The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It was formed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, of 2006, with the primary objective of regulating and supervising food safety in the country. One of the key requirements under this act is the FSSAI registration or licensing for all food business operators (FBOs). FSSAI registration is not just a regulatory necessity but a mark of trust, quality, and adherence to food safety norms. This article delves deep into the nuances of FSSAI registration its importance, the types of registration, the process involved, and its benefits.
Understanding FSSAI Registration
FSSAI registration is a mandatory compliance for food business operators in India to ensure the food products they produce, store, distribute, or sell adhere to the prescribed food safety standards. This registration applies to all types of food business operators, whether they are involved in the manufacturing, processing, packaging, or distribution of food products. The FSSAI license number is a 14-digit number, which provides information about the assembling state and the producer’s permit. This registration process is designed to create more accountability on the FBO to maintain the quality of food products.
Why is FSSAI Registration Important?
Consumer Safety and Confidence: FSSAI registration helps ensure that food products are safe for consumption. It helps in building consumer confidence by assuring them that the food product they are purchasing adheres to the safety standards set by the authorities.
Legal Requirement: Operating a food business without obtaining the necessary FSSAI registration is illegal and can lead to penalties and legal actions. Therefore, adhering to FSSAI norms is crucial for any food business to operate legally in India.
Improves Credibility and Business Growth: FSSAI registration is a mark of trust and quality assurance. It helps food businesses in gaining the trust of customers and expanding their market reach. Businesses that comply with FSSAI regulations are more likely to attract consumers who are conscious about food safety.
Ensures Quality Control: The registration process involves regular inspections and quality checks, ensuring that food businesses maintain the standard of food safety. This not only protects consumers but also helps businesses maintain high standards of quality.
Facilitates Business Expansion: An FSSAI license is often required for businesses to enter into partnerships or collaborations with other companies. It is also a prerequisite for exporting food products to other countries, thus aiding in business expansion.
Types of FSSAI Registration
FSSAI registration is categorized into three types, depending on the size and nature of the business:
Basic FSSAI Registration: This is meant for small food business operators, including petty food manufacturers, small-scale food businesses, hawkers, itinerant vendors, temporary stallholders, or small-scale businesses having an annual turnover of up to INR 12 lakhs. It is a simple registration process where the FBOs get an FSSAI Registration Certificate.
State FSSAI License: Medium-sized food manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, distributors, etc., with an annual turnover between INR 12 lakhs and INR 20 crores, must obtain a State FSSAI License. This license is issued by the state government.
Central FSSAI License: Large food businesses having an annual turnover above INR 20 crores, businesses engaged in food import/export, food manufacturing units, food processing units, or food storage units that deal in a large-scale operation, need to obtain a Central FSSAI License. This license is issued by the central government.
FSSAI Registration Process
The process of obtaining FSSAI registration or license involves a series of steps, which are as follows:
Determine the Type of Registration Required: The first step is to determine the type of FSSAI registration or license required for the food business. This depends on the scale and nature of the business, as discussed earlier.
Filling the Application: The FBO needs to fill out the application form (Form A for Basic Registration, Form B for State and Central Licenses) with all the necessary details such as the name of the food business, address, contact details, types of food products handled, and other relevant information.
Document Submission: Along with the application form, FBOs need to submit a set of documents, which may include identity proof, address proof, passport-sized photographs, a food safety management plan, proof of possession of the premises, a list of food products, and other documents as required.
Fee Payment: The FSSAI registration process involves the payment of a fee, which varies depending on the type of license or registration required.
Inspection by Authorities: Once the application and documents are submitted, the FSSAI authorities may inspect the premises to ensure that the food safety standards are being adhered to.
Approval and Issuance of License: Upon successful verification of the application and inspection, the FSSAI registration certificate or license is issued, which needs to be displayed prominently at the food business premises.
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
The documents required for FSSAI registration vary depending on the type of registration or license. Some of the common documents include:
Basic FSSAI Registration:
Passport-sized photograph of the applicant.
Proof of identity (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.).
Proof of address.
State and Central FSSAI License:
Form B duly completed and signed.
Passport-sized photographs of the authorized signatory.
Proof of identity and address of the authorized signatory.
List of food categories to be manufactured.
Layout plan of the processing unit.
Name and list of equipment and machinery used.
List of directors/partners with their contact details.
Food safety management system plan.
Source of raw material for milk, meat, etc.
Validity and Renewal of FSSAI License
FSSAI licenses are valid for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on the number of years for which the fee is paid. FBOS needs to apply for the renewal of the license at least 30 days before its expiry. Failure to renew the license on time can attract penalties and may lead to the suspension of the license.
Penalties for Non-compliance
Non-compliance with FSSAI regulations can lead to severe penalties, including the cancellation of the license, heavy fines, or imprisonment. The FSSAI conducts regular inspections and audits to ensure that food businesses comply with food safety standards. In cases where FBOs fail to adhere to these standards, the FSSAI can impose penalties to ensure compliance.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
Legal Advantage: Having an FSSAI registration or license provides a legal advantage to food businesses. It helps in avoiding unnecessary legal issues and penalties, ensuring smooth business operations.
Consumer Trust: An FSSAI license is a mark of assurance for consumers, indicating that the food products are safe and adhere to food safety standards. This builds trust and confidence among consumers.
Marketing Advantage: Businesses with an FSSAI license can use the FSSAI logo on their products, which can serve as a powerful marketing tool. It can attract more customers who are conscious about food safety and quality.
Business Expansion: With an FSSAI license, food businesses can easily expand their operations. It facilitates obtaining loans and funding, entering into business contracts, and exploring new markets.
Improved Food Safety: Regular inspections and audits under the FSSAI guidelines ensure that food businesses maintain high standards of hygiene and safety, leading to improved food quality.
Also Check: Food Licence Renewal
Conclusion
FSSAI registration is an essential compliance requirement for all food business operators in India. It ensures that food businesses adhere to the prescribed food safety standards, thereby protecting consumer health and safety. By obtaining an FSSAI license, food businesses can not only ensure legal compliance but also build consumer trust, improve business credibility, and facilitate business growth. Therefore, every food business, irrespective of its size and nature, should prioritize FSSAI registration to ensure a successful and sustainable operation.
