FSSAI License

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is crucial for ensuring food safety, quality, and compliance in India. It is a mandatory requirement for anyone involved in the food business, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, restaurants, and online food operators. Here is a detailed explanation of why the FSSAI license is important, the types of licenses available, and the consequences of non-compliance.

Importance of the FSSAI License in India

Ensures Food Safety
The FSSAI license guarantees that food products meet specific safety and quality standards established by the government. It reduces the risk of contamination, foodborne illnesses, and adulteration, thereby safeguarding public health.
Regulatory Compliance
As per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, all food business operators (FBOs) must obtain an FSSAI license to operate legally. This ensures that businesses comply with national food safety regulations.
Consumer Trust
An FSSAI license serves as a mark of credibility and builds consumer confidence. Customers are more likely to trust and purchase food from businesses that adhere to certified food safety standards.
Market Access
The FSSAI license facilitates the smooth operation of food businesses across India, allowing them to expand without facing legal or regulatory hurdles. It also makes it easier for businesses to enter new markets, including exports.
Accountability
The license holds food businesses accountable for maintaining safety and quality standards throughout the supply chain, from production to distribution.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration in Delhi

The documentation required for obtaining an FSSAI license varies depending on the type of registration: Basic Registration, State License, or Central License. Below is a detailed list of the documents required for each type of registration:

1. Documents for FSSAI Basic Registration

Basic registration is applicable to small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs. The documents required for this registration include:

Photo Identity Proof:
- Aadhar card, PAN card, voter ID, or passport of the proprietor or business owner.
Address Proof of Food Business:
- Electricity bill, rental agreement, or any other valid address proof for the food business premises.
Proof of Business Premises Possession:
- Ownership documents, lease agreement, or rent receipt.
Food Business Constitution Certificate:
- GST registration certificate, trade license, or partnership deed, depending on the type of entity.
Details of the Nature of Business:
- A brief description of the food business, such as manufacturing, trading, retail, or distribution.
List of Food Articles/Products:
- A list of food items that the business will manufacture, process, or sell.

2. Documents for FSSAI State License

State licenses are issued to medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores. The required documents are:

Filled and Signed Form-B:
- Form-B is the standard application form for FSSAI State License, duly filled and signed by the applicant.
Address Proof of Food Business:
- Utility bill, rental agreement, or property ownership document for the business premises.
Layout of the Food Processing Unit:
- A blueprint or layout of the food processing or manufacturing area showing the location of equipment and machinery.
Proof of Business Premises Possession:
- Ownership papers, lease/rent agreement, or possession letter.
Food Business Constitution Certificate:
- GST certificate, trade license, partnership deed, or incorporation certificate based on the business entity type.
Details of Equipment and Machinery:
- A list detailing the name, horsepower used, and installed capacity of equipment and machinery in the food business.
Details of Members, Partners, Directors, or Executives:
- Name and contact details of all stakeholders involved in the business.
ID and Address Proof of Partners/Directors:
- Aadhar card, voter ID, or passport for the partners, proprietors, directors, or authorized signatories.
Water Analysis Report:
- A report from a recognized or public health laboratory showing the quality and safety of the water used in food processing.
List of Food Items to be Processed or Manufactured:
- Detailed information about the food products the business will handle.
Authority Letter:
- A letter from the manufacturer nominating a responsible person with their name and address details.
No Objection Certificate (NOC):
- A NOC from the manufacturer (if applicable).
Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan or Certificate:
- A copy of the FSMS plan or an FSMS certification for the food business.

3. Additional Tips for Document Preparation

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in the prescribed format.
Submit scanned copies of all required documents during the online application process.
Keep physical copies of documents ready for verification during inspections by FSSAI authorities.

Types of FSSAI Registration in Delhi

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) registration in Delhi is a vital requirement for any food business to operate legally. The registration is categorized into three types based on the annual turnover and production capacity of the food business. These are:

1. FSSAI Basic Registration

Eligibility

Turnover: Food Business Operators (FBOs) with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs are eligible for FSSAI Basic Registration.
Scope: This registration is designed for small-scale businesses and is generally suitable for small food retailers, home-based food producers, or food transporters.

Process

The application for Basic Registration is made using Form-A.
This form must be submitted to the designated officer appointed by the Food Safety Commissioner in Delhi.
The application is relatively simpler and involves fewer formalities compared to the other types of registrations.

Examples of Eligible Businesses

Small food manufacturers
Petty retailers or hawkers
Home-based food production units (e.g., homemade snacks, small bakery)
Food transporters and caterers with limited operations

Cost and Duration

Cost: The Basic Registration fee is nominal, making it the most cost-effective option for small businesses and startups.
Duration: It is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant’s request, and requires annual renewal.

2. FSSAI State Registration

Eligibility

Turnover: FBOs with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores must apply for the FSSAI State Registration.
Scope: This registration is for medium-sized businesses operating within a specific state, such as restaurants, small manufacturers, or distributors with a significant turnover.

Process

The application for State Registration is filed using Form-B.
Once submitted, the application is reviewed and approved by the office of the Food Safety Commissioner in Delhi.
State-level authorities are responsible for approving the registration and ensuring the food safety standards are met.

Examples of Eligible Businesses

Medium-sized restaurants, cafes, and hotels
Food manufacturers with moderate production capacity
Food distributors that operate within Delhi
Food suppliers to local institutions like schools, offices, and hospitals

Cost and Duration

Cost: The fees for State Registration are higher than for Basic Registration but still affordable for medium-sized businesses.
Duration: State licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years, and the business must apply for renewal before the expiry date.

