FSSAI Registration Guide: Online Process and Documents

FSSAI Registration is mandatory for all food businesses operating in India. It helps in ensuring the safety and hygiene of food products consumed by the public. The FSSAI is a government body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It operates for regulating and overseeing food safety standards in India. Food business operators (FBOs) need FSSAI registration to operate in India. Read the blog to learn about the FSSAI registration process. Its importance, and why it’s essential for food businesses.

 

What is FSSAI Registration?

It is for businesses manufacturing, storing or selling food products in India. FSSAI Registration helps in ensuring that the food sold is safe for consumption. It ensures the health and hygiene standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The FSSAI is there to break down science-based standards for food products. They oversee their compliance and promote awareness about food safety.

A food business must register with the FSSAI to operate in India.  They will have to apply for FSSAI Registration depending on the nature of the food business. The specific requirement depends on the type and turnover of the business.

Types of FSSAI Registration

1.   FSSAI Basic Registration

This is the most basic type of registration that a food business can apply under the FSSAI. This is appropriate for small-scale food businesses. Food vendors, retailers, and home-based food producers apply for it. Businesses with an annual turnover of less than Rs.12 lakhs fall under this category.

2.   FSSAI State License:

If you have a medium size food business, go for FSSAI State License. This license is for businesses with an annual turnover between Rs12 lakhs and Rs.20, crores. Businesses manufacturing or processing food on a larger scale need this one. These may include restaurants, food packaging units, or wholesalers.

3.   FSSAI Central License:

This license is for large-scale food businesses that have a turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores per annum. Additionally, food businesses operating across states need an FSSAI Central License. Food manufacturers or importers of food products into India apply for this license.

Importance of FSSAI Registration

Here in the section below, we will have a discussion on the importance of FSSAI registration. Below are some reasons why it is important for your food business:

1.   Legal Requirement

All food businesses, irrespective of their scale, need to register with FSSAI. Operating without FSSAI registration is not legal and can lead to penalties.

2.   Consumer Trust

FSSAI registration ensures that the food consumers are consuming is safe, hygienic. It complies with quality standards. This helps in building trust. Trust is important for the success of a food business.

3.   Food Safety Standards

FSSAI sets food safety standards for safety and hygiene. Businesses must adhere to these standards. FSSAI Registration ensures that the food business is adhering to safety practices.

4.   Brand Reputation

FSSAI registration is a mark of authenticity. It develops your brand’s reputation as a responsible food business. It shows that you care about the safety of consumers.

5.   Legal Protection

FSSAI registration can protect your business in the event of any legal dispute. It is a proof that you have met all regulatory requirements. This license can defend your operations if necessary.

Documents Required for Food License Registration

Here check the documents required for food license registration:

a)  Common Documents for All FSSAI licenses or Registrations

·         Applicant’s Identity and Address Proof

Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License.

·         Passport-sized photo of the applicant.

·         Proof of Business Address,

Rental Agreement, Lease Agreement, Utility Bill, or Property Ownership Documents.

·         Business Constitution/Type Proof

Certificate of Incorporation (for companies), Partnership Deed, or Proprietorship Registration Certificate.

·         Detailed list of all products you plan to manufacture, sell, or distribute.

·         Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan

·         A self-declaration form as per FSSAI requirements.

·         No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local authority or health department, if applicable.

b)  Basic Registration

·         Form A:

·         Duly filled and signed application form

·         A self-declaration stating the nature of the business.

·         Food Handler Certificate (If required)

c)  State & Central License Documents

·         Form B: Duly filled and signed application form

·         Layout Plan: Blueprint of the processing unit showing dimensions and area allocation

·         Directors/Partners List with contact details and photo IDs

·         Equipment and Machinery Details, including numbers and installed capacity

·         Water Analysis Report

·         Authority Letter from the manufacturer nominating a responsible person

·         No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Local Authority

·         Health No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the health department (if applicable)

·         List of Food Categories

·         Recall Plan if applicable (for Central License)

·         IEC & Ministry Certificates

Import Export Code (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce/ Tourism certificates (if applicable)

·         Form IX (Nomination of Person)

·         Supporting Documents, including Proof of turnover and transportation

The FSSAI Registration Process

You have understood the significance of FSSAI registration. Now we will discuss the step-by-step process involved in obtaining the FSSAI License.  The registration can vary based on the type of food business you have. It depends on whether you need a Basic Registration, State License, or Central License.

