Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
for
FSSAI
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare of the Government of India. It is responsible for regulating and overseeing the safety, manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food products to ensure public health and consumer safety.
- Formulating Standards: FSSAI sets standards and guidelines for food safety and hygiene to ensure food is safe for consumption.
- Licensing and Registration: All food business operators (FBOs) in India are required to obtain an FSSAI license or registration to operate legally.
- Inspections and Compliance: FSSAI regularly conducts inspections and audits to ensure that food products meet safety standards and regulations.
- Laboratory Testing: It oversees food testing laboratories to monitor food quality and ensure no harmful or substandard products enter the market.
- Consumer Awareness: FSSAI promotes awareness regarding food safety, nutrition, and proper labeling, educating consumers about their rights.
- Regulation of Imports: It monitors and regulates imported food items to ensure they meet Indian safety standards.
- Legal Requirement: It is mandatory for all food businesses, including manufacturers, distributors, restaurants, and street vendors, to obtain FSSAI registration or a license.
- Consumer Confidence: FSSAI certification ensures that food is safe and of good quality, boosting consumer trust.
- Promotes Public Health: Through the enforcement of safety standards, FSSAI plays a crucial role in preventing foodborne illnesses and maintaining public heal
1. What is FSSAI?
FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a statutory body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare responsible for regulating and ensuring food safety and standards in India.
2. Why is FSSAI License important?
An FSSAI License ensures that food businesses comply with the regulations related to food safety. It enhances consumer confidence, guarantees that the food products are safe to consume, and provides legal benefits.
3. Who needs an FSSAI License?
Any food business operator (FBO) involved in manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products is required to obtain an FSSAI license or registration.
4. What are the different types of FSSAI licenses?
There are three types of licenses:
- FSSAI Basic Registration: For small businesses with turnover < ₹12 lakhs.
- FSSAI State License: For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- FSSAI Central License: For large businesses with turnover > ₹20 crores or businesses involved in import/export or operating across multiple states.
5. What is the validity of an FSSAI License?
The FSSAI License is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the license holder's preference. The license needs to be renewed before its expiry to avoid penalties.
6. What happens if I don’t obtain an FSSAI License?
Operating a food business without an FSSAI license can result in penalties, fines, or closure of the business. Fines can range from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh, depending on the violation.
7. How much does it cost to obtain an FSSAI License?
The cost varies based on the type of license:
- Basic Registration: ₹100 per year.
- State License: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year, depending on business type.
- Central License: ₹7,500 per year.
8. What documents are required for FSSAI Registration?
Documents required include:
- Identity and address proof of the applicant.
- Proof of business address.
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan.
- List of food products.
- Other documents like incorporation certificates, depending on the license type.
9. Can the FSSAI License be transferred?
Yes, the FSSAI License can be transferred in the event of the death of the license holder to a legal heir or a nominated person by filing the necessary documents and application.
10. What is the difference between FSSAI Registration and License?
FSSAI Registration is for small-scale food businesses with turnover less than ₹12 lakhs. FSSAI License (State or Central) is for larger businesses with higher turnover or specific types of food operations.
11. What is the Food Safety Management System (FSMS)?
FSMS is a set of preventive measures to ensure food safety from hazards like physical, chemical, and biological risks. A documented FSMS plan is necessary for FSSAI registration or licensing.
12. How long does it take to get an FSSAI License?
The processing time varies:
- Basic Registration: Typically takes 7-10 working days after the Receipt.
- State License: Takes around 30 days after the Receipt
- Central License: May take 45-60 days, depending on inspections and approvals and after the Receipt.
13. What should I do if my FSSAI License expires?
You must renew your FSSAI License before it expires. You can apply for renewal online. Late renewals may attract penalties, and conducting business with an expired license is illegal.
14. Can I make changes to my FSSAI License?
Yes, you can apply for modifications or amendments to the license through the FSSAI portal if there are changes in the business name, address, or food products being manufactured or sold.
15. What is the FSSAI License number?
It is a 14-digit unique number assigned to each FBO, which must be printed on all food packaging labels, allowing consumers to check the authenticity of the product.
16. Can a single business obtain multiple FSSAI Licenses?
Yes, if a business has multiple units operating in different states or regions, it may require multiple licenses, such as a Central License for the head office and State Licenses for individual units.
17. Is FSSAI License required for food import/export?
Yes, all businesses engaged in food import or export are required to obtain an FSSAI Central License.