Why Choose FSSAI Registration & License Consultants for Getting Your License?

Types of FSSAI Registration and the License

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) categorizes food businesses into three types based on their scale and nature of operations, each requiring a different level of authorization: Basic Registration, State License and Central License. Understanding the eligibility, fees and validity for each is crucial for any food business operator (FBO) in India.

Basic Registration:

Eligibility: Small-scale businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs. This includes petty retail food businesses, hawkers, itinerant vendors, temporary stalls,and cottage industriesThe FSSAI registration form that the applicant has to fill to obtain FSSAI basic registration is Form A.
Fee: Nil.
Validity: The validity of Basic license is for 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant's choice.
Process: Online registration through the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/).

State License:

Eligibility: Businesses with an annual turnover of more than Rs. 12 lakhs but less than Rs. 20 crores and engaged in activities like manufacturing, packaging, storing, distributing, or transporting food products.The FSSAI registration form that the applicant has to fill to obtain an FSSAI state license is Form B.
Fee: Varies depending on the state and category of business. Typically ranges from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 10,000.
Validity: The validity of state license is for 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant's choice.
Process: Online application through FoSCoS portal, with additional documents specific to the state.

Central License:

Eligibility: Businesses with an annual turnover of Rs. 20 crores or more, or those involved in importing food products, operating in multiple states, or manufacturing certain high-risk food items like infant food and milk products.The FSSAI registration form that the applicant has to fill to obtain FSSAI central license is Form B.
Fee: Varies depending on the category of business. Typically ranges from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 2 lakhs.
Validity: The validity of a central license is for 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant's choice.
Process: Online application through FoSCoS portal, with detailed documentation and requirements defined by FSSAI.

Challenges and Difficulties Faced by FBOs in Applying for or Renewing FSSAI License or Registration

Food Business Operators (FBOs) must secure a license or registration from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to comply with food safety standards and guidelines. Nevertheless, FBOs often encounter multiple obstacles when applying for or renewing their FSSAI license or registration:

• Procedural Challenges: While the FSSAI has rolled out an online platform for licenses and registrations, some FBOs, especially those in distant areas, might struggle with its usability due to technological issues or interface complexities. Additionally, the diverse license and registration categories, depending on an FBO's scale, type, and revenue, can lead to uncertainties.
• Documentary Needs: The FSSAI requires specific paperwork, including identity proofs, business plans, site layouts, food safety management blueprints, and product inventories, to accompany the application. For smaller or informal FBOs, obtaining or authenticating these documents can be problematic. Moreover, FSSAI's requests for extra documents or explanations can extend the application timeline.
• Legal Obligations: FBOs are obligated by the regulations set forth in the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and its pertinent rules. These mandates encompass acquiring a legitimate license, showcasing the FSSAI emblem and license details, maintaining cleanliness standards, adhering to packaging guidelines, and more. Breaching these stipulations or participating in activities like food tampering, incorrect labeling, or false advertisements can lead to legal actions or fines.
• Adherence Concerns: The FSSAI employs surveillance measures to ensure FBOs' alignment with food safety protocols, including on-site inspections, evaluations, and sample assessments. FBOs might face adherence issues if they fall short of the FSSAI's quality criteria, resist collaboration during official examinations, or overlook the timely submission of essential documents or license renewals.

Why is it important to hire an FSSAI consultant for registration, license, and compliance?

Complying with FSSAI regulations and obtaining the correct license or registration is essential for any food business operating in India. However, the process can be complex and time-consuming, involving legal procedures, detailed documentation, and various compliance requirements. This is where FSSAI consultants can prove invaluable. As experts in these regulations, they can guide you through every step of the licensing and registration process, from choosing the right license type to filling out forms, submitting documents, paying fees, and securing approval. By partnering with an FSSAI consultant, you save valuable time, effort, and money, while avoiding costly mistakes and delays that could jeopardize your business. Additionally, FSSAI consultants can assist with other aspects of compliance, such as labeling, packaging, testing, audits, and staff training. By ensuring your food business meets the highest standards of food safety and quality with the help of FSSAI consultants, you gain the trust and loyalty of your customers.

Tips for Choosing the Best FSSAI Consultants

• Free FSSAI consultations might seem tempting but be careful. Some consultants offer them to get your business, but their services may not be what you expect. You could end up paying hidden fees, getting low-quality work, or dealing with unreliable consultants.
• Before you hand over your business, do your due diligence. Check out online reviews. Look for positive testimonials and happy customers, not a trail of complaints and unresolved issues.
• Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues who have experience with FSSAI registration or licensing. Their recommendations can be more informative than online reviews.
• Skip online-only consultants and choose those with a physical office. This allows you to meet face-to-face, assess their professionalism, and see how they handle your questions. You can also get a sense of their communication style and working atmosphere.
• Ask for and verify the consultant's registration, GST number, PAN card, and other official documents. This ensures they are legitimate and follow FSSAI regulations, protecting you from potential scams or unreliable services.