One thing as a food business owner you must keep in your mind is that there is no such food business where FSSAI License Registration is not required. Whether one is doing small food business or a big food business all needs to obtain FSSAI License. Only thing that may vary is the type of license as there are three different types of license under the FSS Act of 2006. This mentioned law is the governing law for the food safety in the country. Hence we can say that it is mandatory to obtain FSSAI License for a fruit company as well. Under the food safety laws proper documentation as well as process for the registration under the FSSAI has been given. One needs to follow the same and get FSSAI License for a fruit company. In the present write-up will discuss in detail with respect to the same. If you are having a fruit company you can continue reading the current blog.
What do you Mean by FSSAI License?
Most businesses in India need to obtain certain licenses and registration from the government in order to start them. These licenses are a kind of permission obtained by the government after providing proper information with respect to any kind of business. This will help the government to maintain records of the businesses. Similarly if you are starting a food business in India you need to obtain a license by providing all the information to the FSSAI and that license is known as FSSAI License and its registration is called FSSAI License Registration. Under the food safety law there are three types of FSSAI License which are mentioned below:
- General for Basic FSSAI License for pretty or small food businesses
- State FSSAI License is for the businesses which are midsized
- Central FSSAI License is for the big businesses with high turnover
What do you Mean by a Fruit Company?
“Fruit companies” typically refer to businesses or companies that are involved in the production, or processing or distribution, or sale of fruits or all of them. These companies can operate at various stages of the supply chain, from farming and cultivation to packaging and retail. In the agricultural context, fruit companies may be engaged in growing and harvesting fruits, while in the commercial sector, they could include wholesalers, distributors, and retailers specializing in fruits. Additionally, there are companies that focus on processing fruits into various products such as juices, jams, or dried fruits. Some well-known examples of fruit companies include Dole, Chiquita, and Sun-Maid.
Process of Obtaining FSSAI License for a Fruit Company
In order to get FSSAI License for a fruit company follow the steps given below:
Process of registration
- Identify the specific FSSAI license category applicable to your fruit business (Basic, State, or Central) based on the scale and nature of operations.
- Visit the FSSAI online portal
- Complete the application form for the FSSAI License with accurate details about your fruit business.
- Submit the required documents, including business registration proof, identity proof, address proof, and details of the food products you intend to deal with.
- Pay the applicable license fee based on the type of FSSAI license you are applying for. This can be done online through the portal.
- The FSSAI authorities will verify the information provided and may request additional documents or clarification.
- A designated Food Safety Officer may conduct an on-site inspection of your fruit business premises to assess hygiene and safety standards.
- If everything meets the standards and requirements, the FSSAI license will be issued with a unique 14-digit registration or license number.
Post Registration Things
- Display the FSSAI license prominently at your fruit business premises. It is a legal requirement and builds trust with consumers.
- Ensure ongoing compliance with FSSAI regulations, including maintaining hygiene standards, quality control, and accurate record-keeping.
- Renewal of FSSAI license needs to be done before it expires to continue operating legally.
- Keep or maintain the track of the renewal dates and follow the prescribed process.
Documents Required for the FSSAI License for a Fruit Company
Some of the key documents which are required for the FSSAI License for a fruit company are mentioned below in detail:
- Provide documents related to the legal status of your fruit business, such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Partnership Deed, or other relevant business registration documents.
- Submit personal identification documents of the proprietor, partners, or directors, including Aadhar card, PAN card, or Passport.
- Furnish proof of the business address, such as the electricity bill, water bill, or property tax receipt.
- Include a list of all directors or partners involved in the fruit business along with their identification and address proofs.
- Complete the FSSAI declaration form accurately, providing information about the food products and categories you intend to deal with.
- Implement and document the Food Safety Management System, which outlines the processes and controls in place for ensuring food safety.
- Depending on the scale of your fruit business, provide documents such as sales invoices, production receipts, or turnover details.
- Include a basic layout or blueprint of your fruit business premises, indicating the dimensions and areas used for different operations.
- If someone other than the business owner is applying, provide an authority letter empowering them to submit the application on behalf of the business.
- Obtain a No Objection Certificate from the local health or municipal authorities, indicating compliance with local health and safety regulations.
- If your fruit products have a registered trademark, provide a copy of the trademark registration certificate.
- Clearly list the names and details of all the fruit products you intend to manufacture or sell.
Benefits of FSSAI License for a Fruit Company
Some of the key benefits or we can say advantages of the FSSAI License for a fruit company are mentioned below:
- Ensures compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations, making your fruit business legally authorized.
- Builds trust among consumers as the FSSAI license signifies adherence to quality and safety standards.
- Facilitates easy entry into the market by meeting regulatory requirements, enhancing business credibility.
- Enables smooth expansion of your fruit business, as FSSAI compliance is often a prerequisite for partnerships and collaborations.
- Provides a competitive edge by assuring customers that your fruit products meet established safety standards.
- Guarantees the quality and safety of your fruit products, promoting a positive image among consumers.
- Prioritizes consumer safety by implementing measures to prevent contamination and ensure hygienic food processing.
- Enhances the potential for international trade by aligning with global food safety standards, fostering export opportunities.
- Opens avenues for government support and participation in various schemes and initiatives for the food industry.
- Acts as a deterrent against food adulteration, ensuring that the fruit products reaching consumers are genuine and safe.
- Eases the process of obtaining loans or funding from banks and financial institutions due to compliance with regulatory norms.
- Streamlines the recall process in case of any defective or unsafe products, minimizing potential harm to consumers.
- Enhances consumer awareness about food safety, promoting responsible and informed food choices.
- Contributes to a positive business reputation, attracting more customers and fostering long-term relationships.
Conclusion
Obtaining FSSAI License for a fruit company, irrespective of its size is necessary. The FSSAI License ensures that the company complies with food safety regulations, building trust among consumers and facilitating market entry. The process of FSSAI License Registration for a fruit company involves identifying the appropriate license category, filling out the application on the FSSAI portal, submitting necessary documents, and undergoing inspection. Displaying the license prominently and ensuring ongoing compliance are essential post-registration steps.The required documents include business registration proof, personal identification documents, address proof, and a declaration of food products. The benefits of having an FSSAI License for a fruit company include legal authorization, consumer trust, market credibility, and access to government support, among others. Overall, it not only enhances business reputation but also contributes to ensuring the safety and quality of fruit products for consumers.