The step-by-step process to apply for FSSAI license

Below, we have given the step-by-step food license registration process:

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

First you need to visit the official FoSCoS portal to apply for the FSSAI registration. This is the first step for staring your Registration process.

 

Step 2: Create a User Account

You will have to create a new user account by clicking on the “Sign Up” option. Then enter your full name, mobile number, and email address. After that, you will get an OTP (one-time password) from the system to check your details. The account will become active and ready for use after verification.

 

Step 3: Select the Correct License Type

Next log in to your account and choose the “Apply for New License/Registration” option. Select the license type you want. You must select the correct license type as per your requirements.  The option includes Basic registration, State license, or a central license. In case if you choose the wrong food license type, it will cause unnecessary delays.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Complete and submit the application form with the required information. You can use Form A for Basic Registration and Form B for a State or Central License. The information must include the business name, address, contact details. It must mention the type of food business, number of employees, production capacity.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Now upload all required scanned documents. These includes identity proof, address proof, business registration certificate. Make sure to keep each file under 2 MB.

Step 6: Pay the License Fees

Now pay the applicable food license registration fees online.  After the payment you will be receive an Application Reference Number (ARN). With this reference number can check and track the status of your application.  

Step 7: Review and Inspection

The authorities will review the application submitted and documents. Officials also visit the premises for inspecting hygiene and safety standards. You will have to resolve your issues on time for smooth operations.

Step 8: License Approval and Download

Now you need to log in to the FoSCoS portal and download the food license registration. The FSSAI registration certificate will contain a unique 14-digit registration number. You can also save it in a PDF format. This certificate is the proof that your business is meeting all food safety rules.

FSSAI Registration Fees

Here check out the FSSAI Registration Fees:

License Type	Annual Fee (INR)	Who Should Apply
Basic Registration	Rs. 100	Small food businesses with a turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakh
State License	Rs. 2,000 – Rs. 5,000	Medium-sized businesses with turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore
Central License	Rs. 7,500	Large businesses with a turnover above Rs. 20 crore or operating in multiple states

Large businesses with a turnover above Rs. 20 crore or operating in multiple states

FSSAI Labelling Requirements

Beside FSSAI registration food businesses need to adhere to the FSSAI labeling requirements. It provides consumer’s access to relevant information about the food products. Print the FSSAI logo on all food product packaging. You can also print the 14-digit FSSAI registration number on all product packaging.

The labeling must need to include:

·                 Name of the food product

·                 Ingredients used in the product

·                 Manufacturer details

·                 Best before or expiry date

·                 Nutritional information

·                 Net weight

Failure to meet these labeling standards will result in penalties.

 Conclusion

FSSAI registration is a vital step toward ensuring food safety. It helps in gaining the trust of consumers in India. Registering with FSSAI helps your food business stay compliant with food safety laws. Whether you are running a small food cart or operating a large food processing unit. It helps in maintaining high standards of hygiene.

You can ensure that your food business is operating legally. By meeting all necessary requirements, you can stay in the safe zone. Therefore, if you haven’t already, make sure to get your FSSAI registration done today. If you have any query, get in touch with Online Legal India.

FAQ

 Q1. Can a home-based food business apply for FSSAI registration?

Yes, definitely. A home-based food business can apply for FSSAI registration for selling food products. Home-based food businesses usually qualify for basic FSSAI registration.

Q2. Is it possible to renew FSSAI registration online?

Yes, you can renew FSSAI registration online. The validity of FSSAI License is for 1 to 5 years. It depends on the choice, and you can renew it before expiry on the FoSCoS portal.

Q3. What are the benefits of completing FSSAI registration online?

Online food license will save your time, reduces paperwork, and ensures compliance. It also provides a digital certificate. You can display it at your business premises or on product packaging. It will enhance the credibility of your food business.

Q4. How do I choose between a basic, state, and central FSSAI license?

·         Basic Registration: It is for mall Food businesses with a turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakhs/year.

·         State License: This license is for medium-sized businesses with turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores.

·         Central License: It is for large businesses or manufacturers with a turnover of over Rs. 20 crore or which are operating in multiple states.

Selecting the correct type ensures smooth approval and compliance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Online Legal India is a digital platform. If you require legal assistance, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified lawyer or law firm.