The need for a hygienic and safe food habit is the need of the hour with the cases of illness all around. The amount of cases of unhealthy means of food, and other unethical practices has been a rising concern among the people. In times like these having an FSSAI food license is of utmost importance as it provides a guarantee of safety and standard regulations. 

There are many who do not know how to apply for an FSSAI License registration. It thus becomes important to address the issue to help solve problems. It will help in understanding the problems related to the safety and standard regulations of the food we consume. A complete guideline to an FSSAI License registration will be of utmost help.

What is an FSSAI License Registration?

FSSAI License Registration is a process where the businesses dealing in food products have to procure a Safety and Standard Certificate to conduct their business.

This certificate is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to businesses. It can only be issued if the business complies with the rules and regulations of the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS).

There are very strict rules under which an FSSAI license is issued as it deals with the food for the consumption of human beings.

It helps regulate the production, processing, storage, and distribution of food products.

Category of FSSAI Licenses

Different types of FSSAI License exist for the businesses based on the structure and size of their operations. The three main categories are the Basic license which is applied by small sellers who have limited sales per day. There is a State license for businesses operating within the state and have business operations larger than small-scale businesses. And then there is the Central License which is for business on PAN India presence and has a business operation spread all over India. 

The licenses are distinguished by the revenue they generate annually. The BAsic license is issued for businesses with less than 12 lakhs. A state license is issued for businesses with revenue of 12 lakhs to 20 crores and the central license is for businesses with a revenue of more than 20 crores. 

What is the process of FSSAI License registration?

The registration for Registration of an FSSAI license is easy but done under strict observations. For the registration one can do the following:

  • They will have to fill the application form and make the necessary payment. 
  • After the payment process, the individual will be contacted by the FSSAI Registration expert to make the necessary arrangement for the process.
  • They will be required to upload all the required documents to proceed ahead.
  • After the document is uploaded to the concerned authorities necessary actions will be taken
  • Their application will be reviewed and an inspection is carried out for the registration process. 
  • If the Inspection officer is satisfied with the guidelines and compliance is maintained an FSSAI License will be issued online in a short period of time. A physical copy of the certificate will also be sent. 

Documents Required

For the registration of an FSSAI License one needs to procure various documents in order to proceed with the application. Some of the important documents are:

  • Proof of Identity for the owners
  • Proof of Address
  • Proof of Business Owners and Stakeholders
  • Contact Details 
  • Food Safety Management System (FSMS plan)
  • Documents for verified property
  • No Objection Certificate from local authorities
  • Structural plans 
  • ISI certifications

What happens when there is Non-Compliance?

There are cases when people try to cut costs and end up not complying with the rules and regulations under the FSS Act, 2006. In instances like these, the person is penalized and made to pay a hefty penalty. It is thus important for the Authorities to keep a strong check on the occurrences of non-compliance. 

Some of the Penalties imposed on the businesses for the Non-Compliance are:

  • For the Food Quality Non-Compliance
  • In case of Sub-Standard quality of Food
  • When there is Misbranding of Food
  • In cases of Misleading through Branding
  • When the person does not comply with authorities
  • For cases of Unhygienic manufacturing and processing

Conclusion

The FSSAI License registration process holds an important place in society today as each and every food is strictly monitored. When there is the monitoring of the food it is assured of good quality products. To proceed with the registration process one needs to have prior knowledge of the various registration processes and thus proceed accordingly.