FSSAI License Process, Documents, and Fees: A Complete Guide

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FSSAI License Process, Documents, and Fees: A Complete Guide

The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is a national-level food safety regulating and supervising authority in India. Every food business operator must get an FSSAI license to prove their compliance with food safety standards established by the government. An FSSAI license assures that food products are safe for human consumption and are manufactured, processed, and distributed in hygienic conditions. This article can helpful as a complete guidance about FSSAI License Process, documents, and fees.

What is FSSAI License?

It safeguards the food products you market and guarantees their quality and hygiene. This license is essential for any food business anywhere in India including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and restaurants.

FSSAI licenses are issued depending on the size and scale of the food businesses:

  • Basic Registration: For small food businesses with a turnover of less than ₹12 lakh annually.
  • State License: For medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
  • Central License: For large businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crore or those involved in the international food trade.

Each of these licenses requires the business to comply with different sets of rules, regulations, and documentation as per guidelines issued by Food Safety System in India.

FSSAI License Process

The process of obtaining an FSSAI license can be broken down into a few simple steps:

Step 1: FSSAI License Required

The first step is determining which type of FSSAI license you need for your business. This depends on the size of your business, its turnover, and the nature of operations.

  • Basic Registration: For small-scale food businesses.
  • State License: For medium-scale businesses that fall within the specified turnover range.
  • Central License: For large businesses or those with interstate or international operations.

Step 2: Online Registration

  • Sign Up: If you do not already have an account, you will need to register with FSSAI by providing basic details about your food business. You will then receive a user ID and password to access the application form.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

After logging into the portal, fill out the online application form for the relevant FSSAI license type. The application form requires you to provide detailed information about your food business, such as:

  • Business Name
  • Address of the Business
  • Type of Business (Manufacturing, Catering, Retail, etc.)
  • Turnover details
  • Food category (type of food products being sold)

Step 4: Submit Required Documents

After filling in the application form, you will need to submit certain documents (explained in detail below) as per the type of license you’re applying for.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Once the application form is complete and all documents are uploaded, you will need to pay the FSSAI application fee. The fee varies based on the type of license and the size of the business.

Step 6: Verification and Approval

The FSSAI will review your application and documents. If everything is in order, they will issue the license. If the authorities require any additional information, they may ask for clarification or further documentation.

Step 7: Receive Your FSSAI License

Once approved, you will receive your FSSAI license number. You can download the license from the official FSSAI portal. The license will be valid for one to five years, depending on the renewal option you selected during registration.

Related Article: How to Apply FoSCoSFssai license

Documents Required for FSSAI License

The documents required for obtaining an FSSAI license will vary depending on the type of license and the scale of your business. Below are the general documents needed for Basic Registration, State License, and Central License:

Basic Registration (for small businesses)

  • Proof of Identity: PAN card, Aadhaar card, or any government-issued ID.
  • Proof of Address: Utility bills, rent agreements, or any official document.
  • Food Business Details: Nature of the business, premises, and type of food being sold.
  • Food Safety Management Plan (optional): For businesses dealing with more complex food production processes.

State License (for medium businesses)

  • Application Form: As mentioned above, you need to fill out the relevant form for state licensing.
  • Proof of Identity: Identity proof of the business owner.
  • Address Proof: The business address proof, such as a lease agreement or utility bill.
  • Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan: This document should outline how you ensure food safety at your premises.
  • List of Food Products: Details of the types of food you sell.
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC): If you’re operating from a rented property, a no-objection certificate from the landlord is required.

Central License (for large businesses or those with interstate operations)

  • Application Form: Complete the online application form for a Central License.
  • Food Safety Management System (FSMS): A comprehensive plan for how food safety is ensured at your business.
  • List of Products and Services: The list of food products and services offered by the business.
  • Proof of Ownership/Lease: Documents that establish the legal ownership or lease of the business premises.
  • Import/Export Details: If you are involved in international trade, you may need to provide import/export documentation.
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC): Required in case of shared premises.

FSSAI License Fees

The FSSAI license fee depends on the type of license (Basic Registration, State License, or Central License) and the duration of validity. The license fee varies based on the turnover of the business and its operational scale.

  • Basic Registration Fee: ₹100-₹500 annually (depending on the nature of the business).
  • State License Fee: ₹2,000-₹5,000 annually (depending on the size and turnover of the business).
  • Central License Fee: ₹7,500-₹25,000 annually (for large businesses or those dealing with interstate trade).

The fees can be paid through the FSSAI portal fssai.gov.in using various online payment methods, such as credit/debit cards, net banking, or other available options.

Conclusion

Obtaining and maintaining an FSSAI license is crucial for ensuring that your food business meets the required safety and hygiene standards. Whether you are a small food vendor, a restaurant owner, or a large food manufacturing business, the FSSAI license registrationa pplication is a necessary step for legal operation. By following the correct process, submitting the required documents, and paying the appropriate fees, you can ensure your business complies with India’s food safety regulations.

Remember to stay on top of the renewal process as well, as running a food business without a valid FSSAI license can lead to penalties, fines, and even business closure.

For professional assistance with tax planning, FSSAI licensing, and other compliance-related issues, KcorpTax offers expert services that can streamline the entire process for you. With their comprehensive support, you can focus on growing your food business while ensuring it remains fully compliant with all legal requirements. Reach out to KcorpTax for guidance on navigating FSSAI licensing, tax filings, and much more.

FAQs

  1. What is the FSSAI License and why is it important?

The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license is a mandatory certification for food businesses in India. It ensures that the business complies with food safety and hygiene standards, making it legally compliant to operate.

  • How can I apply for an FSSAI license?

To apply for an FSSAI license, you can visit the FSSAI website or consult an FSSAI registered consultant. You will need to fill out the application form, provide necessary documents, and pay the required fee for your license category.

  • What documents are required for an FSSAI license?

The essential documents include a business registration certificate, identity proof of the owner, address proof of the business location, and food safety management system certification (if applicable), among others.

  • How much does the FSSAI license cost?

The cost of the FSSAI license varies depending on the scale of your business. For a basic registration, the fee may start from Rs. 100, while for state or central licenses, the fee may range from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 7,500 annually.

  • How long does it take to get an FSSAI license?

The processing time for an FSSAI license can range from 30 days to 60 days, depending on the type of application and the completeness of your documents. Ensure all required documents are submitted to avoid delays.

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