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FSSAI Central License

Apply for FSSAI central license with RegisterKaro. Know Process, Central FSSAI License fees, documents required and more details.

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FSSAI Central License

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) stands as a paramount government agency dedicated to the holistic well-being of the masses through the rigorous implementation of pertinent food safety standards. At its core, FSSAI’s mission revolves around the formulation of comprehensive guidelines and norms designed to cultivate a culture of heightened food safety awareness throughout India. Vigilantly overseeing every facet of the food supply chain, from production to retail, this institution plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health. A significant milestone within the regulatory landscape is the FSSAI Central License, a coveted accreditation obtained by Food Business Operators (FBOs) with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 Crores or those engaged in the import and export of food products within India. This accreditation underscores a commitment to the highest standards of food safety and places FBOs under the purview of stringent regulatory oversight, ensuring the integrity of the nation’s food supply and fortifying the health and well-being of its citizens.

Central to FSSAI’s mandate is the cultivation of consumer awareness, a facet of its work that it approaches with utmost seriousness. Regularly initiating diverse initiatives, FSSAI remains committed to keeping the public informed about the perils associated with substandard and low-quality foods. In alignment with the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, FSSAI meticulously crafts food safety norms and various guidelines, providing a robust regulatory framework for the food industry.

FSSAI Central License

FSSAI Central License

Fundamental Duties and Functions performed by FSSAI

Formulating Guidelines and Norms for Food Safety and Hygiene:Meticulously crafting comprehensive guidelines and norms to establish benchmarks for food safety practices and hygiene standards. Ensuring a robust regulatory framework that prevents and mitigates risks associated with unsafe food practices.

Launching Initiatives Nationwide for Food Safety Awareness:Spearheading nationwide initiatives to educate and sensitize the masses about the critical importance of adhering to food safety norms. Fostering a pervasive culture of awareness to empower individuals and communities to make informed choices for enhanced public health.

Granting Mandatory Food License and Registration to Food Business Operators:Issuing mandatory food licenses and registrations to food business operators (FBOs) engaged in the production, distribution, and sale of food. Reinforcing accountability and compliance within the food industry to guarantee the quality and safety of food products in the market.

Facilitating Recommendations to GOI for New Policies:Functioning as an advisory body to facilitate recommendations to the Government of India (GOI) for the formulation of new policies related to food safety and standards. Engaging in continuous research and collaboration to propose innovative measures responsive to the evolving landscape of the food industry.

Rolling Out Directions and Guidelines in View of FSS Act, 2006:Disseminating directives and guidelines in adherence to the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006. Providing a compass for entities within the food sector, outlining requisite standards and protocols to ensure compliance with the legislative framework.

Taking Legal Actions Against Illicit Practices:Vigilantly taking legal actions against food businesses allegedly involved in illicit practices such as food adulteration. Operating within a stringent legal framework to uphold the integrity of the food supply chain and safeguard the interests of consumers.

Fundamental Duties and Functions performed by FSSAI

In summary, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, through its multifaceted duties and functions, emerges as a stalwart guardian of public health and safety, actively shaping and regulating the landscape of the nation’s food industry to ensure the well-being of its citizens.

Businesses Requiring Mandatory FSSAI License

  • ulArrowRestaurants
  • ulArrowE-Commerce Businesses (e.g., Online Home Kitchens)
  • ulArrowBusinesses Selling Essential Food Products
  • ulArrowFood Business Operators of the Indian Railways
  • ulArrowBusinesses Selling Coffee or Coffee-Based Products
  • ulArrowManufacturers of Powdered Tea
  • ulArrowFood Vending Machines
  • ulArrowBusinesses Selling Herbalife-Based Products
  • ulArrowFood Business Operators Involved in Importing or Exporting Food Products
  • ulArrowFood Business Operators of the Indian Airports
  • ulArrowFood Marketing Companies
  • ulArrowBusinesses Exporting Cashews
  • ulArrowAmazon Warehouses
  • ulArrowHotels
  • ulArrowSupermarkets
  • ulArrowE-Commerce Businesses Selling Prepared Food Online (e.g., Zomato, Swiggy, Uber Eats, etc.)
  • ulArrowE-Commerce Businesses Selling Food Products Online
  • ulArrowOnline Businesses Selling Packaged Commodities (e.g., Flipkart, Amazon, etc.)
  • ulArrowCatering Businesses
  • ulArrowEvent Management Businesses
  • ulArrowColleges and Institutions with Canteens
  • ulArrowBusinesses Involved in Retail, Export, or Import of Fisheries
  • ulArrowAgricultural Product Businesses
  • ulArrowManufacturers of Packaged Products
  • ulArrowManufacturers of Various Types of Oil
  • ulArrowFood Outlets
  • ulArrowHospitals
  • ulArrowManufacturers of Packaged Drinking Water
  • ulArrowBusinesses Involved in Retail, Export, or Import of Dairy Products
  • ulArrowManufacturers of Chocolate and Chocolate-Based Products
  • ulArrowFood Transporters
  • ulArrowRe-Packagers
  • ulArrowMilk Chilling Units
  • ulArrowAll Types of Food Business Operators

These businesses are obligated to obtain the FSSAI license to ensure compliance with food safety and standards regulations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the quality and safety of food products in diverse sectors.Top of Form

Advantages of Acquiring an FSSAI Central License

The following are the advantages of getting FSSAI Central License:

Advantages of Acquiring an FSSAI Central License

1: Global Recognition:The FSSAI Central License establishes a worldwide identity for businesses, contributing to the creation of a brand name on a global scale.

