The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It plays a critical role in regulating and supervising food safety standards in India. FSSAI registration is essential for anyone involved in the food business, including manufacturers, processors, distributors, and retailers. This guide aims to provide a detailed overview of FSSAI registration, its importance, and the step-by-step process to obtain it.
1. Legal Compliance
FSSAI registration is mandatory for food businesses operating in India. It ensures that your business complies with the regulations set by the government, reducing the risk of legal penalties and shutdowns.
2. Consumer Safety
The primary objective of FSSAI is to ensure the safety and quality of food products. By obtaining FSSAI registration, you demonstrate a commitment to consumer safety, which can enhance your brand’s reputation.
3. Market Access
Many businesses and retailers require FSSAI registration as a prerequisite for partnering or collaborating. Having FSSAI certification opens doors to new markets and customer segments.
4. Quality Assurance
FSSAI registration involves adhering to specific standards and guidelines, which can help improve the quality of your products. This not only boosts customer satisfaction but also helps in building a loyal customer base.
5. Brand Trust
Consumers are increasingly conscious of food safety and quality. Having FSSAI registration builds trust with customers, assuring them that your products meet the highest safety standards
FSSAI offers three types of registrations, depending on the size and nature of the food business:
1. FSSAI Registration (Basic)
This is suitable for small-scale food businesses, including petty retailers, hawkers, and small manufacturers with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
2. FSSAI State License
This license is required for medium-sized food businesses, such as restaurants, catering services, and food processing units with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
3. FSSAI Central License
Larger businesses, including those operating in multiple states or involved in import/export, must obtain a central license. This is required for food manufacturers and processors with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.
To be eligible for FSSAI registration, applicants must meet certain criteria, including:
Identify whether you need basic registration, a state license, or a central license based on the scale of your food business. This will determine the documentation and processes required.
Gather the necessary documents for the application process. Commonly required documents include:
Visit the official FSSAI website and fill out the application form specific to the type of registration you are seeking. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
After completing the application form, submit it along with the required documents. You can apply online through the FSSAI’s official portal or submit a hard copy to the relevant office.
Once your application is submitted, the FSSAI will review the documents. For state and central licenses, an inspection of your premises may be conducted by an FSSAI officer to verify compliance with food safety standards.
If your application is approved, you will receive your FSSAI registration certificate. The certificate will include a unique registration number, which must be displayed on your product packaging and promotional materials.