About FSSAI and Food Safety Compliance
The **Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)** is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It is responsible for protecting and promoting public health through the regulation and supervision of **food safety** and standards.
Obtaining an **FSSAI License or Registration** is mandatory for all **Food Business Operators (FBOs)** in India involved in manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products. This process is primarily managed through the **FoSCoS portal**.
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Types of FSSAI Registration & Licenses (Eligibility Criteria)
1. FSSAI Basic Registration (Form A)
- **Eligibility:** Annual Turnover up to **₹12 Lakh**.
- **For:** Petty retailers, small vendors, temporary stall holders, home-based FBOs with low capacity (e.g., small bakeries, home kitchens).
- **Jurisdiction:** Local Authorities/State.
- **Approx. Fee:** **₹100** per year.
2. FSSAI State License (Form B)
- **Eligibility:** Annual Turnover between **₹12 Lakh** and **₹20 Crore**.
- **For:** Medium-sized manufacturers, storage units, distributors, and large restaurants operating in a single state.
- **Jurisdiction:** State Licensing Authority.
- **Approx. Fee:** ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (varies by business type).
3. FSSAI Central License (Form B)
- **Eligibility:** Annual Turnover above **₹20 Crore** (or **₹30 Crore** for transportation/wholesalers).
- **For:** Importers/Exporters, FBOs operating in two or more states, Central Government agencies, and large manufacturers (e.g., production capacity > 2MT per day).
- **Jurisdiction:** Central Licensing Authority.
- **Approx. Fee:** **₹7,500** per year.
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Step-by-Step FSSAI Registration Process Online
- **Determine Eligibility:** Use the criteria above to decide on **Basic Registration, State License, or Central License**.
- **Gather Documents:** Collect all necessary KYC, business, and premises documents.
- **Fill Application:** Complete **Form A** (for Basic) or **Form B** (for State/Central) with accurate details.
- **Upload & Pay:** Upload scanned documents and pay the requisite application fee.
- **Review & Approval:** The application is reviewed by FSSAI officials. A license/registration certificate is issued upon approval, typically within 7-60 days.
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Key Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
While specific requirements vary by license type (Basic, State, Central), the following are generally needed:
- Passport-sized photograph of the applicant.
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card).
- Proof of possession of premises (Rent Agreement, Electricity Bill, Sale Deed).
- Partnership Deed / Certificate of Incorporation / MOA / AOA (as applicable).
- List of food categories/products proposed to be manufactured/handled.
- For Licenses (State/Central): Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan, layout plan of the unit, and Water Testing Report.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about FSSAI
What is the validity period of an FSSAI License/Registration?
The license/registration can be issued for a period of **1 year up to 5 years**. The Food Business Operator (FBO) must renew it before its expiration.
What is the penalty for operating without an FSSAI License?
Operating a food business without a proper FSSAI license is an offense. The penalty can include a fine of up to **₹5 lakh** and/or imprisonment.
What is FoSCoS?
**FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System)** is the official online portal introduced by FSSAI for all licensing, registration, and compliance-related activities. All applications must be submitted through this system.
Can I upgrade my FSSAI Basic Registration to a State License?
Yes. If your business turnover exceeds ₹12 Lakh or if your operational capacity increases beyond the Basic Registration limits, you are legally required to **upgrade** to the appropriate State or Central License category via the FoSCoS portal.