Introduction
If you are operating in the food industry or planning to start a food-related venture in India, obtaining an FSSAI license should be on top of your to-do list.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the regulatory body that oversees food safety in the country, and obtaining an FSSAI license is mandatory for all food business operators (FBOs). In this article, we will walk you through the detailed steps for FSSAI registration online, including information about the FSSAI certificate cost, how to download your FSSAI license and more.
FSSAI Registration: The Why and How
The FSSAI food license is not just a legal requirement, it is also a mark of assurance for your customers. It tells them that your food business follows all the necessary food safety standards, which can boost your reputation and customer trust.
The process of getting an FSSAI license starts with FSSAI basic registration, which is ideal for small businesses or startups that have an annual turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakhs. As your business grows, you can upgrade to a state or central license.
Securing an FSSAI License: A Step-by-Step Guide
To help you navigate the process of obtaining an FSSAI license for your food business, we have compiled a detailed step-by-step guide below.
For example, consider a hypothetical food manufacturing business based in Delhi.
Determine the Type of FSSAI Registration Needed
Firstly, the company will need to determine the type of FSSAI license required. Since they have an annual turnover of more than Rs. 12 lakhs but less than Rs. 20 crores and operate only within the state of Delhi, they would need a state license.
Start the Online FSSAI Registration Process
The owner of the company would then visit the official FSSAI website and initiate the FSSAI new registration process. They would fill out the application, providing accurate details about their business, such as its size, location, type of food products they manufacture, etc.
Provide Required Documentation
They would need to upload documents such as ID proof, address proof and details of their food manufacturing facility. This might include the layout of the facility, a list of food categories to be manufactured, the source of raw materials, etc.
Pay the FSSAI Certificate Cost
Given that it needs a state license, the cost for the company would be Rs. 2000 per year, which can be paid online through the portal.
Wait for the Application Review
Once the application is submitted, it would be reviewed by the authorities. This process can take up to 60 days. If there are no issues, the company would receive their FSSAI license number.
Download the FSSAI License
After the application is approved, the company can log back into the FSSAI portal, navigate to the 'License/Certificate' section, select the 'Download' option and download their license in PDF format.
Display the FSSAI License
Finally, the company is required to print the license and display it prominently at their place of business. This serves as an assurance to their customers and clients about their adherence to food safety standards.
Renewal of FSSAI License
The company would need to remember to apply for renewal of its license 30 days before its expiry, ensuring the business operates without interruptions.
By following these steps, the company can secure its FSSAI license and operate its food business with legal compliance and a heightened reputation among consumers. Similarly, any food business, be it a restaurant, catering business or food processing unit, can follow this procedure and obtain its FSSAI license. Remember, food safety is as essential to your food business as the taste and quality of your products.
Starting Your FSSAI Registration Online
To begin your FSSAI registration online, visit the official FSSAI website. Here, you can fill out the online application, which requires details about your business, such as its location, size, type of food products you handle, etc.
First-time applicants should opt for FSSAI new registration. Follow the instructions on the site carefully and make sure to provide accurate information. You will be asked to upload scanned copies of documents, such as your ID proof, address proof and details of your business setup.
FSSAI Certificate Cost
The cost of the FSSAI certificate varies depending on the type of license you are applying for. For FSSAI basic registration, the fee is Rs. 100 per year. The state license costs Rs. 2000 for manufacturing units and Rs. 5000 for food businesses. The central permit costs Rs. 7500 per year. It is important to note that these are government fees, and they can change occasionally.
Receiving and Downloading Your FSSAI License
After submitting the application, it will go through a review process. Once approved, you will receive an FSSAI license number, which should be displayed at your place of business.
To download your FSSAI license, log into your account on the FSSAI portal. Navigate to the 'License/Certificate' section and select the 'Download' option. Your license will be downloaded in PDF format, which you can print and display at your business premises.
The Importance of Renewing Your FSSAI License
FSSAI licenses are not perpetual and must be renewed occasionally. Usually, an FSSAI license is valid for 1–5 years, depending on the duration chosen by the FBO during the application process. You can apply for renewal 30 days before the expiry of the current license.
Conclusion
Securing an FSSAI license for your food business is a significant step towards building a compliant, reliable and trusted food operation in India. This process ensures adherence to the stipulated food safety regulations and elevates your business's credibility among your customers. Now that you understand the process of FSSAI registration, the associated costs, and the steps for downloading and renewing your license, you are equipped to navigate the path of FSSAI licensing with confidence.
However, as you embark on this journey, you might encounter financial hurdles, especially while setting up a new business or expanding an existing one. Fortunately, financial institutions such as Tata Capital can make this journey smoother by offering business loans tailored to your requirements. With attractive interest rates for business loan, minimal paperwork and quick processing, Tata Capital's business loan can help you cover the costs of starting your food business, including FSSAI registration and compliance costs.
A food business is not just about cooking delicious dishes but also about serving your customers safely and responsibly. Getting an FSSAI license and maintaining it is part of that responsibility. Don't wait any longer, get your FSSAI license, and make a substantial difference in India's flourishing food sector!
30 June 2023
6 mins read
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