FSSAI License in India

Key Functions of FSSAI

1. Setting Standards: FSSAI sets standards for food products in India, which encompass quality, safety, and hygiene. These standards are based on international practices and scientific principles and aim to ensure that food products meet specific criteria for consumption.

2. Regulation: FSSAI regulates various aspects of the food industry, including food manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and advertising. This regulation is necessary to ensure that food businesses adhere to established guidelines.

3. Licensing and Registration: FSSAI is responsible for the licensing and registration of Food Business Operators (FBOs) in India. FBOs are required to obtain FSSAI licenses or registrations based on the scale of their operations.

4. Inspection and Surveillance: The authority conducts inspections, surveillance, and monitoring of food businesses to ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene standards. This includes inspecting food manufacturing units, storage facilities, and retail outlets.

5. Public Awareness: FSSAI plays a role in creating awareness among the public regarding food safety and nutrition. It educates consumers about making informed choices and understanding food labels.

6. Research and Development: FSSAI is involved in research and development related to food safety and standards. It collaborates with scientific organizations and experts to stay updated on emerging food safety concerns.

Who Can Obtain the FSSAI License or Registration?

The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) Basic Registration is a regulatory requirement for various businesses involved in food-related activities. It's mandatory for:

1. Small-scale food operations: Businesses dealing with specific quantities of food items per day fall under this category. For instance, those handling less than 100 kg/ltr per day of food capacity (excluding certain items like milk and meat products) need this registration.

2. Milk-related activities: Entities processing up to 500 litres of milk per day or producing 2.5 Metric Tons (MT) of milk solids annually are required to obtain this registration.

3. Vegetable oil processing: Businesses with turnovers of up to 100 kg or liters per day in vegetable oil-related processes also need this registration.

4. Larger-scale meat processing and slaughtering: Entities handling more than 100 kgs per day or 30 MT per day in meat processing or with slaughtering capacities under specified limits for different animals (2 large animals, 10 small animals, or 50 poultry birds per day) fall under this requirement.

5. Various food-related businesses: Cold storage units, wholesalers, retailers, distributors, dhaba owners, clubs/canteens, hotels/restaurants, and transporters with turnovers up to Rs.12 lakhs annually must also secure this registration to comply with FSSAI regulations.

Benefits of Obtaining an FSSAI Central License

1. Global Recognition: The FSSAI License establishes a credible global identity for businesses, enhancing their brand recognition on an international scale.

2. Business Expansion: Possession of an FSSAI Central License facilitates easy expansion into new locations and the opening of additional outlets. Moreover, it simplifies access to financial support, including loans, for business growth.

3. Legal Assurance: This license provides a sense of security and legal compliance for everyone involved in the food industry. It acts as evidence of maintaining food quality and safety standards.

4. Consumer Confidence: Given the growing consumer awareness regarding food quality, having an FSSAI License instills trust among consumers, resulting in an expanding customer base.

5. Enhance Business Opportunities: FSSAI registration can facilitate collaborations with suppliers, distributors, and traders. Many B2B partners prefer working with FSSAI-registered businesses, leading to increased sales and business growth.

Procedure of FSSAI Registration