Food is the lifeblood of existence and to keep a quality check on it is the responsibility of the provider. Just like any other product, food also needs a stamp from an approved organisation. In India, that is the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority). 

FSSAI is an autonomous organisation that works under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It is responsible for licensing and regulating food safety and hygiene standards among food business operators across the country. Further, it provides FSSAI registration for retailers, eCommerce, grocery stores, restaurants, and more. 

As per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act), it is mandatory for all the food providers (retailers, restaurants, etc.) to get their FSSAI registration done. These days, customers are also conscious about the food they are consuming, so any business involved in the food industry must get registered with FSSAI. 

Let’s go down the road and know the aspects of FSSAI registration for retailers, eCommerce, grocery stores, restaurants, and more, and all the nuances revolving around it. 

What is the FSSAI Registration?

When registered under FSSAI, a 14-digit number is given to the business. This number, along with the FSSAI logo, should be affixed on the food packages. Moreover, these measures are necessary for all the operators involved in the food business to ensure the quality of the product that is delivered is top-notch.

Types of FSSAI registrations

There are three different types of food licenses that are issued by the FSSAI. These are: 

1. Central License: Food business operators (retailers, e-commerce, grocery store, restaurants, and more) which come under schedule 1 of FSS Regulations, 2011 and are operating in more than one state are asked to get registered under Central FSSAI for the central license. FBOs that have an annual turnover of 20 crores rupees and more should also go for the Central FSSAI license. Additionally, the validity of this license is 1-5 years.
   
   
2. State License: It is required for all small to medium-sized food business operators to get the FSSAI state permit. This permit is given by the state government to those operators who have activities just in one state. This means, for instance, you should be running operations only in Kerala to get the FSSAI license of Kerala. Moreover, all the companies with a turnover of above 12 lakh rupees and below 20 lakh rupees are to have this license. Validity for the same ranges from 1-5 years. 
   
   
3. Basic Registration: A business with an annual turnover of up to 12 lakh rupees is most likely to go for basic registration. This license holds a maximum tenure of 5 years and with a minimum tenure of 1 year. 

Steps for FSSAI Registration

Step 1

Visit http://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in, the online website. See if you are qualified for a State License, a Central License, or a Basic License. Further, a person applying for an FSSAI license can be eligible for one of the above, depending on turnover.

Step 2

Click on the “sign-up” link after opening the website. Enter the details needed in the sign-up form, along with a valid phone number and email ID. 

Step 3

Create an account by choosing an appropriate username and password for your account. 

Step 4

Log in to your FSSAI account after you have received an SMS or e-mail confirmation. It should be remembered that the account created would be available for just 30 days, after which automatic deactivation occurs. Similarly, within that time, the account owner must apply for an FSSAI license.

Step 5

Fill out the required information after logging in to your FSSAI account. Another thing to keep in mind is that the FSSAI registration process should be finished in one go. If not, the form will deem unfinished and will be denied. Further, you will have to begin the procedure again. 

Step 6

Create a copy of it and take a printout of it before submitting the completed form. Holding a hard copy of the registration form is always advisable, and it might also assist you in future.

Step 7

You can see a reference number on the form after registering for the FSSAI. Note down the number or save it as it will help you track the progress of the registration form for the FSSAI license. 

Step 8

The FSSAI application usually has process within 7 days. If the registration has been accepted, you will get a registration certificate with the FSSAI registration number. Likewise, if it is rejected, you will be intimated about the same. 

FSSAI plays a major role in the protection of public health across India through its operational framework, food safety guidelines, testing laboratories, and other initiatives. For a company wishing to access the booming food market, it is important to apply for the necessary permits. Click here to apply for a basic FSSAI license.

Also read: How to start a food business from home

Image source: shutterstock.com

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