FSSAI CERTIFICATION

INTRODUCTION

FSSAI: Despite the growing demand for the food industry, consumers still face reliability issues. Adulteration, additives, and contamination remain significant concerns. The Indian government established the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to address these challenges. FSSAI oversees food manufacturing, storage, packaging, and handling practices of food businesses. Its primary objective is to regulate and ensure food safety, thereby protecting and promoting public health.

This regulatory body oversees India's food industries, ensuring compliance with government regulations. Its responsibility includes verifying the purity and meeting specified requirements of food products. It works to eliminate substandard food items.

WHAT IS FSSAI?

FSSAI, short for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, is an autonomous organization established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. It was instituted by Former Union Minister Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss on August 5, 2011, in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, which became effective in the same year.

The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, aimed at enhancing food hygiene and quality, has brought about substantial transformations in the food industry. The authority operates six regional offices located in Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai, Kolkata, Cochin, and Chennai. As per the provisions of the Act, no individual can initiate or conduct a food business without acquiring an FSSAI license or registration. Consequently, any entity engaged in the manufacturing, processing, packaging, or distribution of food is now required to obtain an FSSAI License or Registration.

TYPES OF FSSAI REGISTRATION/LICENSE

FSSAI in India issues the following three types of license

1. FSSAI Basic Registration License - The State Government provides a basic Registration license to operators in the food industry, including small-scale manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, and distributors with an annual turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakh. This license is valid for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 5 years. The registration process can be completed in just 7 days.

2. FSSAI State License - This license is issued by the State Government to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) including transportation, storage facilities, distributors, marketers, etc. The company must operate within a single state and have an annual turnover of at least Rs. 12 lakh. The license is valid for a minimum of one year and a maximum of five years. The process of obtaining a state license from the FSSAI typically takes 15 days.

3. FSSAI Central License - The Central Government issues this license. Food business operators (FBOs) with operations in multiple states must obtain a Central License for their headquarters. This license is applicable to FBOs with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crore. It has a validity period of one to five years. The processing time for this license is typically 25 days.

FUNCTIONS OF FSSAI

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) performs the following functions:

1. Setting Rules and Guidelines -FSSAI establishes regulations and standards that must be adhered to by all food manufacturing companies, prioritizing hygiene and food safety.

2. Granting License - To engage in any food-related business, owners must obtain certification and licensing with approval from FSSAI.

3. Test the Standard of Food - Food-producing and manufacturing companies undergo thorough inspections to ensure compliance with the established guidelines and standards.

4. Regular Audits -

5. Spreading Food Safety Awareness -FSSAI raises awareness and educates citizens about the importance of consuming safe and hygienic food.

6. Maintain Records and Data -FSSAI is also responsible for maintaining accurate records and data of all registered organizations. Violations of FSSAI rules can lead to the revocation of licenses.

7. Keeping the Government Updated -Report any food safety-related threats to government authorities for necessary action and assist in formulating food standard policies.

Guidelines for Compulsory Registration Scheme

WHAT ARE THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR FSSAI REGISTRATION?

The documents required for an FSSAI License vary based on its type. However, some key documents needed include:

1. Proof of address

2. Manufacturing process flowchart

3. Manufacturing layout plan

4. Brand certification document

5. Testing facility details

6. Equipment inventory

7. Premises ownership proof

8. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from municipality and local body

9. NOC/PA issued by FSSAI

10. Contact information of Directors

11. FSSAI Declaration form

12. Source of milk (if applicable)

13. Premises ownership proof

PROCEDURE FOR FSSAI REGISTRATION

The process of FSSAI Registration begins with gathering the essential documents required for registration.

1. Online submission of application -After obtaining the necessary documents, the subsequent step involves creating an online portal on the FSSAI website and submitting the registration application to the food safety department through the online platform.

2. Submission of (hardcopy) application -Additionally, it's essential to submit a hard copy of the application along with the required documents to the Food and Safety department.

3. Scrutiny -FSSAI officials will review the application, and within seven days of submission, the department will either approve or reject it.

4. Inspection from FSSAI - Following document verification, FSSAI Officials may opt to conduct an audit at the applicant's premises.

5. Grant of FSSAI Certificate - Upon approval of the application, the department will issue a registration certificate containing the applicant's registration number and photograph.

Sample of Grant Certificate for FSSAI

FOR WHOM FSSAI LICENSE IS MANDATORY IN INDIA

Whether you're starting a food processing, trading, repacking, wholesaling, marketing, canteen, or restaurant business, obtaining an FSSAI license is essential. According to the regulations outlined in the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, it is mandatory for the following entities to acquire FSSAI Registration or License.

1. Food manufacturers of all kinds

2. Suppliers of raw food materials

3. Importers and exporters of food products

4. Units involved in food storage and packaging

5. Food traders and merchants

6. Retailers of food products

7. Online operators in the food business

8. Catering services and hotels

9. Transporters and distributors of food products

10. Wholesale operators in the food business

TIMELINE FOR FSSAI LICENSE

The timeline varies based on the type of license, outlined as follows:

• Basic license: Approximately 7 days

• State License: Approximately 15 to 30 days

• Central License: Approximately 30 to 60 days

RENEWAL OF FSSAI LICENSE

The license is valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on the application fee paid. It must be renewed at least 30 days before its expiration date.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS