The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ensures that food products are safe for consumption by implementing strict regulations. If you are involved in the food business in India, obtaining an FSSAI license is a mandatory requirement. This article will provide you with a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to get your FSSAI license online, along with useful tips to streamline the process.
What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an independent organization created under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006. Its primary role is to oversee food safety, establish quality standards for food products, and ensure that consumers have access to safe and healthy food. Every food business operator (FBO) in India, whether small or large, must register with FSSAI to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
There are three categories of FSSAI licenses based on the size and nature of the business:
- Basic FSSAI Registration:
- Designed for small food businesses with an annual turnover not exceeding ₹12 lakhs.
- Typically includes small manufacturers, petty food vendors, and small-scale storage units.
- State FSSAI License:
- Applicable to medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover of ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores.
- Includes food manufacturers, processors, retailers, storage units, and distributors operating within a particular state.
- Central FSSAI License:
- Intended for larger businesses with an annual turnover that exceeds ₹20 crores.
- Includes importers, exporters, large manufacturers, chains, and food businesses operating in multiple states.
Benefits of Having an FSSAI License
- Legal Advantage: Ensures your business complies with Indian food safety regulations, protecting you from legal action.
- Consumer Trust: Increases customer confidence in your brand by assuring them of food safety and quality.
- Business Growth: An FSSAI license is essential for exporting food products or for expanding your business into other states.
- Brand Recognition: Helps in building goodwill, increasing credibility and market reach.
Steps to Obtain an FSSAI License Online
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you obtain your FSSAI license online:
Step 1: Determine the Type of License You Need
The first step is to identify whether you need a Basic, State, or Central FSSAI license based on your business turnover and scale of operations. If your business is small and local, the Basic registration will suffice. For larger operations or businesses that operate in multiple states or have a national presence, you’ll need a State or Central license.
Step 2: Visit the FSSAI Online Portal
To apply for an FSSAI license, you need to visit the official Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal or easiest way is to approach Shoplegal. The FLRS portal is designed to make the registration process convenient and easy.
Step 3: Register and Create an Account
- Register: Click on the ‘Sign-Up’ option to create an account. You need to provide basic details such as:
- Name of the Food Business Operator (FBO)
- Contact details (email and phone number)
- Username and password
- Login: After successfully registering, log in to your account using the credentials you’ve created.
Step 4: Fill Out the Application
Once logged in, you will need to choose the type of license you are applying for (Basic, State, or Central). Depending on the type of license, you will be prompted to provide various details about your business. Here’s what you will need:
- Basic Information:
- Name and address of the business
- Contact details
- Type of business (manufacturer, retailer, etc.)
- Category of food products you are handling
- Turnover and scale of the business
- Documents Required:
- For Basic Registration: Photo ID and address proof
- For State and Central License:
- Proof of business premises (rental/lease agreement, utility bill)
- PAN card and Aadhaar card of the business owner
- Food safety management plan
- NOC from the local municipality
- List of food categories and products to be sold
- Form-B duly signed by the proprietor/partner
Make sure all information is accurate and updated before proceeding.
Step 5: Upload Necessary Documents
You will be required to upload the relevant documents. Ensure that all the documents are in the correct format and size, as specified on the portal.
Step 6: Fee Payment
After submitting the application, you will need to pay the applicable fees online. The fee structure differs based on the type of license.
- Basic Registration: ₹100 per year
- State License: The annual fees vary from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000, depending on the type of food business.
- Central License: ₹7,500 per year
You can pay using a variety of online methods, such as net banking, debit/credit card, or UPI.
Step 7: Track Your Application
Once the application is submitted, you can track the status through the FLRS portal. The FSSAI generally processes applications within a timeframe of 7 to 60 days, depending on the type of license requested and the number of applications they are managing at the time.
Step 8: Inspection and Approval
In some cases, especially for State and Central licenses, a food safety officer may visit your business premises for an inspection. They will verify the information provided and assess compliance with FSSAI regulations. Once the inspection is successfully completed, the license will be granted.
Step 9: Receive Your FSSAI License
Once your application is approved, you will receive your FSSAI license via email or it can be downloaded from the FLRS portal. You will also be provided with an FSSAI logo and license number, which must be displayed on all your food products and business premises.
Renewal of FSSAI License
The FSSAI license is valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on your choice during the application. You must apply for renewal 30 days before the expiration of the license. Failure to renew on time may lead to penalties or legal consequences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect Information: Ensure that all details filled in the application are correct and up to date to avoid rejection or delays.
- Inadequate Documentation: Double-check that all required documents are in place and meet the necessary guidelines.
- Missed Deadlines: Apply for renewal on time to avoid fines and maintain compliance.
Conclusion
Obtaining an FSSAI license online is an essential step in establishing a food business in India. The process has been simplified with the FLRS portal, making it convenient for food business operators to apply for and track their licenses. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your application is processed smoothly and your business remains compliant with food safety regulations.
With your FSSAI license in hand, you can gain consumer trust, expand your business, and ensure that your food products meet the highest safety standards.
