FSSAI License: State & Central License

If your business sells food or edible items, adhering to the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) Act regulations is crucial. This legal framework requires your business to be officially registered with the government and obtain a license from the Food Safety Department. Whether you are a small-scale or large-scale food business engaged in manufacturing, storing, transporting, or distributing food, obtaining FSSAI registration or a license, depending on your business's size and nature, is essential. Complying with these regulations ensures the country's food products' safety and quality.

At IndiaFilings, we understand the significance of obtaining an FSSAI license for your business, and we're committed to making the process seamless and hassle-free.

Licensing and Registration for Food Businesses in India

According to Section 31(1) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, all Food Business Operators in India must obtain an FSSAI license from the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India. This legal requirement is governed by the Food Safety & Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Business) Regulations, 2011. Any food manufacturing, storage, transportation, or distribution business must hold a valid FSSAI License or Registration. The specific type of authorization, whether registration or license, depends on the scale and nature of the food business.

Who Requires an FSSAI License?

In India, any business engaged in activities such as making, storing, distributing, selling, or importing food products is obligated to secure an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license. This encompasses restaurants, catering services, food processing factories, food delivery ventures, and online food sellers. Both individuals and companies participating in these operations must obtain an FSSAI license to operate lawfully within India.

FSSAI Registration

FSSAI Registration is mandatory for small-scale food manufacturers or Food Business Operators (FBOs) whose turnover is below Rs. 12 Lakhs unless the FBO falls under the category of compulsory licensing. Petty FBOs involved in producing or selling food items, such as hawkers, petty retailers, itinerant vendors, temporary stall-holders, or small-scale food industry enterprises, need to obtain an FSSAI registration certificate if they meet the following conditions:

• Annual Turnover: The turnover should be less than Rs. 12 lahks.
• Production Capacity: Food products (excluding milk, meat, and fish) should not exceed 100 liters or kg daily.
• Milk Procurement: The milk procurement, handling, and collection should be limited to 500 liters daily.
• Slaughtering Capacity: Slaughtering capacity should be up to ten small animals, two large animals, or 50 poultry birds per day or less.
• Food Distribution: Engaging in food distribution at religious or social gatherings, except as a caterer.

The FSSAI registration number, consisting of 14 digits, is issued by the State Licensing Authority. Notably, the first digit of the registration number begins with the digit 2.

FSSAI License for Food Businesses

An FSSAI License is a crucial requirement for enterprises with a turnover exceeding Rs. 12 lakhs and for Food Business Operators (FBOs) engaged in food processing and manufacturing. This license is divided into two primary types: Central FSSAI License and State FSSAI License. The FSSAI license is identified by a 14-digit code with the initial digit 1. The choice between a State or central license depends on the scale of the business.

State License

FBOs such as medium-scale processors, manufacturers, traders, marketers, or transporters fall within the jurisdiction of the FSSAI state license, which the respective state government grants. Medium-sized FBOs with an annual turnover surpassing Rs. 12 lakhs but not exceeding Rs. 20 Crores are required to obtain a state license. A central license becomes mandatory if an FBO's annual turnover exceeds Rs. 20 Crores.

Central License

Large-scale enterprises involved in food processing, transportation, manufacturing, and international trade of food products are obligated to obtain the FSSAI central license. An FBO is classified as a large business if its annual turnover exceeds Rs. 20 Crores, necessitating acquiring the FSSAI central license from the Central Government.

Benefits of Obtaining an FSSAI License for Your Food Business

Obtaining an FSSAI food license offers numerous benefits that contribute to the success and credibility of your food business:

• Legal Compliance: Acquiring an FSSAI license ensures your food business fully complies with regulatory mandates, minimizing legal risks.
• Food Safety Assurance: The license guarantees that your food products adhere to stringent safety standards, giving customers confidence in their quality and safety.
• Building Goodwill: Displaying the FSSAI logo on your products and premises establishes consumer trust, elevating your brand's reputation.
• Consumer Awareness: FSSAI registration highlights your dedication to food safety, promoting consumer awareness, and fostering loyalty.
• Regulation Facilitation: The license streamlines the management of various aspects, such as manufacturing, storage, distribution, and selling of imported food items, ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Attracting Investors: An FSSAI license adds a layer of credibility to your business, making it more attractive to potential investors who value adherence to quality and safety standards.
• Quality Assurance: The FSSAI registration number prominently displayed at your establishment shows your commitment to hygiene and quality, reassuring customers.

By obtaining an FSSAI food license, your business benefits from legal adherence, consumer trust, regulatory facilitation, and enhanced credibility, leading to a more successful and reputable food enterprise.

Validity & Renewal of FSSAI License

The FSSAI License / Registration is issued for 1 to 5 years, as the Food Business Operator chooses. This validity period begins from the date of issuance. Renewal of the FSSAI license is essential for the Food Business Operator (FBO) to initiate the renewal process for the license or registration at least 30 days before the current authorization is set to expire.

Penalties for Conducting Business without an FSSAI License

Any individual or food business operator obligated to acquire a license but engages in activities such as manufacturing, selling, storing, distributing, or importing any food item without the required permit shall be subject to penalties. These penalties include:

• Imprisonment: The offender may face imprisonment for a period that has the potential to extend up to six months.
• Monetary Fine: In addition to imprisonment, the offender can be imposed with a fine, potentially extending up to five lakh rupees.

It is important to note that carrying out food-related business activities without the appropriate FSSAI license can lead to legal consequences, including imprisonment and significant financial penalties.

Why Choose IndiaFilings for Your Food License Needs?

Obtaining an FSSAI License is essential for adhering to regulations, ensuring food safety, building customer confidence, and expanding within the food industry. IndiaFilings is your reliable partner in obtaining an FSSAI license in India. Our team of experts simplifies the process, ensuring accurate documentation and a smooth submission experience. Whether you run a small business or a larger enterprise, IndiaFilings guides you through FSSAI requirements, streamlining compliance and allowing you to focus on your core business operations. Our experienced professionals will assist you in selecting the appropriate food category and license.

Acquiring an FSSAI license through IndiaFilings involves a straightforward process:

• Consultation: Our experts will guide you through the different types of FSSAI licenses based on your business size and activities.
• Document Collection: We'll assist you in gathering the necessary documents for your specific license category.
• Application Preparation: Our team will prepare your FSSAI license application with accurate details and documentation.
• Submission: We will submit your application to the relevant FSSAI authorities.
• Follow-Up: Our experts will handle any queries or follow-up requests from the authorities on your behalf.
• License Issuance: Once approved, your FSSAI license will be issued, allowing you to operate your food business legally.

As specialists in business services, we aid numerous entrepreneurs in acquiring various government licenses every year. Don't delay – take the initial step to secure your food license today! For comprehensive information about registration and licensing, consult our experts.