like name, email, and mobile number.
3. Select the Appropriate License/Registration Type: Based on your business type, turnover, and operational area, choose the correct category (Basic Registration, State License, or Central License).
4. Fill the Application Form: Complete the relevant application form (Form A for Basic Registration, Form B for State/Central License) with accurate details about your business, including ownership, details of food products, manufacturing process, storage, etc.
5. Upload Required Documents: Depending on the license type, you will need to upload supporting documents. These typically include:
   • Proof of identity and address (e.g., Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License) for proprietors, partners, directors.
   • Proof of address of the business premises (e.g., Rent agreement, Property tax receipt, Electricity bill).
   • Partnership deed or Certificate of Incorporation (if applicable).
   • NOC from the local authority (if required).
   • Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit.
   • List of food products and ingredients.
   • Details of machinery and equipment.
   • Recall plan (for manufacturers).
   • Source of raw material.
   • Health certificate for handlers (if applicable).
6. Pay the Application Fee: A nominal fee is associated with the application, which varies based on the license type. Payment can be made online.
7. Submission and Inspection: Once submitted, your application will be processed. For State and Central licenses, an inspection of the food business premises by an FSSAI official may be conducted to verify compliance with food safety standards.
8. Approval and Issuance: Upon successful verification and approval, the FSSAI license or registration certificate will be issued to the applicant. This certificate contains your unique FSSAI license number, which must be prominently displayed at your business premises.

Validity and Renewal

FSSAI licenses and registrations are typically valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant's choice during the application process. It is crucial to renew the license before its expiry date to continue operating legally. The renewal process is similar to the application process, requiring the submission of updated documents and payment of renewal fees.

Importance of FSSAI Compliance

Adhering to FSSAI regulations is not just a legal requirement but also crucial for building consumer trust and ensuring the safety of food products. Compliance helps in preventing foodborne illnesses, maintaining product quality, and facilitating fair trade practices. FSSAI conducts regular inspections and audits to ensure that food businesses meet the prescribed standards.