Understanding FSSAI Registration: A Complete Guide

Introduction

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex body responsible for regulating and supervising food safety in India. Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, of 2006, FSSAI aims to ensure that the food products consumed by the public are safe, hygienic, and fit for consumption. Any business involved in the manufacture, distribution, storage, or sale of food products must obtain FSSAI registration or license, depending on the size and nature of the business. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to FSSAI registration, including its importance, types, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step process for obtaining it.

Importance of FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration is crucial for food businesses for several reasons:

• Legal Requirement: FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food-related businesses in India. Operating without it can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

• Consumer Trust: An FSSAI license on a product is a mark of safety and quality. It helps in building consumer trust, which is essential for the success of any food business.

• Business Expansion: Having an FSSAI license can open doors to opportunities, such as partnerships with other businesses, easy access to markets, and eligibility for government schemes and subsidies.

• Regulatory Compliance: FSSAI registration ensures that the business complies with the food safety regulations laid down by the government. It also facilitates regular checks and balances, ensuring the continuous quality of food products.

• Global Recognition: FSSAI is a well-recognized certification in the global market. Businesses aiming to export their products can benefit from having an FSSAI license, as it is often a prerequisite for international trade.

Types of FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration can be classified into three categories based on the size and nature of the business:

Basic FSSAI Registration:

Applicable for small food businesses, including petty food manufacturers, storage units, retailers, marketers, or distributors.

Businesses with an annual turnover of up to INR 12 lakhs can apply for basic registration.

The registration is done by the State Government, and the FSSAI registration number is provided.

State FSSAI License:

The state license is issued by the State Government, and the business must operate within a specific state.

Central FSSAI License:

Mandatory for large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding INR 20 crores.

This license is issued by the Central Government and is necessary for businesses operating in multiple states or dealing with food exports.

Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration

To determine which type of FSSAI registration or license is required, businesses must consider several factors:

• Turnover: The annual turnover of the business is a primary factor in determining the type of registration needed.

• Business Type: The nature of the food business, such as manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, retail, etc., influences the type of license required.

• Scale of Operations: Whether the business operates within a single state or across multiple states also affects the type of FSSAI registration needed.

• Food Categories: The specific categories of food products being handled by the business may also necessitate a particular type of FSSAI license.

Step-by-Step Process of FSSAI Registration

Step 1: Visit the Website:- Visit the official website of fssai registration. Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form:- Fill out the application form with the correct information. With Basic Details:

• Name 

• Mobile number or email ID

• Name of business

• Select the food category 

• Nature of the business 

• A complete address including State, district, and pic code. 

• Upload PAN Card

Step 3: Review and Submit Your Application:- Before submitting, carefully review all the information you have entered. Ensure that all details are correct and required documents are uploaded.

Step 4: Payment of Fees:- After filling out the application form and uploading the required documents, you will need to pay the registration fee. Payment can usually be made online through various methods such as credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI.

Step 5: Verification:- After making a successful payment, Our executive will call you for the OTP that was given on your registered mobile number/ email ID which will help them for further process.

Step 6: Inspection and Approval:- Depending on the type of license, your application may require an inspection by FSSAI officials. They may visit your premises to verify the information provided and ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Step 7: Receive Your FSSAI License:-  Once your application is approved, you will receive your FSSAI license. This can usually be downloaded from the website. 

Note:To renew your FSSAI license, click here – FSSAI LICENSE RENEWAL

Conclusion

FSSAI registration is not just a legal formality but a critical step in ensuring the safety and quality of food products in India. For food businesses, obtaining an FSSAI license is essential to build consumer trust, expand operations, and comply with regulatory standards. By following the steps outlined in this guide, businesses can navigate the registration process smoothly and ensure that they meet all requirements to operate successfully in the food industry.