2: Facilitates Business Expansion:

With the FSSAI Central License in place, expanding the food business to new locations and opening additional outlets becomes a streamlined process.

It enhances the ease of obtaining loans or securing funding for the overall development and growth of the business.

3: Legal Assurance:

The FSSAI License provides a sense of security and legal standing for all stakeholders involved in the food business.

It serves as tangible evidence that the quality and safety of the food meet established standards, instilling confidence in both consumers and regulatory authorities.

4: Enhances Consumer Awareness:

In an era where consumers are increasingly vigilant about the quality of the food they consume, possessing an FSSAI License provides a significant advantage.

The license not only assures consumers of adherence to safety standards but also positions the business favorably in the eyes of a discerning and expanding consumer base.

Requirements for Obtaining FSSAI Central License

The FSSAI Central License, a crucial legal authorization granted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), is available to food businesses meeting specific criteria:

Mandatory Criteria:

  • ulArrowAnnual turnover exceeding Rs 20 crores, or
  • ulArrowOperations spanning multiple states, or
  • ulArrowMonthly or annual production surpassing the prescribed threshold limit.

Special Conditions for Application:

  • ulArrowInitiating a business in Nutraceuticals and Health Supplements.
  • ulArrowEngaged in transportation with a fleet of more than 100 vehicles.
  • ulArrowOperating a hotel with a 5-star or 7-star rating.

Additional Criteria for FSSAI Central License Include:

  • ulArrowDairy facilities producing milk solids with an annual production of 50,000 liters or 2,500 megatons.
  • ulArrowProcessing facilities involved in vegetable oil production with a daily volume of 2 MT.
  • ulArrowSlaughter facilities with a daily capacity of:
  • ulArrow50 large animals,
  • ulArrow150 small animals,
  • ulArrow1,000 poultry birds.
  • ulArrowMeat processing facilities with a daily production capacity of 50 KG or 150 megatons.
  • ulArrowFood processing facilities with a daily production volume of 2 megatons.
  • ulArrowFood businesses engaged in shipping food articles abroad.
  • ulArrowFacilities with refrigeration or cold storage having a storage capacity of 1,000 megatons or more.
  • ulArrowWholesalers in the food business with an annual turnover exceeding Rs 30 crores.
  • ulArrowRetailers and distributors of food articles with an annual turnover exceeding Rs 20 crores.
  • ulArrowCatering services or food marketing businesses with a yearly turnover exceeding Rs 20 crores.
  • ulArrowRestaurants and eating houses with an annual turnover of INR 20 Crore.
  • ulArrowFood catering services operating in government-based agencies, including seaports, airports, etc.

Adhering to these comprehensive criteria ensures that businesses obtain the FSSAI Central License, emphasizing compliance with food safety standards and regulatory measures.

Required Documents for Obtaining FSSAI Central License

Ensuring a smooth application process for the FSSAI Central License necessitates the submission of essential documents. Here is a comprehensive list

Form B

  • ulArrowDuly filled and signed by the applicant.

Floor Plan

  • ulArrowLayout of the production or processing facility, detailing critical areas with accurate measurements.

Key Management Personnel (for Companies)

  • ulArrowComplete list with names and residential proofs if seeking registration for a company.
  • ulArrowCopy of MOA (Memorandum of Association), AOA (Articles of Association), and COI (Certificate of Incorporation) for private limited companies, OPCs (One Person Companies), and public limited companies.

Partnership Deed (for Partnership Firms)

  • ulArrowList of partners with names, contact details, addresses, etc.
  • ulArrowCopy of the partnership deed.

Co-operative Society Information

  • ulArrowList of serving members in a co-operative society.
  • ulArrowRegistered Trust Information:
  • ulArrowCopy of the trust deed.
  • ulArrowRecord of trustees.

Registered Trust Information

  • ulArrowCopy of the trust deed.

Address Proof for Business Place

  • ulArrowUtility bills (electricity bill, rent agreement, registry).

Food Safety Management Plan (FSMS)

  • ulArrowImplementation details or an equivalent protocol.

List of Machines

  • ulArrowNames and details of machines present at the plant.

Raw Material Suppliers

  • ulArrowList of active raw material suppliers.

No Objection Certificate from Local Authorities

  • ulArrowConfirmation from local authorities.

Tourism Certificate (for Hotels)

  • ulArrowIssued by the Ministry of Tourism.

IEC Certificate (for Export)

  • ulArrowIssued by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).

