The FSSAI license is a prerequisite for individuals operating in the food industry, whether they’re launching a food stall, restaurant, bakery, hotel, or cloud kitchen in India. This license is mandatory for all Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in manufacturing, preparing, selling, transporting, distributing, or storing food items. It ensures compliance with food safety standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The FSSAI, which stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, is the governing body responsible for regulating the food industry across the nation. Established under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Government of India, FSSAI operates independently to oversee and enforce food safety regulations. FBO owners must submit an application on the FSSAI website to obtain the license, ensuring the quality of the food they offer.
Enacted in 2006, the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSS Act) serves as the comprehensive legislation governing food safety and regulation in India. It provides the legal framework for the establishment of FSSAI, aiming to uphold food quality standards, prevent food adulteration, and curb the sale of substandard food products. The FSSAI sets guidelines for operating the food industry in India and is responsible for registering and licensing FBOs nationwide.
At Corporate Raasta Consulting, we specialize in assisting businesses in obtaining an FSSAI license in India, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitating the smooth operation of food-related ventures.
Types of FSSAI License
Businesses engaged in food activities are required to apply for food license of different types based on turnover, scale of business and the type of activity. The Types of FSSAI Food license are as follows:
FSSAI Basic Registration
The FSSAI registration is for food business operators (FBOs) which have small-sized business or start-ups. They have their annual turnover less than Rs.12 Lakh. Basic registration can be upgraded depends on your business sales graph productivity.
FSSAI State license
The State FSSAI License is for the FBOs which have medium- size business. They have their annual turnover more than Rs. 12 Lakhs or up to Rs.20 crores. The state license can be further upgraded to central license all depends on your business sale graph productivity.
FSSAI Central license
The Central FSSAI License is applicable for FBOs which have large business annual turnover i.e. above Rs.20 crores. It is also required in cases where you need to supply at the government offices or import / export food products.
Eligibility for FSSAI License
Except for small firms, all other Food Business Operators (FBOs) are required to obtain an FSSAI license. Depending on the size of the company, whether medium or large-scale, FSSAI licenses fall into one of two categories: State and Central licenses.
FSSAI State License: FBOs operating medium-sized manufacturing units, transportation businesses, marketers, and merchants must obtain a State FSSAI license issued by the respective State Government. Eligibility for the FSSAI State License applies to businesses with an annual revenue ranging from Rs. 12 lakh to Rs. 20 crore (or Rs. 30 crore for transportation companies and wholesalers). This category also includes milling units processing grains, cereals, and pulses with unlimited output capacity, along with medium-scale businesses meeting specified food capacity limits.
FSSAI Central License: Large-scale manufacturers, importers, and exporters engaged in significant food operations must register with the Central Government for the Central FSSAI License. Eligibility for the Central FSSAI License applies to businesses with a minimum annual revenue of Rs. 20 crore (or Rs. 30 crore for wholesalers and transportation businesses).
FBOs requiring a Central FSSAI License include those operating across multiple states, involved in import and export, dealing in proprietary and unspecified food products, nutritional supplements, and healthcare items, engaging in food processing using radiation, conducting food-related activities at Central Government agency locations, operating food businesses at railway station premises, including hawkers, restaurants, canteens, caterers, and small stores, online food retailers, and large-scale companies meeting specified food capacity restrictions.
Benefits of Obtaining an FSSAI License in India
Increased Consumer Awareness: Displaying the FSSAI license promotes consumer confidence by assuring them of food safety standards compliance.
Use of FSSAI Logo: Authorized use of the FSSAI logo helps build goodwill and trust among customers.
Establishment of Science-Based Principles: FSSAI sets guidelines based on scientific research, ensuring food safety and quality.
Control over Food Production and Distribution: FSSAI regulations govern the production, distribution, import, and storage of food, ensuring adherence to safety standards at every stage.
Promotion of Food Safety: FSSAI’s regulatory framework promotes food safety through stringent standards and enforcement measures.
