Applicabilities for FSSAI Registration: Each and Everything

Introduction 

India is known for their diverse culture and food where the food industry is expected to grow rapidly at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2024 to 2028. In this rapid growth consumers’ health matters a lot. Here, FSSAI (Food Safety and Standard Authority of India) regulated the food safety and quality across the food sectors. Whether you are a small retailer or large-scale manufacturing and engaged in food-related business mandates to obtain FSSAI license to operate the business. FSSAI registration aims to prevent risks associated with food handling and distribution and also save consumers from several hazardous health illnesses. In this blog we will cover the applicability for FSSAI Registration, its types, key categories and factors of applicability. If you are also engaged in food-related business and confused regarding the applicability this writing will help you to get over this confusion. 

Who Needs FSSAI Registration? 

FSSAI Registration is mandatory for the entity or individual engaged in food related business, whether directly or indirectly. These below mentioned categories must obtain FSSAI License: 

1. Food Manufactures : Every type of food manufacturer whether it is a small-scale producer or large-scale company or producing supplements or beverages, have to register themselves for the FSSAI Certificate.
   
   
   
2. Retailers and Wholesalers : FSSAI registration is required for grocery stores, supermarkets, and wholesalers that handle food products.
   
   
3. Distributors and Transporters : Any Mediator and logistics providers transporting, storing or distributing food related items come under the FSSAI Regulations.
   
   
4. Food Repacker and Relabelers : Any business engaged in repackaging or relabelling food products must obtain FSSAI approval because these products are directly consumed by the consumers.
   
   
5. E-commerce or Online Food Operators : If any food related business uses an online or e-commerce platform to sell or reach the consumers, also has to get FSSAI License.
   
   
6. Caterers and Food Services : Hotels, Catering, and Restaurants business also required an FSSAI License because these all are engaged in preparing, storing, and serving food to customers.
   
   
7. Importers and Exporters : Any food-related business that wants to expand their business and images in importing and exporting food and related items must obtain an FSSAI License to meet both international and domestic food safety and quality standards. 

Types of FSSAI License and Registration 

There are three types of Fssai registration, which are based on the annual Turnover and food production of the business, which are given below:- 

1) FSSAI Basic Registration: 

Basic FSSAI Registration is mandatory for All Food Business Operators (FBOs) whose annual Turnover is below ₹ 12 lakh. This is mainly for hawkers, petty retailers, temporary stall holders, roaming vendors, and tiny food operators.

2) FSSAI State License:- 

This is mandatory for the food business whose annual Turnover is above ₹12 lakh but below ₹ 20 crore. Turnover is the same for a State manufacturing license, or State Trading License. This license is valid for up to 5 years. 

3) FSSAI Central License:-

All food business operators whose annual Turnover is above ₹ 20 crore must apply for the central FSSAI registration. In some instances, irrespective of the turnover, Central FSSAI is mandatory e.g. E-Commerce operators, Import food items, airport shops, etc. The central government issues this Fssai license, which is valid for up to 5 years. 

Factors Determining the Applicability of FSSAI Registration 

Here is some factors mentioned below that determines the applicability of FSSAI Registration: 

1. Scale of Operation: Business registrations are required for smaller businesses with limited turnover, while licenses are required for large operations.
   
   
2. Nature of the business: There are different requirements for different types of food businesses. Compared to small retailers, manufacturers and distributors must undergo additional safety checks.
   
   
3. Location and Scope: If any business operates in several states have to get central fssai license, whereas single location or state food business operator can go for basic or state FSSAI license as according to the annual turnover.
   
   
4. Turnover Threshold: FSSAI license category distinguishes between small-scaled, medium-scaled and large-scaled therefore its annual turnover may impact the types of the License requirements.
   
   
5. Food Category: Some particular food items such as meat and dairy products may have additional regulatory needs, often obtaining state or central license for further compliances. 

Conclusion 

From street food vendors to multinational food chains, all food-related businesses in India must be registered with the FSSAI. Its goal goes beyond compliance, establishing a culture of safety and accountability in the food industry. The FSSAI registration or license helps businesses build trust with consumers, facilitate growth, and prevent food safety-related legal issues. To align with regulatory expectations and safeguard public health, businesses must stay up-to-date on compliance as the FSSAI continuously evolves to meet international standards. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1) Can an FSSAI License be renewed after expiry?

Yes, an FSSAI license can be, as it has a validity of 1 to 5 years. 

2) What is the Late fee for a non-renewable FSSAI License? 

The FSSAI renewal application must be filed at least 30 days before the expiry date. Food Business Operators (FBOs) need to pay a late fee of ₹100 per day for every day of delay.

3) Is it possible to start an import food product without an FSSAI license?

No, In India to import any food product you must obtain an FSSAI license as it is illegal to import food items without an FSSAI certificate. Importers must obtain the necessary license and comply with all regulatory requirements to avoid penalties and legal consequences.

4) How much time does it take for an FSSAI license to Import the food business?

An FSSAI license application process time depends on the completeness of the documents submitted and which type of license applied for. Normally. It will take some weeks to a couple of months to obtain an FSSAI license.