It’s the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) that monitors the safety of food products in India. Food Safety Standards are ensured by licensing food manufacturers, distributors, and sellers to protect the health of their consumers. One of the most valuable things in this whole system is the FSSAI License Number, which gives weight to a food business concerning FSSAI. With the increasing concerns about food safety, there are also cases where companies may falsely claim to be FSSAI-certified when in reality, it does not have a valid license.
Hence, it is pertinent for customers to check if that FSSAI License Number is authentic or counterfeit before buying their food products.
Why Is the FSSAI License Important?
Before diving into how to verify an FSSAI license number, it’s important to understand why it is crucial:
- Ensures Food Safety: The FSSAI license confirms that the food business is compliant with the established food safety regulations and guidelines.
- Consumer Trust: A valid FSSAI license builds consumer confidence in the food products, ensuring they meet hygiene and safety standards.
- Legal Requirement: It is mandatory for food businesses to have an FSSAI license to operate legally in India, whether they are a food manufacturer, seller, or retailer.
How to Verify the FSSAI License Number: Step-by-Step Guide
Verifying an FSSAI license number is relatively easy and can be done in a few simple steps. Below are the methods you can use to check the authenticity of an FSSAI license number:
1. Visit the Official FSSAI Website
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India provides a FSSAI License Number Verification feature on its official website. Follow these steps to verify the license:
- Step 1: Navigate to the “License” tab on the homepage.
- Step 2: Under this tab, you’ll find the “FSSAI License Number Verification” option.
- Step 3: Enter the FSSAI License Number of the business in the verification section.
- Step 4: Click on the “Verify” button.
- Step 5: The website will display the verification result. If the number is valid, it will show details like the name of the license holder, license number, and other relevant information.
2. Use the FSSAI Mobile App
The FSSAI also offers a mobile application called “FSSAI Food Safety Connect” for easier access to food safety information, including license verification. You can download the app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Step 1: Download and install the FSSAI Food Safety Connect app on your smartphone.
- Step 2: Enter the FSSAI license number of the business and hit the “Verify” button.
- Step 3: The app will provide the status of the license, along with details about the food business.
3. Check the FSSAI License Number on Food Packaging
Most food products sold in India are required to display their FSSAI license number on the packaging. The license number is usually printed on the packaging, along with the FSSAI logo. However, some businesses may print fake or outdated numbers.
To verify the number from the packaging:
- Step 1: Look for the FSSAI logo and license number on the product’s packaging. The license number is usually 14 digits long.
- Step 2: Cross-check the license number by visiting the official FSSAI License Number Verification page on the website or using the mobile app as described above.
4. Check the License Number Format
FSSAI license numbers are not random but follow a specific format that can help you identify whether the number seems legitimate. A valid FSSAI license number typically contains 14 characters:
- First digit: Represents the state code.
- Next 13 digits: This is the unique registration number of the business.
For example, if a license number starts with “10012021000045,” it indicates the business is based in Uttar Pradesh (code “100”) and is registered under FSSAI with a unique license number.
How to Spot Fake FSSAI License Numbers
While checking the FSSAI license number, it’s also crucial to be aware of some red flags that may indicate a fake license number:
1. Incorrect Format
A valid FSSAI license number should have a consistent format, as discussed earlier (14 characters with a state code). If the number is too short, too long, or doesn’t follow the standard format, it may be fake.
2. No Details Provided
If the FSSAI license number is real, it should return detailed information, including the business name, registration date, and validity period. If the verification tool shows no results or returns incorrect details, the license number is likely fake.
3. Unregistered Business Name
If the business name provided by the FSSAI verification tool doesn’t match the product or brand you’re investigating, then the license number could be fake.
4. No FSSAI Logo or License Number on Packaging
Legitimate food businesses are required to display the FSSAI logo and license number on their packaging. If a product doesn’t display the number or logo, or if it’s hidden or difficult to find, the business may not be FSSAI-registered.
5. Look for Official FSSAI Registration Number
FoSCoS-FSSAI provides a unique number for each registered food business. If the business refuses to provide or incorrectly claims their FSSAI license number, they may be operating without proper licensing.
What to Do if You Find a Fake FSSAI License Number
If you discover that a business is using a fake or invalid FSSAI license number, it is essential to take the following actions:
- Avoid Purchasing Products: Refrain from buying or consuming products from that business as they may not meet food safety standards.
- Report to Authorities: You can report the business to the local Food Safety Officer or FSSAI for further investigation and action.
- Inform the Business: If you believe a business has a fake license, contact them directly and request clarification or proof of their FSSAI certification.
Conclusion
Ensuring the authenticity of an FSSAI License Number is vital for consumer safety. With increasing instances of food fraud, it’s essential to verify whether a food product comes from a certified source. By using the official FSSAI website online, mobile app, or checking the packaging for proper labelling, you can easily confirm the legitimacy of a business’s FSSAI license number. Remember, a valid FSSAI license registration certificate guarantees that a food product meets the health and safety standards established by the government of India.
FAQs
How can I verify if an FSSAI License is real?
You can verify an FSSAI license by visiting the official FSSAI website or using the FSSAI Food Safety Connect app to check the license number.
What is the format of a valid FSSAI license number?
A valid FSSAI license number contains 14 characters, including a state code followed by the business registration number.
What should I do if I find a fake FSSAI license number?
Report the fake FSSAI license number to the local Food Safety Officer or FSSAI for further investigation.
Is it mandatory for all food businesses to have an FSSAI license?
Yes, it is mandatory for all food businesses in India to be registered or licensed by the FSSAI.
Can an FSSAI license number be fake?
Yes, some businesses may provide fake or expired FSSAI license numbers. It is essential to verify the number to ensure authenticity.
Do I need an FSSAI license to sell homemade food products?
Yes, even homemade food businesses must register with the FSSAI if they plan to sell their products commercially.
Where can I find the FSSAI license number on packaging?
The FSSAI license number is usually printed on the packaging of the food product along with the FSSAI logo.
What information will I get when verifying an FSSAI license number?
The verification process will provide details such as the business name, registration date, and license validity period.
Can I verify the FSSAI license number using a mobile app?
Yes, you can use the FSSAI Food Safety Connect mobile app to easily verify the FSSAI license number.
By following these steps and precautions, you can ensure that you are purchasing food products from certified and compliant businesses.
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