The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a government-run body that oversees and regulates the Indian food industry. It is a self-governing body under India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 (FSS Act), which is a consolidating act related to food safety and regulation in India, gave birth to the FSSAI. It ensures that food products are subjected to quality tests, reducing food adulteration and the sale of inferior goods. It is in charge of registering and licencing Food Business Operators (FBO) in India, as well as establishing the laws and regulations that govern the food industry in the country. fssai registration fees, foscos fssai registration status, documents required for fssai registration.
Register with the FSSAI.
Every food business operator who manufactures, processes, stores, distributes, or sells food must get an FSSAI registration or licence. FSSAI Registration differs from FSSAI License in that FBOs should get the appropriate registration or licence based on the size and nature of their operation.
It’s a 14-digit registration or licence number found on all food containers. The 14-digit registration number contains information on the assembling state as well as the producer’s licence. This registration method is intended to increase the FBO’s responsibilities for maintaining food product quality. The Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, govern the procedure and conditions for licencing and registration.
FSSAI Registration Required for Food Business Operators (FBOs)
The following types of FBOs are required to obtain an FSSAI Registration/License:
- Retail shops and petty retailers such as Retail Shops, Snack Shops, Confectionery or Bakery Shops, and so on.
- Gol gappa stalls, chat stalls, fruits/vegetables vendors, Tea stalls, snacks stalls, Bread pakodas stalls, Samosa stalls, Chinese food stalls, South Indian food stalls, sweet stalls, juice shops, and so on are examples of temporary or fixed stalls or food premise involved in the preparation, distribution, storage, and sale of food products.
- Hawkers are people who wander from one site to another selling packaged or freshly prepared food (typically on foot or with portable carts).
- Milk Chilling Units, Petty Milkmen, and Milk Vendors are all examples of dairy businesses.
- Processing Units for Vegetable Oil
- Meat shops, mutton shops, chicken shops, lamb meat shops, and so on are examples of slaughterhouses.
- Units for the preparation of meat and fish
- All food processing and manufacturing operations, including repackaging of proprietary and novel foods.
- Storage facility for chilled or frozen goods.
- Food transporter with a variety of specialised vehicles such as insulated refrigerated vans/wagons, milk tankers, food waggons, and food trucks, among others.
- Food distributor, wholesaler, supplier, and marketer.
- Hotels, restaurants, and bars are just a few of the places where you can stay.
- Canteens and cafeterias, including canteens that serve mid-day meals.
- Caterers and food vending services
- Dhabas, PGs that serve food, banquet halls that supply food, home-based canteens, and food booths at fairs and religious institutions are all examples of food stalls.
- Importers and exporters of food products, including ingredients for food.
- Cloud kitchens are a type of e-commerce food vendor.
Each of the above-mentioned types of enterprises requires a different form of FSSAI license/registration based on their eligibility criteria. On the FSSAI, you may find the eligibility requirements for each type of business and license/registration.
FSSAI Registrations: What Are They and How Do They Work?
The FSSAI registers businesses based on their type of company, turnover, and production capacity. FBOs can get a basic licence, a central licence, or a state licence, depending on their installed capacity and turnover.
FSSAI Basic Registration is required for FBOs with a yearly sales of less than Rs.12 lakh. Form A is the FSSAI registration form that must be completed by the applicant in order to receive FSSAI basic registration.
FSSAI State License – FBOs with a revenue of more than Rs.12 lakh per annum but less than Rs.20 crore per annum must apply for a state licence from the FSSAI.
Form B is the FSSAI registration form that must be filled out by the applicant in order to get an FSSAI state licence.
FSSAI Central License – FBOs with a yearly turnover of over Rs.20 crore are required to obtain an FSSAI central licence. The applicant must complete Form B of the FSSAI registration form in order to get an FSSAI central licence.
Online Registration/License from the FSSAI
FBOs can apply for FSSAI registration via the FoSCoS portal by completing and submitting Form A (application for Registration) or Form B (application for State and Central License). FBOs can also register via the Food and Safety Department by submitting Form A or Form B.
All needed documentation must be submitted with the FSSAI registration form. The documents must be uploaded to the FoSCos portal while filling out the application, or physically submitted to the Food and Safety Department with the application.
Within seven days of receiving an application, either physically or electronically through the FoSCoS portal, the Department can accept or reject it. The applicant must be notified in writing if their application has been rejected.
The documents that have been provided will be examined by the Department.
Before granting the FSSAI registration certificate, the Department may undertake an inspection of the food establishments.
If the Department determines that the FBO fits all of the requirements, it will issue an FSSAI registration certificate that includes the registration number as well as a photo of the applicant’s email address. Logging into the FoSCoS portal also allows the applicant to download the FSSAI registration certificate.
During business hours, the FSSAI registration certificate should be conspicuously displayed at the FBO’s location.
