FSSAI Annual Returns: Filing Process and Compliance Guide

Introduction

Food safety is a crucial aspect of any food business. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates that all eligible food business operators (FBOs) file FSSAI annual returns to maintain compliance. These returns provide details about the business’s food production, procurement, and sales over the financial year.

Failure to file FSSAI annual returns on time can result in penalties, legal consequences, and business disruptions. In this guide, we will walk you through the FSSAI annual return filing process, required documents, deadlines, fees, and compliance requirements to help you avoid any issues.

What Are FSSAI Annual Returns?

FSSAI annual returns are mandatory reports that food manufacturers, processors, and importers must submit each year. These returns provide details about the type of food products handled, the quantity produced or imported, and turnover data.

There are two primary types of FSSAI annual returns:

1. Form D1 – Mandatory for all food manufacturers, including dairy and meat processors.
2. Form D2 – Specifically required for manufacturers of milk and dairy products.

Filing these returns ensures regulatory compliance and helps FSSAI monitor the safety and standards of food businesses across India.

Who Needs to File FSSAI Annual Returns?

FSSAI annual returns must be filed by food businesses that hold an FSSAI State or Central License. This includes:

1. Food Manufacturers (Including dairy, meat, and seafood processors)
2. Food Importers (Businesses importing food products into India)
3. Retailers & Wholesalers (Engaged in large-scale food distribution)
4. Food Storage & Warehouse Units (Handling bulk food storage)
5. Restaurants, Caterers & Cloud Kitchens (Only those with Central/State Licenses)
6. E-commerce Food Businesses (Selling food online)

Exemptions: Small businesses and petty food manufacturers registered under the FSSAI Basic Registration category do not need to file annual returns.

Types of Annual Returns Under FSSAI

1. Form D1 (Annual Return for All FBOs)

Applicable to:

• All food manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and importers
• Submission: By May 31 of every financial year
• Information Required:
  • Name & address of the food business
  • Type of food products handled
  • Total quantity and value of food products manufactured or imported
  • Details of food categories exported (if applicable)

2. Form D2 (Half-Yearly Return for Dairy Businesses)

Applicable to:

• Manufacturers handling milk and dairy products
• Submission: Every six months (by May 31 and November 30)
• Information Required:
  • Quantity of milk and milk products produced
  • Details of raw materials procured and utilized

Documents Required for FSSAI Annual Return Filing

To file FSSAI annual returns, you need the following documents:

1. FSSAI License Copy (State or Central License)
2. Business Registration Certificate (GST Certificate, Partnership Deed, etc.)
3. Details of Food Products (Manufactured, imported, or sold)
4. Invoices & Sales Data (To report the quantity and value of food transactions)
5. Export/Import Data (For businesses involved in cross-border food trade)

Step-by-Step Process to File FSSAI Annual Returns Online

Step 1: Visit the FSSAI Portal

Go to the official FoSCoS portal (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in).

Step 2: Log in to Your Account

Use your FSSAI license number and password to log into the system.

Step 3: Choose the Appropriate Form

• Select Form D1 for general FBOs
• Select Form D2 for dairy businesses

Step 4: Enter Business & Transaction Details

• Fill in product details, quantities, and sales turnover.
• Provide information about raw materials used.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

Attach invoices, FSSAI license copies, and business transaction reports.

Step 6: Review & Submit the Return

Verify all details before submitting the return electronically.

Step 7: Receive Confirmation

After successful submission, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt from FSSAI.

Due Date and Penalty for Late Filing of FSSAI Returns

• Due Date: May 31 of each financial year
• Penalty for Late Filing: ₹100 per day after the due date

Failure to submit returns may also result in license suspension or cancellation.

Benefits of Filing FSSAI Annual Returns on Time

1. Legal Compliance – Avoid penalties and legal action.
2. Smooth Business Operations – Ensures uninterrupted food trade.
3. Business Credibility – Boosts customer trust and brand value.
4. Avoiding License Suspension – Non-compliance may lead to license cancellation.
5. Transparency & Accountability – Enhances food safety monitoring.

Common Errors to Avoid While Filing FSSAI Returns

1. Late Submission – File returns before May 31 to avoid penalties.
2. Incorrect Business Details – Ensure accurate product and turnover information.
3. Failure to Attach Supporting Documents – Missing invoices may lead to rejection.
4. Choosing the Wrong Form – File Form D1 or D2 based on your business type.
5. Ignoring Acknowledgment Receipts – Always save the confirmation receipt after submission.

Conclusion

Filing FSSAI annual returns is an essential compliance requirement for food businesses in India. Timely submission ensures regulatory adherence, prevents penalties, and strengthens business credibility. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, you can easily complete your annual return filing online.

Failing to comply with FSSAI annual return filing requirements can lead to severe legal consequences, including hefty fines and potential license suspension. Moreover, regular compliance demonstrates a commitment to food safety standards, enhancing your business reputation and customer trust. Proper documentation and timely submissions also facilitate smooth business operations, preventing unnecessary disruptions due to regulatory actions.

For a seamless and error-free FSSAI annual return filing experience, consider consulting RegisterKaro, a trusted platform for food business compliance services. RegisterKaro offers expert assistance, ensuring that all your filings are accurate, complete, and submitted on time. Their team of professionals is well-versed in FSSAI regulations and can provide valuable guidance to keep your food business compliant and thriving in a highly regulated industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is required to file FSSAI annual returns?
   All FBOs with an FSSAI State or Central License must file annual returns.
   
2. What is the deadline for FSSAI annual return filing?
   The last date to file FSSAI annual returns is May 31 of every financial year.
   
3. What happens if I don’t file FSSAI annual returns?
   A penalty of ₹100 per day is imposed for late filing. Repeated non-compliance may lead to license suspension.
   
4. Can I file FSSAI annual returns offline?
   Yes, FSSAI annual returns can be filed offline by submitting Form D1/D2 to the respective FSSAI authority.
   
5. Is FSSAI return filing mandatory for small businesses?
   No, only businesses with an FSSAI State or Central License need to file annual returns. Small businesses with Basic Registration are exempt.