Food Industry has become one of the most rapidly growing industries in India. The reason for this popularity remains the increased demand for processed, packaged, and ready-to-eat foods. However, the growth entails the need for food products to be safe to consume. It is the field where FSSAI plays a very critical role.
Therefore, FSSAI Registration India for small businesses might involve food manufacturing, packaging, processing, or distribution. We may know that the FSSAI is a regulatory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is responsible for ensuring food safety and standards across the country.
A small food business needs to understand the FSSAI registration process. It will ensure that you remain compliant with the law for the safety of your products for consumers. We will discuss everything you need about FSSAI registration for small businesses in India.
What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is a statutory body constituted by the Government of India under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It includes FSSAI legal requirements that regulate food safety throughout the country & look to supervising food safety.
FSSAI ensures that all the food sold and consumed across the country meets specified requirements for safety standards & quality criteria. The food business operators receive a unique 14-digit license or registration number from the FSSAI. It is printed on food packaging that complies with the guidelines set by the department.
FSSAI has been entrusted with a few obligations, like setting up food safety standards. It conducts an inspection and traceability of the food, giving guidelines on labels and packaging of food. FSSAI undertakes food safety audits and an awareness program under the authority.
FSSAI Registration India is crucial for any food business in India, regardless of size. It can provide several benefits for small businesses, including:
1. Legal Compliance:
FSSAI registration or license is mandatory for any company involved in food production, processing, distribution, and sale in India. Non-compliance can lead to legal penalties and even the closure of the business.
2. Consumer Confidence:
The FSSAI logo and registration number on food products assure quality and safety. Consumers are more likely to trust products that are FSSAI-certified. It is because they know that the business adheres to food safety standards.
3. Access to Larger Markets:
Small businesses can enhance their credibility through compliance and ensuring license for their due business. It allows easy access to larger markets and retail chains. This registration can expand your reach to national and international markets.
4. Brand Value Enhancement:
FSSAI-registered or licensed businesses reflect a commitment to quality & food safety. It can greatly enhance the brand image and appeal to health-conscious consumers.
Types of FSSAI Registration
The type of FSSAI registration or license required for a company depends on its size, nature, and scope of operations. Small businesses generally fall into one of the following varieties:
1. FSSAI Registration (Basic Registration):
Small-scale food-producing businesses are entitled to FSSAI basic registration. It comprises small-scale food producers, street food vendors, or any small-scale food distributing business.
2. FSSAI State License:
FSSAI legal requirements for small businesses include a state license. It is needed for companies involved in the production, processing, or distribution of food products within the state. It is also applicable to medium-sized food businesses having turnover more than 12 lacs but less than 20 crores or having manufacturing capacity less than 2.5 MT/day.
3. FSSAI Central License:
Large scale food businesses having turnover more than 20 crores from respective premises or doing business under Import, Export, E-commerce, Mfg.- Nutraceuticals, Proprietary food or NSF food products must have an FSSAI central license.
FSSAI Registration Process for Small Businesses
FSSAI Registration India is fairly straightforward and can be completed online through the FSSAI portal. Below is a step-by-step guide to help small businesses navigate the registration process:
1. Check Eligibility
Before filling out the application for FSSAI registration, check whether your business requires only basic registration. You need to understand the requirements of a license at the state level or a central license. Most small businesses will require basic registration.
2. Document List
Collect all the documents required for FSSAI registration. These include:
- Identity and Address Proof of the business owner (Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, etc.)
- Business Address Proof (rent agreement, utility bill, etc.), is necessary for FSSAI legal requirements.
- Food Safety Management Plan (for specific food businesses)
- List of Food Products you intend to manufacture or distribute
- Partnership Deed or Certificate of Incorporation (if appropriate)
3. Online Application
First, visit the official FSSAI website and register an account on the FSSAI Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal. Fill out the application form with all the details about your business after registering. It includes the business name, address, type of business, and nature of operations. The form should be relatively simple for small companies. However, larger businesses or those seeking a state or central license will have more detailed requirements.
4. Submit the Application
The system will automatically generate an acknowledgment receipt. Make sure to keep this receipt for future reference.
5. Verification and Inspection
FSSAI will also inspect the business premises to ascertain the authenticity of the information given. However, it is not mandatory every time but significant for smaller businesses to keep their business safe and sound. It is crucial as far as food safety and hygiene are concerned while inspecting it.
6. Obtain Registration Number
FSSAI will provide a 14-digit registration number or license number after processing and approval of the application. Generally, the validity of the registration or license certificate will range between 1-5 years according to the kind of license secured.
FSSAI Registration Process for Small Businesses
You can follow a few key compliance requirements once you get FSSAI registration. It includes:
1. Maintain Hygiene Standards:
Food businesses must maintain clean and hygienic premises for food preparation, processing, or storage. It includes guidelines for the cleanliness of equipment, workspaces, and storage areas.
2. Food Safety Management System:
The small business should maintain a food safety management system as involved in FSSAI legal requirements. It involves appropriate handling, storage, and transport of food products, ensuring safety for consumption.
3. Regular Inspections:
FSSAI can conduct periodic inspections to ensure that businesses maintain the standards. It is significant to abide by all the safety and hygiene regulations, no penalty or suspension of registration occurs.
4. Labeling Requirements:
FSSAI requires specific labeling guidelines that businesses in food packaging must adhere to. Labels should contain the FSSAI logo, registration number, ingredients, nutritional information, best-before dates, and any allergens.
5. Training:
Food businesses should train employees in proper food safety practices, handling, and hygiene. Some small businesses may be required to appoint a food safety supervisor. They are responsible for standards implementation.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with FSSAI regulations may result in penalties. It includes fines, suspension, or revocation of the registration or license. The penalty may be harsh, including imprisonment, for businesses selling unsafe or adulterated food products. Hence, it is significant to maintain compliance with guidelines from FSSAI at all times.
Conclusion
Shauryam provides every detail about FSSAI registration or license. We know it is an essential step for any small food business in India. Our team comprehends that it ensures legal compliance, helps build consumer trust, improves market access, and elevates the brand’s reputation.
We will help you understand more about FSSAI legal requirements for your small businesses. Our team will assist you in following the registration process and adhering to food safety standards. Thus, your business will get protection and achieve compliance with statutory requirements.