3. FSSAI Central Registration

Eligibility

Turnover: FBOs with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or businesses involved in importing/exporting food products must obtain Central Registration.
Scope: This registration is necessary for large-scale businesses that operate not only within Delhi but across multiple states and even internationally.

Process

The application for Central Registration is also made using Form-B.
The application is submitted to the Central FSSAI Authority, which reviews the documents and grants approval.
Due to the nature of the business, the authorities may conduct more extensive checks and inspections before granting the license.

Examples of Eligible Businesses

Large-scale food manufacturers (e.g., factories producing packaged food products)
Exporters and importers of food products
Large restaurants and food chains that operate across multiple states
Government contractors that supply food to government institutions or airports

Scope

Central Registration allows businesses to operate across multiple states and even international markets.
It is especially necessary for businesses with operations that span more than one state or engage in cross-border trade.

Cost and Duration

Cost: Central Registration comes with the highest fee among all types of registrations, reflecting the scale of operations and the larger turnover involved.
Duration: This registration is valid for 1 to 5 years, and it also requires renewal every few years.

Key Differences Between FSSAI Basic, State, and Central Registration

Feature	Basic Registration	State Registration	Central Registration
Eligibility	Annual turnover < ₹12 lakhs	Annual turnover ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores	Annual turnover > ₹20 crores or involved in import/export
Application Form	Form-A	Form-B	Form-B
Type of Business	Small-scale businesses	Medium-sized businesses	Large-scale businesses and import/exporters
Approval Authority	Designated officer by Food Safety Commissioner (Delhi)	Food Safety Commissioner (Delhi)	Central FSSAI Authority
Cost	Lowest fee	Moderate fee	Highest fee
Validity	1 to 5 years	1 to 5 years	1 to 5 years
Scope of Operations	Limited to small-scale operations within Delhi	Operates within Delhi	Operates across multiple states and internationally

Conclusion

The FSSAI registration is an essential step for ensuring that food businesses operate legally and in compliance with food safety regulations. The type of FSSAI registration required depends on the size and scale of the business. Small businesses should opt for Basic Registration, while medium-sized businesses require State Registration. Large businesses or those involved in import/export will need to obtain Central Registration. By obtaining the appropriate FSSAI registration, businesses can ensure food safety, build consumer trust, and avoid penalties for non-compliance.

How to Get an FSSAI License in Delhi

Obtaining an FSSAI license in Delhi is a straightforward process that can be completed online via the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal. The license is required for all food businesses, including manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and service providers, to ensure compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Below is the step-by-step online procedure to apply for FSSAI registration or license:

Step-by-Step Procedure to Obtain FSSAI License

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

Go to the official Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) website at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in.
This portal is designed to facilitate the licensing and registration of food businesses across India.

Step 2: Start the Application Process

Scroll down the homepage and click on the ‘Apply License/Registration’ option.
From the dropdown list, select the state where your business operates. For Delhi-based businesses, select ‘Delhi’ as the state.

Step 3: Choose the Type of Business

Scroll down to select the category that applies to your business:
- ‘Trade/Retail’: For food traders, grocery stores, or retailers.
- ‘Manufacturer’: For food producers or manufacturers.
- ‘Food Services’: For restaurants, cafes, food delivery services, or catering businesses.

Step 4: Specify Turnover or Production Capacity

Depending on your food business turnover or production capacity, select the applicable option:
- If your turnover is below ₹12 lakhs, opt for FSSAI Basic Registration.
- For turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores, apply for the State License.
- For turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or if you’re engaged in imports/exports, apply for the Central License.
After selecting the appropriate option, click the ‘Proceed’ button.

Step 5: Application Form

On the next page, choose between:
- ‘Click here to apply for registration for all businesses’ (for Basic Registration).
- ‘Click here to apply for State License for all businesses’ (for medium or large-scale businesses).
Fill in the registration form with accurate details, such as:
- Name and address of the food business operator.
- Contact details.
- Type and scale of the food business.
- Details of products handled or manufactured.

Step 6: Upload Required Documents

Upload the necessary documents in the prescribed format. The documents may include:
- Aadhar card or identity proof of the proprietor/owner.
- Passport-sized photograph.
- Business registration proof (e.g., GST certificate or incorporation certificate).
- Address proof of the premises.
- Declaration form.
- List of food products handled or manufactured.

Step 7: Payment of Fees

Pay the application fee online. The fee amount depends on the type of license:
- Basic Registration: Nominal fee.
- State License: Fee varies based on the scale and type of business.
- Central License: Higher fee for large-scale businesses or exporters.

Step 8: Submit the Application

After completing the form and uploading the documents, click the ‘Submit’ button.
You will receive an acknowledgment receipt with a unique application reference number. This can be used to track the status of your application.

Post-Application Process

Inspection by FSSAI Authorities:
- Once the application is submitted, the central or state FSSAI authorities will review the details.
- They may conduct an inspection of your premises to ensure compliance with the food safety standards.
Approval of License:
- If the authorities are satisfied that your business complies with the requirements of the FSS Act, they will approve your application.
- The FSSAI registration or license will be issued in digital format, and you can download it from the portal.

Key Points to Remember

Ensure that all details entered in the application form are accurate and match the supporting documents.
Regularly check the status of your application on the FoSCoS portal using the application reference number.
Renew your FSSAI license before it expires to avoid penalties or disruptions in business operations.

Who Needs an FSSAI License?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is mandatory for all businesses involved in the food industry. Whether an entity is engaged in manufacturing, processing, packaging, distribution, or even online food delivery, an FSSAI license is required to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the various businesses and entities that require an FSSAI license.

1. Food Manufacturers

Who Needs It?
Any business involved in producing, processing, or manufacturing food products must obtain an FSSAI license. This includes factories, industrial food processing units, and small-scale home-based producers.