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Food safety is very important for public health. In India, the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) makes sure that all food businesses follow proper safety rules. If you are planning to start a food-related business, you must get FSSAI registration or license.

This article explains the FSSAI registration and licensing process, its types, required documents, eligibility, and benefits.

What is FSSAI?

FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It works under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It was set up under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The main job of FSSAI is to:

• Make food safety rules.
• Check food quality.
• Issue FSSAI registration and licenses.
• Monitor food businesses in India.

What is FSSAI Registration and License?

FSSAI registration or license is a legal requirement for anyone who wants to run a food business in India. It gives the business a 14-digit registration or license number. This number must be printed on food packages.

There are two main types of approval:

1. FSSAI Registration – For small businesses with limited turnover.
2. FSSAI License – For medium and large businesses.

Types of FSSAI Licenses

There are three types of FSSAI approvals based on the size and type of the business:

1. Basic Registration

• For very small food businesses.
• Annual turnover Up to Rs. 12 lakhs.
• Examples: Small shops, home-based food sellers, street vendors.

2. State License

• For medium-sized businesses.
• Annual turnover: More than Rs. 12 lakhs and up to Rs. 20 crores.
• Issued by the State Government.
• Examples: Medium-sized restaurants, manufacturers, and food retailers.

3. Central License

• For large-scale businesses.
• Annual turnover has More than Rs. 20 crores.
• Issued by the Central Government.
• Required for import/export and businesses operating in more than one state.

Who Needs FSSAI Registration or License?

FSSAI registration is required for all types of food-related businesses, such as:

• Food manufacturers
• Food packaging units
• Food storage units
• Food traders
• Online food sellers
• Food transporters
• Restaurants and hotels
• Canteens and catering services

Even home-based food sellers and cloud kitchens must have FSSAI approval.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration and License

Here are the documents needed for different types of FSSAI approvals:

For Basic Registration:

• Passport-size photo
• ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
• Business details
• Address proof of business

For State License:

• All documents of Basic Registration
• Proof of turnover
• Food safety management plan
• Details of food products
• NOC from local authority (if needed)
• Water test report

For Central License:

• All documents of State License
• Import/export code (for exporters/importers)
• Ministry of Commerce certificate (if applicable)
• Details of machinery (for manufacturers)
• Proof of business in multiple states

FSSAI Registration and Licensing Process

Here is a step-by-step guide to apply for FSSAI Registration and Licensing approval:

Step 1: Visit FSSAI Website

Go to the official website at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in

Step 2: Sign Up

Create a new account by entering your email, phone number, and password.

Step 3: Select Type of Registration/License

Choose the type of registration or license based on your business type and turnover.

Step 4: Fill the Online Application (Form A or Form B)

• Form A: For Basic Registration.
• Form B: For State and Central Licenses.

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload the required documents in the correct format.

Step 6: Pay the Fees

Pay the registration/license fees online.

Step 7: Application Review

The authorities will review your application and may visit your business location.

Step 8: Get Your License

If everything is fine, your FSSAI registration or license will be issued within 7 to 60 days.

Validity and Renewal

• FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years.
• You must renew the license before it expires. It is better to apply for renewal at least 30 days before the expiry date.
• If you fail to renew on time, a late fee of Rs. 100 per day is charged.

Benefits of FSSAI Registration

Having an FSSAI registration or license offers many advantages:

1. Legal Protection – You can run your business without legal problems.
2. Consumer Trust – People trust FSSAI-licensed businesses more.
3. Better Branding – You can use the FSSAI logo on food packages.
4. Business Expansion – Easy to expand your business in other states.
5. Funding and Loans – Helpful in getting bank loans or government grants.
6. Import/Export – Compulsory for international food trade.

Penalties for Not Having FSSAI License

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Running a food business without FSSAI registration or license is a punishable offense. Some penalties include:

• Fine of up to Rs. 5 lakhs.
• Business closure.
• Jail in serious cases of food safety violation.

So, it's always better to get registered on time.

Conclusion

FSSAI registration or license is mandatory for anyone involved in the food business. It ensures that the food sold is safe and healthy. Whether you run a small food stall or a big food company, getting FSSAI approval is a smart and responsible step. It not only helps grow your business but also increases public trust in your products.