Food License

What is a Food License?

Entrepreneurs planning to set up a food-related business, whether it involves food processing, manufacturing, packaging or distribution, must obtain registration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). FSSAI is a legal body that provides a food license to all food business operators (FBOs) in India, ensuring adherence to regulations for quality control of food. The type of license or registration required by an FBO is dependent on various factors such as the size of production, nature of food business activities and scope of operation.

During the FSSAI Registration process, the FBO receives a 14-digit number which must be printed on the food packages, to provide traceability and accountability. FSSAI Registration is a food safety certificate issued by the food authority in India that ensures the safety and security of food products. All food manufacturers, traders, restaurants, grocery shops, importers and exporters are eligible for obtaining FSSAI License, which ensures that food products undergo specific quality checks, thereby reducing the incidents of adulteration and substandard products.

Types Of FSSAI License

Businesses engaged in food activities are required to apply for food licence of different types based on turnover, scale of business and the type of activity. The Types of FSSAI Food licence are as follows:

  1. Basic FSSAI Registration: This registration is suitable for small-sized businesses or start-ups with an annual turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakhs. Basic registration can be upgraded based on business growth.
  2. State FSSAI License: The State FSSAI License is suitable for medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover of more than Rs. 12 lakhs and up to Rs. 20 crores. The state license can be further upgraded to a central license based on business growth.
  3. Central FSSAI License: The Central FSSAI License is required for large businesses with an annual turnover of more than Rs. 20 crores. It is also necessary for businesses supplying to government offices or involved in the import/export of food products.

Benefits of Food License

  1. With the rise of digital media, consumers are becoming more aware of the quality of the food they consume. Holding a valid FSSAI license can improve a business’s credibility.
  2. The FSSAI logo is widely recognized, contributing to consumer trust and goodwill.
  3. FSSAI registration streamlines the entire process, from food production to distribution and sales.
  4. Science-based principles are emphasized, making food manufacturing more reliable.
  5. FSSAI registration ensures that important aspects of hygiene and cleanliness are followed.
  6. FSSAI license or registration helps businesses produce quality food products that meet international standards.
  7. FSSAI license positively impacts a company’s dependability and production, creating opportunities for growth and expansion.
  8. FSSAI license is crucial for exporting food products to other countries.
  9. FSSAI is responsible for establishing guidelines and procedures for quality assurance of accredited labs as per ISO17025.

Rietway Consultants Food License Package

The Services which are included in our package are as Follows:
✅ Consultation for Type of license required
✅ Preparation of Documents
✅Application Filing
✅Paying Government Fees

Food License Procedure

Step -1: Arrange all Required Documents: The first step is to arrange all the documents and send the same over the email / WhatsApp to us. Once all the Documents are Received, we will Start the Further Process.
Step – 2: Preparation of Documents: The Next Step is Preparation of Documents to be Submitted at Department.
Step – 3: Filling Of Application For FSSAI Registration: The next Step is Filling Of Application For FSSAI Registration.
Step – 4: After approval of the application for grant of Food Registration the FSSAI issues a certificate of registration and a Photo Photo ID card of the Food Business Operator (FBO). The certificate, as well as Photo ID Card, need to be displayed in a prominent place at all times within business premises.

Documents Required for Obtaining Food License

  1. Identification documents such as Aadhaar Card or Voter ID Card of the Proprietor, Partners, or Directors.
  2. Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum of Association.
  3. PAN Card and expected turnover details.
  4. Proof of premises ownership or rental agreement along with a No Objection Certificate from the owner.
  5. Photographs of promoters or partners.
  6. PAN Card of each promoter or partner.
  7. Identity proof of promoters or partners.
  8. Address proof of promoters or partners. The validity of the FSSAI License may vary depending on the type of license obtained and other factors.

The FSSAI license is valid for a duration of 1 to 5 years. As per FSSAI regulations, the food business operator must apply for license renewal within 30 days before its expiration date. If the renewal application is filed after the expiry date, a late fee of Rs. 100 per day for each day of delay is applicable. Therefore, it is crucial for food business operators to keep track and ensure that their FSSAI license is always valid.

FAQ on Food License

Q1. Do a hawker need FSSAI registration?
A mobile food vendor or itinerant, commonly known as a hawker, is required to register with the FSSAI. As they do not have a fixed business location, they are not required to provide premises-related documents during registration. It is recommended that they register on their own to save costs. However, petty retailers such as snack or tea shops that operate from fixed premises are not considered mobile food vendors or itinerants, and therefore must apply for FSSAI registration if their turnover is less than 12 lakhs. If their turnover exceeds 12 lakhs, they must obtain a state-level license.

Q2 What are the different categories of licence?
There are two categories of FSSAI licenses, namely Central License and State License. Depending on the nature of the business, turnover, and area of operation, FBOs can apply for either of them. For example, a State License is mandatory for FBOs with a turnover ranging from Rs. 12 lakh to 20 crore in case of retail business or Rs. 30 crore if operating as wholesalers. In case the turnover exceeds the maximum limit prescribed for a State License, the FBO must obtain a Central License.

If an FBO operates in more than one state, they are required to obtain a Central License at the registered office/head office in addition to the State License. Importers must hold a single Central License at the address where the Import Export Code (IEC) is registered.

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Q3 What is the validity period of FSSAI Registration?
The licence is valid for the period for which it is issued i.e 1 to 5 Years unless it is cancelled by the FSSAI. An application for renewal must be made before the expiry of the licence. It can be renewed for a maximum period of five years.

Q4 Can an FBO carry on different activity at the same premises under one FSSAI Registration?
If an FBO’s business activities are related, a single FSSAI registration would suffice. For instance, if the FBO is involved in both fruit and vegetable processing, as well as running a godown or store. However, if the FBO’s business activities are unrelated, separate FSSAI registration would be required. For example, if an FBO processes meat, milk, and fruits and vegetables.

Q5 What will happen if you fail to get renewal of Fssai License?
In case of forgetting to make a renewal of food license have to pay a penalty of Rs. 100 per day within the specified validity time after that your license can be cancelled and need to apply for a fresh license.