Have you ever wondered why some food businesses are required to register with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) while others are not? If you’re planning on starting a food business in India, it’s important to understand the role of FSSAI and why registration is necessary.
What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is a statutory body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
FSSAI’s mandate is to ensure that the food consumed by Indians is safe and healthy. To that end, FSSAI sets standards for food products and regulates the food business operators who manufacture, store, distribute, or sell food products in India.
Importance of FSSAI registration
If you’re planning to start a food business in India—whether it’s a restaurant, catering service, home-based business, or large-scale manufacturing operation—it’s important to obtain an FSSAI license. An FSSAI license is proof that your food business meets all the safety and quality standards set by the Authority.
Additionally, an FSSAI license allows you to:
- Build consumer confidence in your brand
- differentiates your product from unlicensed competitors
- streamlines your supply chain by dealing only with licensed suppliers
- enhances your export potential
Thus, having an FSSAI license is not just a legal requirement but also good for business.
Obtaining an FSSAI license
Depending on the type and scale of your food business, you will need to obtain either a Basic Registration or State License from FSSAI. The process for obtaining an FSSAI license is relatively simple and can be completed entirely online. All you need to do is visit the official FSSAI website and submit the relevant application form along with the supporting documents. Once your application has been reviewed and approved by FSSAI, you will receive your license via email.
To get fssai registration, food business operators need to submit certain documents as specified by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. In general, these documents include proof of identity and address, along with photographs of the food business premises and product labels. For manufacturing businesses, additional documentation may be required, such as formulas, process descriptions, and supplier information. Once all the required documents have been submitted, the fssai registration process will typically take around 30 days to complete. After that, food businesses can start operating with a valid fssai license.
Conclusion: Registering with FSSAI is a crucial step in starting a food business in India. Not only does it ensure that your product meets all safety and quality standards set by the Authority, but it also gives your product an edge over unlicensed competitors. Obtaining an FSSAI license is relatively simple and can be done entirely online. So if you’re planning on starting a food business in India, make sure to get your FSSAI liscense!
Also know How to apply for Shop Act Licence.
