Overview of FSSAI Food License

FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) oversees and ensures the safety and standards of food products across India. Businesses in the food sector must obtain an FSSAI License, which comes in three types:

• FSSAI Basic Registration: For small businesses with turnover below 12 lakhs.

• FSSAI State License: For medium-sized businesses with turnover between 12 lakhs to 20 crores.

• FSSAI Central License: For large businesses with turnover above 20 crores.

These licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years and require renewal before expiry to avoid penalties. FSSAI registration assures consumers about food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently asked questions

Is an FSSAI license required for opening a food truck?

For food truck businesses, obtaining an FSSAI license is mandatory. If your estimated turnover is less than 12 lakhs per year, you can start with FSSAI Registration. However, if you anticipate a turnover exceeding 12 lakhs, you'll need to apply for a State license. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary licenses like NOC from local authorities to operate your food truck legally and safely. This streamlined approach ensures compliance and enables you to start your food truck business smoothly.

How much time does it take to get an FSSAI certificate?

FSSAI registration is typically issued and approved within 7 days. However, if authorities require additional clarification or documents within this period, the approval process may take longer.

For FSSAI State and Central licenses, the approval timeline is around 60 days. Similar to FSSAI registration, if authorities request further clarification or documents within this period, the approval process may be extended. It's important to adhere to all requirements promptly to expedite the licensing process.

I want to start a homemade spice business. Is it necessary to have my own company to take an FSSAI license? Or as an individual, can I take an FSSAI license?

To begin any food-related business, obtaining an FSSAI License is essential for manufacturing, distributing, transporting, and packaging food products. Company registration is not mandatory; individuals can also apply for an FSSAI License to start their venture in the food industry. This license ensures compliance with food safety standards and regulations, promoting consumer trust and business credibility.

What is the validity of the FSSAI license?

When applying for an FSSAI license, you can choose the duration of validity, ranging from one to five years. The chosen period determines the applicable fees for the license issuance, offering flexibility to suit your business needs and budget.