The most important aspect of the food industry is FSSAI License. It is mandatory to all the food business owners to obtain this license in order to comply with the FSS Act of 2006. Not just obtaining FSSAI License is sufficient, its renewal is also important as this license is not a one time thing. There are many important things regarding the renewal of the FSSAI License but in the current blog will discuss the seven most important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process. This will help you out while taking or applying for the renewal of your license. Hence must go through this writeup till the end in order to get familiar with the key important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process.
What is FSSAI License and its Renewal?
Under the food safety laws of India it is compulsory for all the food businesses in the market to obtain a license from the FSSAI, an authority made under the FSS Act 2006 in order to implement the food safety law. This license is called FSSAI License. After following the proper procedure of law when one gets this license through registration then that is known as FSSAI License Registration. All these things are crucial that is why discussed here. Also all these things are also one of the important aspects to know before discussing the important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process.
Once the license is issued then it’s important to comply with its important legal needs. One such need is renewal of FSSAI License. This license can be issued minimum for one year and maximum for 5 years after which one needs to renew it. For how many years one wants to protect it, completely depends on the applicant. Accordingly the fees of the license also vary. In case if you forget to renew your license or you deliberately ignored to renew it, then you may face heavy fines and penalties.
What are the 7 Important Things to Know about the FSSAI License Renewal Process?
Some of the key important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process are mentioned below:
Timely Renewal is Crucial
It’s essential to renew your FSSAI license on time to ensure uninterrupted legal operation of your food business. The license has a specific validity period, and renewing before expiration avoids penalties or legal issues. Hence one must renew the license even before it expires, because renewal is not a directory provision under the food safety laws but it is a mandatory one. Ignorance may lead to serious repercussions. Start the renewal process well in advance of the expiration date. Planning ahead allows you to gather necessary documents, address any potential issues, and submit the renewal application without last-minute stress.
Documents Required for the Renewal
The second most important thing to know about the FSSAI License renewal process is documentation. Without having proper documentation one cannot get the renewal, hence you must have the following documents while applying for the renewal:
- Ensure you have the original copy of your existing FSSAI license. This is a primary document required for the renewal process.
- Provide a valid identification document, such as Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport of the proprietor, partners, or directors of the food business.
- Furnish an updated address proof for the food business, such as an electricity bill, water bill, or property tax receipt.
- Include documents related to the legal status of your food business, such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Partnership Deed, or other relevant registration documents.
- Complete the FSSAI declaration form accurately, reaffirming details about the food business and its compliance with food safety regulations.
- Implement and document the Food Safety Management System, outlining the processes and controls in place for ensuring food safety.
- If someone other than the business owner is applying for renewal, provide an authority letter empowering them to submit the renewal application on behalf of the business.
- Obtain a No Objection Certificate from local health or municipal authorities, indicating compliance with local health and safety regulations.
- Clearly list the names and details of all the food products you intend to continue manufacturing or selling under the renewed license.
Key Rules of FSSAI Renewal
- Ensure to renew your FSSAI license before its expiration date.
- Submit your renewal application well before the expiry to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Provide accurate and updated details in the renewal application, including any changes.
- Keep the original copy of your existing FSSAI license for the renewal process.
- Pay the renewal fee through authorized channels specified by the FSSAI.
- Ready for a possible inspection to assess compliance with safety and hygiene standards.
- Maintain accurate records related to food safety, quality control, and business operations.
- Display the renewed FSSAI license prominently at your food business premises.
- Adhere to FSSAI regulations, including hygiene standards and quality control.
- Stay informed about renewal dates to avoid penalties or legal consequences for an expired license.
Process of FSSAI Renewal
- Go to the official FSSAI website and log in to your account.
- Select the renewal option in the portal and fill in the required details.
- Upload necessary documents like the current license and other relevant certificates.
- Pay the renewal fee using the online payment options provided on the portal.
- Be prepared for an inspection if deemed necessary by the FSSAI authorities.
- Once the renewal process is complete, you will receive the renewed FSSAI license with a new validity period.
Display the Renewed License
After a successful renewal, prominently displaying the renewed FSSAI license at your food business premises is also one of the important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process. This not only fulfills a legal requirement but also instills confidence in consumers regarding the safety and compliance of your food products. This will give a boost to your business, hence one must follow the same.
Time for FSSAI License Renewal
FSSAI License Registration can be obtained for one year or two years or three years or four years or five years. It depends on the business owner. Maximum it can be obtained for five years and minimum for one year. According to the year of licensing renewal needs to be done. For example if a license has been taken for three years then renewal needs to be done within three years. It is one of the important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process.
Benefits of FSSAI Renewal
- FSSAI license ensures that your food business complies with the legal requirements set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
- Having the FSSAI license builds trust among consumers, as it signifies that your food products meet safety and quality standards.
- The license enhances your business credibility, making it easier to enter the market and gain the confidence of customers.
- FSSAI compliance is often a prerequisite for collaborations and partnerships, facilitating the smooth expansion of your food business.
- It provides a competitive advantage by assuring customers that your products adhere to established safety standards.
- FSSAI compliance aligns with global food safety standards, opening doors for international trade and export opportunities.
- Holding an FSSAI license makes your business eligible for government support and participation in various industry schemes.
- It eases the process of obtaining loans or funding from banks, as compliance with regulatory norms is a favorable factor.
- The license guarantees the quality and safety of your food products, promoting a positive image among consumers.
- In case of any defective products, having an FSSAI license streamlines the recall process, minimizing harm to consumers.
- FSSAI compliance contributes to consumer awareness about food safety, encouraging responsible and informed food choices.
- It lowers the risk of legal issues and penalties associated with the sale of unsafe or substandard food products.
- Maintaining FSSAI standards contributes to a positive business reputation, attracting more customers and fostering long-term relationships.
Conclusion
In the realm of the food industry, the FSSAI License stands as a cornerstone, and its renewal is a pivotal responsibility for all food business owners under the FSS Act of 2006. Beyond being a one-time formality, renewal is a continuous obligation, and overlooking it can result in substantial fines. This blog sheds light on seven important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process. Timely renewal is emphasized to prevent legal complications, and a comprehensive list of required documents is highlighted. The renewal process, key rules, and the significance of displaying the renewed license are outlined step by step. The blog underscores the important things to know about the FSSAI License renewal process, which includes maintaining accurate records, and being prepared for inspections. Overall, the renewal process is presented as a vital practice not only for legal compliance but also for building consumer trust, business credibility.
