Who needs FSSAI Registration?

“Health is wealth” you must have heard it many times. Securing one’s health is really important. But it is really difficult to do so without establishing a separate department for the same. Hence, in 2006, the government came up with the FSS Act of 2006. It is a food safety and standards regulation act that ensures food safety in India. As per this act, everyone who is in the food business needs FSSAI registration to run their food business. Without this license, one cannot run a food business in India. Therefore, every food business owner must take this license to run their business freely. 

Types of FSSAI License 

In India, Under the FSS Act, all food business owner needs FSSAI registration, which is further divided into three types, which are mentioned below: 

General FSSAI Registration 

The General FSSAI License is the most basic level of certification in accordance with food safety regulations. It is designed to accommodate small-scale food businesses. This license can be easily obtained through online procedures and comes with a nominal fee, making it accessible for small food businesses with limited turnovers. It primarily applies to businesses with an annual turnover below Rs. 12 lakhs.

State FSSAI Registration 

A State FSSAI License is typically required for businesses with a turnover exceeding Rs. 12 lakhs, but it’s not solely based on turnover. Other factors also play a role in determining if a business needs this license. Different types of food businesses fall under the state-level food license requirements, and accordingly, it should be obtained. 

Central FSSAI License 

The Central FSSAI License applies to certain special or particular types of food businesses, like the businesses involved in importing and exporting food, e-commerce related to food, and the production of health supplements. There’s no set turnover limit for this license, as it varies between different businesses. In some cases, turnover doesn’t even play a role. This license is considered the highest level of certification under food safety laws.

Food Business Needs FSSAI Registration 

All the food businesses, whether they are working on a small level or are well settled, needs FSSAI Registration. Some of the main food businesses that need FSSAI registration are mentioned below: 

• Dairy or milk businesses 
• Vegetable oil units 
• Slaughtering houses 
• Food manufacturing businesses 
• Businesses related to the addition of food substances 
• The food storage house will also needs FSSAI registration
• Transportation of food from one place to another place will also require this food license 
• Wholesale as well as retail  food businesses
• The distributor of the food needs an FSSAI license 
• Hotels and restaurants that serve food will also require a food license 
• Import and export food businesses 
• Clubs and canteens also require the same 
• Caterer businesses are also included in the food businesses 
• Food vending machines also need this food license 
• Dhabhas are usually found on roadsides 
• Paying guests facility providers that serve food as well 
• Banquet halls that provide food services 
• Canteen that are home-based also needs FSSAI registration  
• Food stall holders 
• Vendors and hawkers 
• Dabbawalas also needs this food license 
• Food stall holders in religious gatherings, fairs, etc. 
• Proprietory food businesses, as well as health supplement food businesses 
• Non-specific food business and radiation processing food businesses 
• Food businesses on the premises of the government 
• E-commerce food businesses 
• Ayurvedic, homoeopathic and allopathic drug businesses 

Important Aspects of Needs of FSSAI License 

There are certain important aspects of the needs of FSSAI registration that one must have an idea about. These are: 

Benefits of FSSAI License 

• To comply with the law one needs FSSAI registration 
• The government can keep an eye on the food businesses 
• Food safety can be maintained in the market 
• Clean and healthy food will be served 
• Build trust in the customers 
• Increases customer base of the business 
• Maintain hygiene and create awareness among the masses regarding food safety. 
• Credibility, as well as reliability, will be build 

Procedure to Obtain Food License Registration 

• Visit the official FSSAI government portal.
• Click on “Apply for license/registration” on the homepage.
• Choose the red box.
• Select your business’s state based on its address proof.
• Carefully choose the business category.
• Opt for “FSSAI License” as your license type.
• Proceed to the next page.
• Click on the available option of  “Click here to apply for registration for all businesses” on the screen of your system.
• Fill out Form A with your business details and generate credentials.
• Upload the required documents, make the payment, and expect your license in 10-15 working days upon successful review.

Documents Required to Get FSSAI Registration 

• Fill out Form A and make sure to sign it.
• Get identification and address proof for your company’s key people (directors, partners, or owners).
• Attach photos of these key people.
• Show proof of your business address.
• Don’t forget to complete and sign Form B.
• Draw a layout plan of your plant (if applicable).
• If you’re making food, list the categories of food you’re producing.
• Get a certificate saying your local municipality is okay with your business.
• Tell us what equipment you’re using in your plant.
• Explain where you’re getting your raw materials from.

Conclusion 

The FSSAI Act of 2006 mandates that anyone involved in the food business, regardless of scale, needs FSSAI registration. Obtaining an FSSAI license not only ensures legal compliance but also promotes food safety, hygiene, and customer trust. It’s a critical step in maintaining the health and well-being of the public while bolstering the credibility and reliability of food businesses. The process involves filling out forms, providing necessary documents, and following specific guidelines, making it accessible to a diverse range of food entrepreneurs. Ultimately, FSSAI registration contributes to a healthier, safer, and more transparent food industry in India.