FSSAI License for Import: Meaning, Requirements, Procedure, and Fees

FSSAI License for import is crucial for importing any food products to ensure the safety and quality standard of the food items. In India, vegetable oil, pulses, and fresh and dry fruits accounted for 72.1% of agricultural imports in 2023. If any food business imports food such as preserved fruit, vegetables, fruit juices, cereals, dairy products, coffee, tea, spices, and dry fruits, then they must apply for the FSSAI license for smooth operation. Before starting the importing food business in India, obtain an FSSAI certificate to ensure food safety management under the FSSAI Act 2006. Bizfoc is the leading provider of FSSAI licenses for importers, ensuring efficient and timely registration.

What is FSSAI Registration for Import?

FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a government body of India that regulates and supervises all food items that are imported from another country. FSSAI's main objective is to maintain all the products' safety and quality. Every Food Business must obtain an FSSAI License to import every type of food item to the country and keep track of all the imports. FSSAI authority ensures that the License has been issued after all verification of the FBO. It allots a 14-digit unique number to every food business operator of importers to ensure food safety management.

Which Type of License is Required for Import?

To start an importing food business, you must obtain an FSSAI license as it is a mandatory certificate. In India, for the import of food businesses, an FSSAI Central License is necessary to obtain. This Certification ensures all the food safety standards and permits the import of food in a lawful way.

Document Required for Online FSSAI Registration for Import

These are the necessary documents required for FSSAI Registration for Import:

• Address proof by authorized government authorities
• Identity card issued by the government
• Proof of ownership of the establishment
• Partnership deed or company incorporation certificate
• Certificate from the Ministry of Commerce 100% EOU
• Coop Act-1861/Multistate Coop Act-2002 certification if required
• Form IX duly filled
• Form B must be filled

These documents are mandatory for importing food to India.

• Ingredient list
• Specimen copy of the label
• Declaration
• Bill of Entry
• Country of Origin Certificate
• Import-export code

Cost of FSSAI License for Import

The cost of FSSAI License for importing is as mentioned below:

Note: The Central FSSAI License is particularly required for food importing because it covers all the operations including import and distribution on a large scale across the country, unlike the State License that is required for food operation within a single state.

Process of FSSAI License for Import

The applicant can apply for FSSAI registration effectively by following these straightforward steps:

Step-1: Online Application

The applicant visits the Foscos web portal and fills out Form-B with accurate information. Upload all required documents according to your business requirements. After completing the application form a reference number will be generated to track the status of the FSSAI license.

Step-2: Inspection by FSSAI

Once the application is completed the FSSAI authority will respond within one week to the application as per the guidelines. If the application gets rejected, the food safety authority will perform an inspection at the premises.

Step-3: Approval from FSSAI

After verifying the FSSAI application, the FSSAI authority will give clearance and proceed to the next step for the issuance of the FSSAI license.

Step-4: Issuance of FSSAI license

Once the applicant gets the approval then the central licensing authority will issue the FSSAI license and send the FSSAI certificate to the registered email address.

Renewal of FSSAI License for Import

Before obtaining an FSSAI License for import the applicant must know the validity of the license, which is valid for a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 5 years. The applicant needs to renew the license within the expiry date, in case if the food operators fail to renew it then they shall be paid a late fee of ₹ 100 per day till the date of renewal.

FSSAI Compliance for Importers

These are the necessary FSSAI Compliance for importers:

• All the importers need to file annual returns through form-D and submit the form to regional FSSAI authorities before May 31st every year.
• The shelf life of the imported food items should be up to a minimum of 60% during the time of import. In case the shelf life of the product is less than 7 days then NOC FSSAI is mandatory.
• The food business operator must have the proper hygienic storage facilities.
• The food safety officer carried out testing on a random sampling of imported food items.
• Declaration once the food consignment arrives at port.
• No food operators will import any food items that are not transported or stored in optimal storage conditions, controlled temperature, and hygienic conditions.

Why Choose Bizfoc?

To start an import food business in India, you need to obtain an FSSAI registration for import to ensure the safety and quality of the food products that are imported. FSSAI license number is given to all food business operators for import. Getting in touch with Bizfoc to obtain an FSSAI license for import can be the best option, and here’s how it can help make the registration process smoother and more efficient. The reasons for choosing Bizfoc are given below:

• Expert Guidance and Experienced Personnel
• Streamlined Process
• Personalized Service
• Accuracy and Efficiency
• Compliance Fulfillment
• Support of Experts

Conclusion

Obtaining an FSSAI license for an import business is not just a regulatory requirement but also an important step towards ensuring food safety and compliance with Indian standards. It signifies the commitment to delivering safe, hygienic, and quality food products to consumers while following a legal framework that protects public health. The process involves meticulous documentation, following specific standards, and periodic compliance checks to maintain the license validity.

FAQs related to FSSAI for Import