Eligibility for FSSAI Membership
The FSSAI Registration is a baseline licence that all FBOs in the small-scale food business must have. These businesses are included in this category:
- Any FBO having a revenue of less than Rs. 12 lakh in a given year.
- Food products are sold by a shabby shop.
- Any individual who produces or sells food products on his or her own.
- The temporary stallholder is in charge of food sales.
- Except for a caterer, anyone who serves meals during a religious or social gathering.
- Food-related small-scale or cottage industries, such as:
Affiliation with the FSSAI
The FSSAI licence is required for all other FBOs excluding small-scale enterprises. FSSAI licences are divided into two categories: state and central, depending on the size of the enterprise (medium or big scale).
FBOs with large manufacturing units, importers, exporters, and other large-scale food businesses must obtain FSSAI registration from the federal government, whereas FBOs with small to medium-sized manufacturing units, transporters, marketers, traders, and other small to medium-sized manufacturing units must obtain FSSAI registration from the state government. A FBO with a revenue of between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 20 crore can apply for a State License.
Other requirements include industrial facilities with a daily capacity of 2MT and dairy operations with a daily capacity of 5000 litres. 3-star hotels, repackers, relabeling units, clubs, canteens, and any other catering businesses, regardless of revenue, must apply for a licence. The licence has a maximum of 5 years and a minimum of 1 year of validity.
A FBO with a turnover of more than Rs. 20 crores and operations in two or more states can apply for a central licence. This licence is required of all importers and exporters. The maximum tenure is five years, with a one-year minimum.
Documents for FSSAI Registration / License
For FSSAI basic registration, FSSAI state licence, and FSSAI central licence, the following documents are required:
- Operators of food businesses must have photo identification.
- A certificate of business constitution, such as a partnership deed, a certificate of incorporation, a shop and establishment licence, or another certificate of business registration.
- Proof of business premises occupancy, such as a leasing agreement, a letter of authorization from the landlord, utility bills, and so on.
- Plan for food safety management.
- Food products that have been produced or processed are listed below.
- Details of your bank account
- Supporting documentation (if necessary), such as a municipal or panchayat NOC, a health NOC, a copy of the manufacturer’s licence, and so on.
- Aside from the generic requirements listed above, the FSSAI state licence and FSSAI central licence each require the submission of specific documents.
The following are the precise documents needed to receive a state license from the FSSAI:
- Completed and signed Form B
- The dimensions and operation-wise area allocation of the processing unit are shown in this plan.
- Address, contact information, and photo ID for all Directors/Partners/Proprietors
- Name and list of all equipment and machinery utilised, including number and installed capacity Authority letter from manufacturer naming and addressing a responsible person
- Water analysis report to ensure the process’ portability
- Copies of certificates received under the Cooperative Act of 1861 and the Multi-State Cooperative Act of 2002.
To obtain an FSSAI central licence, in addition to the general licence, the following specific documents must be submitted:
- Completed and signed Form B
- The dimensions and operation-wise area allocation of the processing unit are shown in this plan.
- Address, contact information, and photo ID for all Directors/Partners/Proprietors
- The number and installed capacity of the equipment and machinery used, as well as the name and description of the equipment and machinery used.
- A responsible person was named and their address was specified in an authority letter from the manufacturer.
- Water analysis report to ensure the process’ portability
- Milk, meat, and other foodstuffs can be obtained from a variety of sources.
- If necessary, create a recall plan.
- Supporting document for proof of turnover and transportation Declaration form: Ministry of Commerce Certificate for 100% EOU NOC/PA document issued by FSSAI IE code document issued by DGFT Form IX Certificate from Ministry of Tourism
Fees to Join the FSSAI
While submitting the FSSAI registration form, the applicant/FBO must pay the fees. The following are the fees charged by the FSSAI for various types of registration:
- Fee of Rs.100 for the FSSAI Basic Registration
- Fee ranges from Rs.2,500 to Rs.5,000 for an FSSAI state licence (Depends on the type of business carried out)
- Fee of Rs.7,500 for an FSSAI Central License
Status of the FSSAI
At various stages of FSSAI application processing, an applicant is notified via SMS/Email alert. The applicant can also check the status of their FSSAI registration by using the ‘Track Application Status’ tab on the FoSCoS website and entering the application reference number they received after submitting their application to FSSAI. For step-by-step instructions on how to track the status of your FSSAI application, click here.
Tracking the application status allows you to see the various stages of the FSSAI registration process. When the FSSAI registration status is ‘Application Reverted,’ it means that the application has been reverted back to the FSSAI authorities for any necessary changes or clarifications. To avoid rejection of the application, the applicant must respond within 30 days of the reverted date.
When the FSSAI registration certificate is issued, the FSSAI registration status will be displayed as ‘Registration Certificate Issued.’ Logging into the FoSCoS website allows applicants to download the certificate.
