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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body established in 2008 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Its priority is to regulate and monitor food safety and hygiene across the country. FSSAI sets standards to ensure the safety, quality and hygiene of food products, covering various aspects from manufacturing to distribution. It also licenses and monitors food businesses to ensure compliance with these standards, with the aim of protecting public health and promoting consumer confidence in the food supply chain.

Importance of FSSAI Registration/License for Food Businesses

  • Safe food for all: FSSAI sets food safety standards. By registering you promise to follow these rules, so that customers receive clean food.
  • Happy Customers, Happy Businesses: People trust businesses with FSSAI registration. It shows that you care about quality and cleanliness, making customers more likely to buy from you.
  • Legal Must Have: It is legal to have FSSAI registration/license! If you don’t have it, you can be fined or even shut down.
  • Grow your Business: With FSSAI license, you can expand to larger markets and get loans from banks more easily.

Types of FSSAI Registration or License

  • FSSAI Basic Registration: This is the simplest and most affordable option, with a one-time registration fee of ₹100. It is ideal for small food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh. Examples of businesses that can apply for basic registration include petty retailers, hawkers, itinerant vendors, and small cafes
  • FSSAI State License: This is required for medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore. The fee for a state license varies depending on the category of the business. Examples of businesses that may require a state license include restaurants, sweet shops, and food manufacturers.
  • FSSAI Central License: This is required for large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crore. The central license fee is also variable depending on the business category. Examples of businesses that need a central license include large manufacturers, exporters, and importers of food products.

Benefits for Businesses and Consumers

  • For Businesses:
    – Legality: FSSAI registration is mandatory by law for all food businesses. Operating without it can lead to hefty fines and penalties.
    – Credibility and Trust: The FSSAI license signifies adherence to food safety standards. This builds trust with consumers, leading to a better brand reputation and potentially increased sales.
    – Access to Markets: Having an FSSAI license allows businesses to participate in larger markets, including supermarkets and other retailers who often require FSSAI compliance from their suppliers.

    – Growth and Funding: Proper licensing makes it easier to secure loans and investments, as it demonstrates a commitment to following regulations.

  • For Consumers:
    – Food Safety: FSSAI registration ensures food businesses comply with hygiene and quality standards, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
    – Transparency: The FSSAI license number displayed on the premises or packaging allows consumers to verify the business’s registration status.
    – Informed Choices: Consumers can make informed decisions by choosing products from registered businesses that prioritize food safety.

FSSAI Registration or License Process

  • Application Submission: FSSAI Registration Application online or offline depending on the Food Business Category.
  • Document Verification: Once the application is submitted, FSSAI authority verifies the documents provided, which include identity proof, address proof, food safety management system plan and other required certificates.
  • Inspection: In some cases, food premises may be inspected by FSSAI officials to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
  • Registration Approval: After successful verification and inspection, the FSSAI registration is approved, and the business is issued a unique 14-digit FSSAI license number.
  • Display of License: FSSAI license should be displayed prominently in the food premises, and then the business can operate legally under FSSAI regulations.
  • Renewal: FSSAI registration is generally valid for one to five years, after which it needs to be renewed to maintain compliance with food safety standards.
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