Things to Know About FSSAI Online License Renewal

What is validity of FSSAI registration?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) grants registrations and licenses with validity periods of 1 to 5 years, as chosen by the Food Business Operator (FBO). However, to remain operational, FBOs must adhere to all FSSAI regulations and renew their registration/license before expiry.

What are the types of FSSAI registration renewal?

There are three different types of FSSAI registration based on the size of the business:

FSSAI Basic Registration Renewal: This type of renewal is applicable for Food Business Operators (FBOs) whose annual turnover is below ₹12 lakh. To apply for this renewal, FBOs need to use Form A.

FSSAI State License Renewal: This renewal is applicable for FBOs whose annual turnover is more than ₹12 lakh but below ₹20 crore. To apply, FBOs need to use Form B

FSSAI Central License Renewal: This renewal is applicable for FBOs whose annual turnover is more than ₹20 crores. To apply, FBOs also need to use Form B.

What are the documents required for FSSAI registration renewal?

Here are the documents required for FSSAI registration renewal, categorized by registration type:

For Normal or Basic Registration:

• Submit a duly signed Form A, along with all supporting documents.
• Provide identity proof such as a Driving License, Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Passport.
• Submit two recent passport-size photographs of the applicant.
• If applicable, provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Panchayat, municipality, or Health Department.
• If the office is rented, submit a copy of the rent agreement.

For Central License or State License:

• Submit a duly signed and completed Form B.
• Provide recent passport-size photographs of the Director, Partner, Proprietor, or Authorized Signatory.
• Submit a layout plan of the food processing plant.
• Provide address proof of the Director, Partner, Proprietor, or Authorized Signatory.
• Submit a list of all directors, including their contact details and full addresses.
• Provide identity and address proof for all listed directors.
• Submit a list of all food categories.
• Provide an authority letter nominated by the manufacturer to act on their behalf.
• Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the relevant local body or municipality.
• List the number and name of all equipment, along with their installed capacity and horsepower, for processing and manufacturing units.
• Submit a Partnership Deed (if applicable).
• Submit a copy of the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) if it's a company.
• Provide a Certificate of Hotel Industry issued by the Ministry of Tourism (if applicable).

Additionally, for Central License:

• Submit a certificate from the Ministry of Commerce for 100% EOU.
• Provide IEC documents issued by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).
• Submit supporting documents as turnover proof.
• Provide a report on water samples used in food.
• Submit possession proof such as the latest electricity bill or sales deed.
• Provide a canceled cheque.

FSSAI Registration Renewal Process

Complete the Application Form:

• Select Form A for Basic Registration renewal or Form B for Central or State License renewal.
• Ensure the form is signed by the authorized signatory and a government-issued photo ID is attached.
• Create a User ID and Password on the FSSAI website to access the application forms.

Attach Required Documents:

• Include a Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan, audit report, and self-declaration on the company's letterhead as per the specified format.
• Complete Form IX to nominate individuals responsible for food safety.

Submit Compliance Declaration:

• Submit a signed declaration from the authorized signatory confirming adherence to all Food Safety and Standards Act regulations.

Pay Fees and Await Verification:

• Submit the completed application, supporting documents, and prescribed fees.
• The authorities will carefully examine your application and may request an inspection of your premises to verify the details provided.

Expected Timeline:

• The FSSAI License Renewal process usually takes around 60 days.
• If the process exceeds 60 days without any notice from the authorities, you may continue your business operations without further delay.

Fees for the FSSAI Registration renewal

The fees for FSSAI registration renewal depend on the type of registration or license and the annual turnover of the food business. Here is a summary of the fees for different types of FSSAI registration renewal:

• FSSAI Basic Registration Renewal: This is applicable for food businesses whose annual turnover is below ₹12 lakh. The renewal fee is ₹100 per year.
• FSSAI State License Renewal: This is applicable for food businesses whose annual turnover is more than ₹12 lakh but below ₹20 crore. The renewal fee is ₹2000 per year.
• FSSAI Central License Renewal: This is applicable for food businesses whose annual turnover is more than ₹20 crore. The renewal fee is ₹7500 per year.

What are the benefits of FSSAI registration renewal?

• Avoids potential penalties and legal hassles associated with expired registration.
• Demonstrates ongoing commitment to food safety regulations, fostering trust with authorities.
• Builds trust and brand reputation, potentially attracting new customers and boosting loyalty among existing ones.
• Opens doors to larger contracts and business opportunities with reputable retailers and distributors who often require valid FSSAI licenses.
• Enables participation in trade shows and exhibitions, expanding your reach and market potential.
• Facilitates access to loans and other financial resources from banks and institutions, supporting business expansion.

What are the consequences of non-renewal of FSSAI registration?

Staying on top of your FSSAI registration renewal is important for any Food Business Operator (FBO). Not complying with the renewal mandates of FSSAI registration may lead to penalties:

Renewal Window:

• The FSSAI registration/license renewal process opens 120 days before the expiry date. This gives you ample time to gather documents and apply.
• To avoid any late fees, aim to submit your application between 120 and 90 days before expiry.

Late Fees:

• If you apply between 90 days and the expiry date, a late fee of ₹100 per day will be applied.
• If you miss the deadline and your registration/license expires, you will need to apply for a new registration instead of a renewal, which involves a different process and potentially higher fees.

Consequences of Non-Renewal:

• Operating with an expired license is illegal and can result in penalties, fines, or even business closure.
• Obtaining a new registration is more complex and time-consuming than a renewal.

Note: Set a reminder to initiate the renewal process 120 days before expiry and prepare all required documents well in advance to avoid last-minute scrambling.