FSSAI Registration Process in India – Complete Guide

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and quality of food products consumed by millions of people across the country. FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food businesses in India, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and exporters. This article provides a detailed overview of the FSSAI registration process, including its significance, eligibility criteria, documents required, and step-by-step procedure.

What is FSSAI?

FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. FSSAI is responsible for regulating and supervising the safety and standards of food products to ensure the safety of consumers.

It sets food safety standards, regulates food manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, and distribution, and issues licenses and registrations to food businesses across India. FSSAI plays a crucial role in promoting and protecting public health by ensuring the quality and safety of food products consumed by the masses.

Importance of FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration is essential for food businesses as it ensures compliance with food safety standards and regulations mandated by the government. It helps in maintaining the quality and safety of food products, thereby protecting the health of consumers. Additionally, FSSAI registration enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of food businesses in the market, leading to increased consumer confidence and brand reputation.

Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration

Basic Registration: Food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs are eligible for basic FSSAI registration. This includes small-scale food businesses such as petty food manufacturers, small eateries, and home-based food businesses.

State FSSAI License: Food businesses with an annual turnover of more than ₹12 lakhs and up to ₹20 crores are required to obtain a state FSSAI license. This applies to medium-sized food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers operating within a single state.

Central FSSAI License: Food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores are required to obtain a central FSSAI license. This includes large-scale manufacturers, importers, exporters, and distributors operating across multiple states or engaged in international trade.

Read: How to Register GST Online in India

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

• Identity proof of the proprietor/partners/directors (e.g., Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID, Passport)
• Address proof of the business premises (e.g., utility bills, rental agreement, property tax receipt)
• Proof of incorporation (for companies and LLPs)
• Food safety management system plan (for manufacturers and processors)
• List of food products to be manufactured/traded
• Layout plan of the premises (for manufacturing units)
• NOC from the municipal corporation or local authority (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Procedure for FSSAI Registration

• Determine the type of FSSAI registration required based on the eligibility criteria and nature of the food business.
• Prepare the necessary documents as per the checklist provided by the FSSAI.
• Fill out the online FSSAI application form on the official FSSAI website or through the Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal.
• Upload the scanned copies of the required documents along with the application form.
• Pay the requisite FSSAI registration fee online through the designated payment gateway.
• Apply and wait for the FSSAI authorities to verify the documents and process the registration.
• Once approved, the FSSAI registration certificate will be issued electronically and sent to the registered email address.

Conclusion: Obtaining FSSAI registration is a crucial step for food businesses to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and demonstrate their commitment to consumer health and safety. By following the prescribed eligibility criteria, submitting the necessary documents, and completing the registration process online, food businesses can obtain FSSAI registration smoothly and continue their operations legally in India.

Read: How to Register a Company/ Startup in India

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs to obtain FSSAI registration?

Any individual or entity involved in the manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, or sale of food products needs to obtain FSSAI registration or license, depending on the scale and nature of their business.

What are the different types of FSSAI registrations?

FSSAI offers three types of registrations based on the size and nature of the food business: Basic Registration, State License, and Central License. The type of registration required depends on the annual turnover and scale of operations of the food business.

What is the validity period of FSSAI registration?

The validity period of FSSAI registration varies depending on the type of registration obtained. Basic Registration is valid for one to five years, State License is valid for one to five years, and Central License is valid for one to five years, as per the discretion of the FSSAI authority.

What is the penalty for operating without FSSAI registration?

Operating a food business without a valid FSSAI registration or license is a punishable offence under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The penalty for non-compliance includes fines, imprisonment, and the possibility of closure of the business.

Can FSSAI registration be transferred or cancelled?

FSSAI registration is non-transferable. However, it can be cancelled or surrendered by the food business operator by submitting a written request to the FSSAI authority along with the necessary documents.

Is it necessary to display the FSSAI license number on food products?

Yes, food businesses must display the FSSAI license number on food product labels. This helps consumers verify the authenticity and compliance of the food products they purchase.

Can FSSAI registration be upgraded?

Yes, food businesses can upgrade their FSSAI registration from Basic Registration to State License or from State License to Central License based on their business growth and turnover. The upgrade process involves submitting a fresh application along with the required documents and fees.