FSSAI License and Registration for Indian Food Businesses

For businesses involved in manufacturing, storing, transporting, or distributing food within India, securing an FSSAI License or Registration is a crucial legal requirement. The specific type of FSSAI license needed depends on the scale and scope of the operation.

The FSSAI Registration process assigns a unique 14-digit number to the Food Business Operator (FBO), which must be displayed on all food packaging. This license ensures compliance with national food safety standards and provides legal benefits to the food enterprise.

FSSAI Registration

FSSAI Registration is a mandatory requirement for small-scale food manufacturers or Food Business Operators (FBOs) with an annual turnover of less than ?12 lakhs, except those FBOs are required to obtain compulsory licensing. This registration is a basic step towards ensuring food safety and standards compliance, allowing small food businesses to operate legally within India.

FSSAI License

The FSSAI License becomes essential for food enterprises whose turnover exceeds ?12 lakhs. It is particularly crucial for FBOs engaged in food processing and manufacturing. The license is differentiated into two primary categories based on the scale and nature of the business:

State License: Suited for medium-sized food businesses operating within a particular state, with a turnover range typically between ?12 lakhs and ?20 crores.
Central License: Required for larger food businesses, especially those with a turnover exceeding ?20 crores or those involved in import/export activities operating across multiple states.

Validity of FSSAI Registration and License

FSSAI licenses and registrations are not issued with lifetime validity; they have a specific duration and must be renewed periodically to ensure continuous compliance with food safety standards.

Previously, FBOs had the flexibility to choose the validity period of their FSSAI licenses and registrations, ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on the fees paid. However, a significant change has been implemented based on an FSSAI order dated 11th January 2023, effective from 12th January 2023.

According to this new order, the validity periods for FSSAI licenses and registrations have been standardized as follows:

License / Registration  and Duration of Validity

• FSSAI Registration 1 to 5 Years (as per applicant’s choice)
• FSSAI State License 1 year
• FSSAI Central License 1 year

FBOs must ensure the timely renewal of their credentials to avoid disruptions in their food business operations.

Renewal of FSSAI license

Renewal of the FSSAI license is a crucial step that needs to be undertaken before the current license expires. The renewal process is vital to ensure that your food business remains compliant with the latest food safety regulations and standards, avoiding potential legal issues or disruptions in business operations. It’s recommended to start the renewal process well before the license’s expiry date to ensure a smooth continuation of your business activities without any hindrances.

Benefits of Renewing FSSAI License/Registration

Renewing your FSSAI license or Registration brings several benefits that are crucial for the smooth operation and growth of your food business:

• Continuous Legal Compliance: Renewal ensures your food business remains aligned with current food safety laws and regulations, avoiding legal violations.
• Uninterrupted Business Operations: It allows for seamless business activities without the risk of being shut down due to an expired license.
• Consumer Confidence: A valid FSSAI license reassures customers about the safety and quality of your food products, enhancing trust and loyalty.
• Avoidance of Penalties: Timely renewal helps avoid fines and penalties associated with operating under an expired or invalid license.
• Quality Improvement: The renewal process emphasizes the importance of upholding and enhancing food safety and quality standards within your business.
• Market Expansion: A current FSSAI license can be essential for entering new markets and expanding your business, as it’s often a prerequisite for trade and partnerships.
• Brand Credibility: An up-to-date FSSAI license enhances your brand’s reputation, demonstrating a commitment to food safety and quality.
• Regulatory Updates: Renewing your license keeps you informed about new regulations and standards in the food industry, ensuring your business remains compliant.
• Risk Management: It minimizes the risk of food safety incidents and legal issues, protecting your business reputation and financial stability.
• Operational Efficiency: The renewal process encourages businesses to review and optimize their food safety practices and procedures, improving operational efficiency.

FSSAI Renewal Timeline

According to the Food Safety Standard (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, FBOs are given a clear timeline for renewing their FSSAI license or registration. The process should begin 30 days before the permit’s expiration date. However, to accommodate thorough preparation and ensure timely submission, FBOs can start the renewal process as early as 180 days (approximately 6 months) before the license or registration expiry.

Late Fee for Delayed FSSAI License Renewal

If the FSSAI license renewal is not initiated at least 30 days before the permit’s expiration date, Food Business Operators (FBOs) are subject to a late fee penalty. This late fee and the standard renewal fee amount to Rs. 100 per day. It is crucial to understand that this late fee penalty exclusively pertains to the renewal of licenses and is not applicable in the case of FSSAI registration.

The imposition of a late fee incentivizes FBOs to priorities the timely renewal of their licenses, reducing the risk of incurring additional costs associated with delays in the renewal process. Complying with these renewal timelines helps maintain a seamless and cost-effective operation of food businesses.

Renewal of FSSAI License after Expiry Date

When FSSAI license renewal isn’t initiated at least 30 days before the expiry date, Food Business Operators (FBOs) must pay a late fee of Rs. 100 per day, in addition to the standard renewal fee. This late fee is specific to licenses, not registrations, and encourages timely renewal to avoid extra costs.

For renewals after the expiry date, FBOs can keep the same license number but face penalties:

• Up to 90 days late: Three times the regular annual fee.
• 91 to 180 days late: An additional twice the regular annual fee, totaling five times.

Documents Needed for FSSAI License Renewal

When renewing an FSSAI license, the following documents are typically required:

• FSMS Certificate: A certificate demonstrating compliance with the Food Safety Management System.
• Nominee Details Update: Information about the nominee associated with the FSSAI license.
• License Modifications: Details regarding any necessary modifications to the license.
• Supporting Documents for Modifications on Letterhead: Documents supporting any required modifications are provided on official letterhead.
• Additional Licensing Authority Requirements: Any documents requested by the licensing authority to ensure food safety compliance.
• Additional Documents: Any other documents deemed necessary by the licensing authority for the renewal process.

Simplify FSSAI Renewal with ZuluFilings

ZuluFilings is your all-in-one solution for all your FSSAI needs. Whether you are starting a new food business and require FSSAI registration, looking to obtain an FSSAI license to expand your operations or need a seamless renewal process to keep your certification up to date, we’ve got you covered. Our expert team simplifies the entire process, ensuring you meet all the requirements and comply with food safety regulations effortlessly. With ZuluFilings as your partner, you can focus on growing your food business while we take care of the intricate details of FSSAI compliance, making it a hassle-free experience.