Getting an FSSAI Food License Has Its Advantages
Obtaining a licence can provide legal benefits to a food business, as well as increase goodwill, ensure food safety, raise consumer awareness, and aid in business expansion. In addition, it aids in the regulation of import food production, storage, distribution, and sale. When an FBO is registered with the FSSAI, raising funds from investors is simple.
Customers can be assured of food quality by looking for the FSSAI logo on food products. The FSSAI registration number displayed on the food premises indicates that the establishment meets all hygiene and quality requirements.
Non-Consequences Compliance’s
The FSSAI requires anyone who is registered or licenced to follow the FSS Act’s rules and regulations. In most cases, a food safety officer inspects the food business operator’s facility and uses a checklist to determine the level of regulatory compliance. The food safety officer assigns a grade based on the level of compliance.
Observation (C)
Failure to comply (NC)
Complying in part (PC)
Not in use/not noticed (NA)
In accordance with Section 32 of the FSS Act, 2006, the food safety officer may issue an improvement notice if necessary. If the business owner does not comply with the improvement notice, the officer may suspend or revoke his licence after giving him an opportunity to show cause. An appeal can be made to the State Commissioner of Food Safety by any food business owner who has been harmed by an improvement notice. An appeal to the Food Safety Appellate Tribunal/High Court can be filed in response to the decision.
To obtain an FSSAI central licence, in addition to the general licence, the following specific documents must be submitted:
- Completed and signed Form B
- The dimensions and operation-wise area allocation of the processing unit are shown in this plan.
- Address, contact information, and photo ID for all Directors/Partners/Proprietors
- The number and installed capacity of the equipment and machinery used, as well as the name and description of the equipment and machinery used.
- A responsible person was named and their address was specified in an authority letter from the manufacturer.
- Water analysis report to ensure the process’ portability
- Milk, meat, and other foodstuffs can be obtained from a variety of sources.
- If necessary, create a recall plan.
- Supporting document for proof of turnover and transportation: Ministry of Commerce Certificate for 100% EOU NOC/PA document issued by FSSAI IE code document issued by DGFT Form IX Certificate from Ministry of Tourism
- Form of statement
Fees to Join the FSSAI
While submitting the FSSAI registration form, the applicant/FBO must pay the fees. The following are the fees charged by the FSSAI for various types of registration.
Fee of Rs.100 for the FSSAI Basic Registration
Fee ranges from Rs.2,500 to Rs.5,000 for an FSSAI state licence (Depends on the type of business carried out)
Fee of Rs.7,500 for an FSSAI Central License
Status of the FSSAI
At various stages of FSSAI application processing, an applicant is notified via SMS/Email alert. The applicant can also check the status of their FSSAI registration by using the ‘Track Application Status’ tab on the FoSCoS website and entering the application reference number they received after submitting their application to FSSAI. For step-by-step instructions on how to track the status of your FSSAI application, click here.
Tracking the application status allows you to see the various stages of the FSSAI registration process. When the FSSAI registration status is ‘Application Reverted,’ it means that the application has been reverted back to the FSSAI authorities for any necessary changes or clarifications. To avoid rejection of the application, the applicant must respond within 30 days of the reverted date.
When the FSSAI registration certificate is issued, the FSSAI registration status will be displayed as ‘Registration Certificate Issued.’ Logging into the FoSCoS website allows applicants to download the certificate.
FAQ
How do I obtain a copy of the FSSAI registration certificate from the FoSCoS website?
The FSSAI registration certificate will be sent to the FBOs’ email address once the FSSAI authorities have issued it. By logging into the FoSCoS website and clicking on the ‘Issued’ tab on the dashboard, FBOs can also download the FSSAI registration certificate.
On the screen, the details of the FSSAI registration certificate will appear. The FSSAI Registration certificate will open with the download button on the screen after you click on the FSSAI registration number. To learn more about how to obtain a copy of the FSSAI registration certificate, click here.
On the FSSAI registration certificate, what information is provided?
The name and address of the FBO, the address of the food business premises, the type of business, and the validity period are all listed on the FSSAI registration certificate.
In India, how long does the FSSAI licence last?
A FSSAI licence can be obtained for one year to five years. You can choose how long you want to hold an FSSAI License when you apply for one. Your fee may change depending on the length of time you choose.
How do you get your registration or licence renewed after it has expired?
Before the expiration of the validity period, you must renew your FSSAI Registration/license. If you miss the deadline for renewing your FSSAI licence, you will have to apply for a new one.
Is it possible to convert an offline licence to an online licence? How?
Yes, during the renewal process, you can change a manually issued licence to an online one. You can talk to the Designated Officer in charge of that particular area. After that, a Designated Officer can issue you a USER ID and a system-generated licence number, which you can renew online. fssai registration fees, foscos fssai registration status, documents required for fssai registration.