Import Export Code (for Import/Export)

  • ulArrowRelevant code in the case of import/export activities.

Declaration for Turnover Above Rs. 20 Crores

  • ulArrowRequired in case the annual turnover exceeds Rs. 20 crores.
  • ulArrowEnsuring the completeness and accuracy of these documents is vital for a successful application for the FSSAI Central License.Top of Form
Required Documents for Obtaining FSSAI Central License

Procedures for Obtaining FSSAI Central License

In summary, securing a BIS Certificate offers a myriad of benefits, including:

1: Application Filing Via Form B

Initiate the process by submitting Form B to the licensing authority. It is crucial to adhere to the basic turnover criteria during the application filing.

2: Applicant Scrutiny by FSSAI Officials

The submitted application, along with the required documents, undergoes meticulous scrutiny by FSSAI officials. This step ensures the completeness and accuracy of the provided information.

3: On-Site Inspection by FSSAI’s Officials of the Business Place

FSSAI conducts an on-site inspection of the business place. Designated officials evaluate the level of compliance with FSSAI regulations. Non-compliance may jeopardize the application status.

4: Approval of Application and Grant of the License

Upon approval by the licensing authority, the application proceeds to the next stage. The central FSSAI license is granted, and the certificate is issued to the licensee. The entire process typically takes a few days.

5: Commencement of Business Operations

With the obtained FSSAI Central License, the business owner is authorized to commence full-scale operations. This certification validates the business’s compliance with food safety standards and allows for seamless participation in the food industry

Validity and Renewal of FSSAI Central License

The following are the advantages of getting FSSAI Central License:

Validity and Renewal of FSSAI Central License

1: Validity Duration:The Central FSSAI license offers a flexible validity ranging from 1 to 5 years. The associated cost increases in alignment with the chosen validity period.

2 Renewal Process:For seamless continuity, the FSSAI Central License must be renewed before the expiration date, ideally within 30 days. Failure to renew within this timeframe may result in penalties.

3: Renewal Requirements:

  • The renewal process mirrors the initial application, requiring the submission of specific documents.
  • Passport-size photograph
  • ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.)
  • PAN Card
  • Address proof (telephone bills, electricity bills, etc.)
  • Copy of the Land Deed or Agreement as proof of ownership
  • For rented premises, submission of the rental agreement copy and a No Objection Certificate from the Landlord is mandatory.
  • 4: Renewal Application Procedure:Initiating the renewal process is akin to applying for a new license. The applicant can efficiently file for renewal by submitting the necessary documentation online.

    Ensuring timely renewal is not only a regulatory requirement but also a strategic measure to maintain continuous compliance with food safety standards.

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    FAQs

    What is the FSSAI Central License, and who needs to obtain it?

    The FSSAI Central License is a mandatory license issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It is required for businesses involved in food manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, and wholesale with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores.

    How long is the FSSAI Central License valid, and how can it be renewed?

    The FSSAI Central License is typically issued for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years. To renew the license, businesses must submit the necessary documents and fees to the FSSAI before the expiration date.

    What are the key activities covered under the FSSAI Central License?

    The license covers a broad spectrum of food-related activities, including manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, and wholesale. It ensures that businesses at various stages of the food supply chain adhere to prescribed standards.

    What are the compliance requirements for obtaining an FSSAI Central License?

    Businesses must comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Hygienic Practices (GHP), and implement a Food Safety Management System (FSMS). Adherence to these standards is crucial for obtaining and maintaining the license.

    How does the FSSAI Central License contribute to food safety and quality control?

    The license mandates regular inspections, audits, and quality control measures to ensure that food products meet the specified standards. It also requires the implementation of traceability systems for quick recall in case of safety concerns.

    Is the FSSAI Central License applicable to all businesses in the food industry?

    No, the FSSAI Central License is specifically applicable to businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores. Smaller businesses may need to obtain the FSSAI State License or the Basic Registration, depending on their scale of operations.

    What are the consequences of not obtaining or renewing the FSSAI Central License?

    Non-compliance with the FSSAI regulations, including failure to obtain or renew the FSSAI Central License, can result in severe penalties, including fines and closure of the business. It is essential for businesses to adhere to the regulatory requirements to avoid legal complications.

    How does having an FSSAI Central License benefit businesses in the food industry?

    Holding an FSSAI Central License enhances consumer confidence, facilitates market access and expansion, ensures legal compliance, and is often a prerequisite for international trade. It serves as a mark of credibility and reliability in the food industry.

    What role does labeling play in FSSAI Central License compliance?

    The license mandates strict adherence to labeling requirements, including providing accurate information about ingredients, nutritional content, allergens, and other essential details on the food packaging. Clear and comprehensive labeling contributes to informed consumer choices.

    Can businesses engaged in food export benefit from the FSSAI Central License?

    Yes, businesses involved in the export of food products can benefit from the FSSAI Central License, as it enhances the acceptability of Indian food products in the global market. It demonstrates compliance with international standards and regulations.