Responsibility for Research and Development: FSSAI oversees research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing food safety and quality.
Alignment with International Standards: FSSAI regulations are aligned with international organizations’ standards, facilitating global trade and acceptance.
Evidence-Based Policy Formation: FSSAI conducts evidence-based research to inform policy decisions and enhance food safety measures.
Opportunities for Business Growth: Compliance with FSSAI regulations opens up avenues for business expansion and market access, enhancing competitiveness and reputation.
Documents Required for FSSAI License or Registration
Every food business owner can apply online along with the following documents required to obtain the FSSAI license or registration and to acquire the FSSAI license number:
Documents Needed for License
1. Certificate confirming adoption of Food Safety Management System.
2. Medical fitness certificates for all employees.
3. Detailed information about technical staff managing the process.
Documents Required for State/Central FSSAI License:
1. Form – B.
2. Proof of address for the production site.
3. Production site layout.
4. Proof of rent for the premises.
5. Business License.
6. Factory license (if applicable).
7. Contact information for partners, directors, members, and other key personnel.
8. Proof of identity and address for signatories or management.
9. Water testing report from a licensed laboratory.
10. Form IX (if the company owner designates you).
11. NOC from the producer.
12. List of menu items.
13. Food safety management plan.
Difference between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License:
| Criteria | FSSAI Registration | FSSAI License |
| Applicability | Small scale food businesses | Medium and large-scale food businesses |
| Turnover | FSSAI registration is required for businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs | Businesses with annual turnover of more than ₹12 lakhs |
| Scope | Limited to a specific local area | Allows activities across the country |
| Stringency | Less stringent | More comprehensive and mandatory |
| Validity | Valid for five years | The license is valid for five years |
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Every individual or entity holding an FSSAI license or food safety registration is obligated to comply with the regulations outlined in the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, which governs all food businesses in India. Food safety officers conduct inspections of food business operators’ facilities and assess their level of compliance using a checklist. The assessment may result in the following classifications based on the degree of compliance:
– Compliance (C)
– Non-compliance (NC)
– Partial compliance (PC)
– Not applicable/Not observed (NA)
Subsequently, if deemed necessary, the food safety officer may issue an improvement notice in accordance with Section 32 of the FSS Act of 2006. Upon providing the licensee with an opportunity to provide an explanation, the officer has the authority to revoke the license if the business owner fails to address the issues identified in the improvement notice. Any operator of a food business has the right to lodge a complaint regarding an improvement notice with the State Commissioner of Food Safety.
Furthermore, individuals can contest the decision by filing an appeal with the Food Safety Appellate Tribunal or the High Court.
Why Choose Corporate Raasta Consulting for FSSAI License in India?
Corporate Raasta Consulting is a trusted Indian professional service provider offering FSSAI license or registration services for various reasons:
Expertise and Experience: Our team comprises over 400 FSSAI experts with over 10 years of experience in navigating FSSAI laws and procedures, ensuring smooth registration and compliance.
End-to-End Support: We provide comprehensive support throughout the FSSAI registration process, handling all aspects from document preparation to application submission and obtaining the registration certificate.
Time Saving: Corporate Raasta Consulting prioritizes prompt service delivery, minimizing registration time while ensuring document accuracy and completeness, thereby saving clients valuable time.
Legal and Compliance Knowledge: We ensure compliance with food safety rules and regulations, offering insights and guidance to meet regulatory standards.
Customized Solutions: Our services are tailored to meet the specific requirements of each client, offering personalized solutions throughout the FSSAI license acquisition process.
Online Procedure Facilitation: Corporate Raasta Consulting streamlines the FSSAI registration process by facilitating online document submission and enabling clients to monitor application status conveniently.
Additional Services: In addition to FSSAI registration, we offer various related services such as GST registration and trademark registration, providing comprehensive support to businesses.
With Corporate Raasta Consulting, clients can expect efficient, reliable, and hassle-free FSSAI license acquisition services tailored to their needs.