What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an official regulatory body established under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. FSSAI’s primary objective is to ensure the safety and quality of food products for the consumption of the Indian population. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India sets standards for food products and monitors their production, distribution, import, and sale to ensure that they meet the recommended safety and quality benchmarks.
Why is FSSAI important for the food export business?
For businesses involved in food exports, conformity with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India regulations is important. FSSAI certification is not only a legal provision but also a mark of quality assurance. Many international markets demand Food Safety and Standards Authority of India submission as a mandatory for importing food products. Having FSSAI certification enhances the credibility of the food export business, attending trust among global consumers and authorities regarding the safety and quality of the products.
What is FSSAI Act?
The FSSAI Act, also called the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, is the legislation that allows the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to regulate and oversee food safety in India. The act lays down the framework for establishing standards, guidelines, and regulations about the manufacturing, processing, packaging, distribution, sale, and import of food products. It aims to ensure that food items meet the necessary quality and safety standards, safeguarding the health of consumers.
Types of FSSAI license for export business
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India offers various types of licenses based on the scale and nature of the food business. For food export businesses, the relevant licenses include:
Basic License: Applicable for small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
State License: Suitable to medium-sized enterprises operating within a specific state with an annual turnover exceeding ₹12 lakhs.
Central License: Compulsory for large-scale food exporters and those operating in multiple states with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.
Terms and conditions and validity for FSSAI registration
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India registration comes with certain terms and conditions that businesses must observe, including maintaining hygiene standards, following labeling requirements, and ensuring conformity with safety regulations. The validity of the FSSAI license depends on the type:
Basic License: 1 to 5 years
State License: 1 to 5 years
Central License: 1 to 5 years
Time taken to get an FSSAI registration.
A basic Food Safety and Standards Authority of India license can be issued within 10 to 30 days.
A State and Central license can take a period of 60 to 30 days.
Validity of FSSAI Registration
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India licenses issued to food businesses are valid for a period of 1 to 5 years as selected by the Food Business Operator.
It is mandatory to apply for license renewal 30 days before the expiry of the current license.
Non-renewal of licenses can fetch a fine of Rs.100 per day until the renewal is made.
Any lapse in renewal within the stipulated date can result in the old license becoming deactivated and businesses will have to reactivate the license which may take 10 to 15 days for authorities approval.
Also, If an entity is operating without applying for the Food Safety certificate, this is punishable under the Act. The FBO may face custody or a penalty of up to Rs. 5 lakhs.
How to obtain FSSAI license for export business
For those considering the FSSAI license registration process, reaching out to PWIP can be a wise decision. PWIP not only facilitates the application process but also provides comprehensive guidance, ensuring that businesses maintain all the necessary regulations and requirements. PWIP expertise team can streamline the often complex process of obtaining an FSSAI license, saving time and resources for businesses. So, take the first step toward securing your Food Safety and Standards Authority of India license with PWIP for a smooth and flexible journey in the food export industry.