FSSAI License Renewal in India

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex body that regulates food safety in India. An FSSAI License (or registration) is a mandatory approval that every Food Business Operator (FBO) must obtain before starting any food-related operations. This includes:

• Manufacturers
• Processors
• Repackers
• Storage units
• Distributors
• Wholesalers
• Retailers
• Transporters
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Caterers
• Home-based food businesses.

For any food business in India, a valid FSSAI License is not just a document; it's a mark of trust and compliance. Just as you got your initial license, keeping it renewed is crucial to continue operating legally and smoothly. Don't let your business face penalties or closure – understand the FSSAI License renewal process and stay compliant!

Just like the initial FSSAI registration, renewal also depends on your business's scale and turnover:

• FSSAI Basic Registration Renewal: For small businesses with an annual turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakhs. This typically applies to small-scale retailers, hawkers, small home-based food businesses, etc.
• FSSAI State License Renewal: For mid-sized businesses with an annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores, operating within a single state. This covers most restaurants, small to medium-scale manufacturers, and larger retailers.
• FSSAI Central License Renewal: This license is required for large businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores for businesses operating across multiple states. It is suitable for import-export-oriented businesses engaged in large-scale food manufacturing, ensuring they meet the highest standards of compliance.

You must renew the same type of license you currently hold unless there's a significant change in your turnover or operational scope that requires an upgrade.

Think of your FSSAI license as your business's passport to the food industry. If it expires, you lose your right to operate. FSSAI License renewal is critical because:

• Prevents Business Stoppage: An expired license means you cannot legally conduct your food business operations.
• Avoids Penalties: Non-renewal or late FSSAI License renewal attracts significant financial penalties and can lead to legal action.
• Maintains Compliance: It ensures continuous adherence to food safety standards and regulations.
• Saves Time and Effort: Renewing your FSSAI license on time is far easier and more cost-effective than letting it expire and starting the application process all over again. To avoid a late fee of Rs. 100 per day, FSSAI guidelines recommend initiating the renewal process at least 30 days before the license expires.

The entire FSSAI License renewal online process is streamlined through the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

Go to the official FoSCoS website.

Step 2: Log in or Use Direct Renewal Option

• If you have an account: Log in using your existing user ID and password. Once logged in, navigate to the "Renewal" section, typically found on your dashboard or in a menu option like "License/Registration Renewal."
• If you don't want to log in: On the FoSCoS homepage, look for an option like "Apply for Renewal of License/Registration" or "Renewal of License and Registration Fee: Same as new Lic/Reg". Click on this, and then you'll enter your existing FSSAI License/Registration Number, its validity end date, and a captcha code, then click "Submit."

Note: This option is available only in certain cases, typically for basic or state-level licenses where login is not mandatory. For central licenses or more complex renewals, logging in to the FoSCoS portal is required.

Step 3: Select License for Renewal

• After logging in or entering your details directly, the system will display a list of your FSSAI licenses/registrations that are eligible for renewal.
• Important Note: Licenses/Registrations become eligible for renewal and will be listed on the portal typically 120 days before their expiry date. If your license has already expired, it won't be listed for direct renewal, and you might need to apply for a fresh one (with penalties if within 180 days of expiry).
• Select the specific license or registration you wish to renew and click on "Proceed."

Step 4: Fill Application Details (Form A or B)

• The FoSCoS portal will automatically open either Form A (for Basic Registration renewal) or Form B (for State/Central License renewal), pre-populating most of the information from your previous application.
• Review all pre-filled details carefully.
• Editable Sections: You can modify communication details and sometimes certain contact persons.
• Non-editable Sections: Generally, your registered address, premises details, and product categories (for manufacturers) are non-editable in a direct renewal application. If you need to change these, you might need to initiate a separate "modification" application first or apply for a fresh license if the changes are significant.
• Select Validity Period: Choose the number of years you wish to renew your license for (from 1 to 5 years).

Step 5: Upload Documents and Pay Fees

• Upload Required Documents: The system will prompt you to upload the necessary supporting documents. These will vary based on whether you are renewing a Basic Registration, State License, or Central License. Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in the prescribed format.
• Review Fees: The portal will automatically calculate the applicable FSSAI License renewal fee based on the license type, the number of years you selected for renewal, and any applicable late fees (Rs. 100 per day if applying after 90 days but before expiry).
• Make Payment: Proceed to the payment gateway and complete the payment using the available online options (Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, UPI).

Step 6: Generate Receipt

• Upon successful payment, the FoSCoS portal will generate an acknowledgment receipt. This receipt will contain a new 17-digit application reference number.
• Save this receipt and the reference number. You will use this number to track your FSSAI License renewal status later.

Note: For applications submitted 90 days before expiry, only the normal renewal fee is charged. After 90 days, a penalty of Rs. 100/day applies. Connect with an expert today and get help in submitting your application on time.

While the online FoSCoS portal is the preferred and most common method, especially for State and Central licenses, Basic Registration might still have some offline renewal options in specific localities or for those with limited digital access. However, FSSAI is increasingly pushing for online submissions.

Step 1: Obtain Application Form

Download Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State/Central License) from the FSSAI website or obtain it from the local FSSAI office.

Step 2: Fill and Attach Documents

Fill out the form accurately and attach all required documents as per the type of license you are renewing.

Step 3: Submit Application and Fees

Submit the filled form along with the documents and the applicable FSSAI License renewal fee at the designated FSSAI regional office or the State Food Safety Commissioner's office.

Step 4: Verification and Inspection

The authorities will verify your application and documents. They might inspect your food premises to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Step 5: Issuance of License

Upon successful verification and satisfaction of all requirements, your renewed FSSAI license will be issued.

The documents needed for FSSAI License renewal vary slightly based on the type of registration or license.

Understanding the FSSAI License renewal fee structure is crucial to avoid surprises. The renewal fees are generally the same as the fresh application fees.

Ignoring FSSAI License renewal can have severe repercussions for your food business.

1. Legal Action and Fines

Operating with an expired FSSAI license is illegal. Food safety officers can initiate legal proceedings, impose heavy fines, and even shut down your business premises.

2. Impact on Business

• Loss of Trust: Consumers and business partners will lose trust in your brand if your license is not valid.
• Operational Halt: You will be forced to stop all food-related operations, leading to significant revenue loss.
• Difficulty in Expansion: Without a valid license, you cannot list on online food delivery platforms or expand your business.
• Reputational Damage: News of non-compliance can severely damage your brand image and customer base.

You can easily check your FSSAI License renewal status online:

1. Visit the FoSCoS Portal: Go to foscos.fssai.gov.in.
2. Click on "Track Application": You'll find this option on the homepage.
3. Enter Reference Number: Input the 17-digit application reference number generated after you submitted your renewal application.
4. View Status: The portal will display the current status of your application, such as "Processing yet to be started," "Application under scrutiny," "Application reverted for modification," or "License Issued."

If your application is rejected, ensure you address the issues and resubmit within 30 days to avoid rejection.