FSSAI

An Overview of FSSAI License

In India, FSSAI (Food Safety & Standards Authority of India) is a legal authority that provides an FSSAI License to all FBOs (Food Business Operators) in India. It is compulsory to follow all the rules & regulations prescribed by FSSAI for food quality control by FBOs. Be it food manufacturing, packaging, processing, selling, or distribution, the FBOs need to obtain an FSSAI License to run their business. In India, FSSAI Basic Registration or FSSAI Registration generally covers the small Food Business Operators and it is entirely different from the FSSAI State and FSSAI Central License. FSSAI Basic License or Registration can be obtained digitally by simply filling out the application form for FSSAI Basic Registration from an electronic system known as FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System).

What is FoSCoS?

FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) is an improved version of FLRS (Food Licensing & Registration System) which was in 2012 for issuance of FSSAI Licenses. This new enhanced version was introduced because, over the years, users complained of the slow speed of FLRS and software experts resisted new changes on FLRS, thus impeding any further expansion, improvement, and innovation in the licensing system.

Benefits of FSSAI License in India

In India, the benefits of an FSSAI License are as follows:

• Consumer Awareness: Nowadays, people have become vigilant regarding the quality of the product they consume. FSSAI Registration assures the food quality and increases the customer base for the company. Consequently, it helps in developing the brand name of the company.
• Business Expansion: FSSAI License provides more possibilities and opportunities for expansion at any geographic location.
• Legal Advantage: The FSSAI Certification gives the chance of legal enforcement for any non-compliance.
• FSSAI Logo: FSSAI logo acts as a mark of assurance that the product is safe to consume.
• Government Funding: The FSSAI certification assists the Food Business Operators (FBOs) in obtaining the State/ Central Government Funding.
• Brand Value: A company’s brand value automatically increases once it is FSSAI registered.
• Recognitions from Government: In India, the government recognises the FSSAI Registration as consequential to customer trust and a vast consumer base.

Documents Required for Basic FSSAI License in India

Following are some vital documents required for a Basic FSSAI License in India:

1. Photo identity proof of the food business operators;
2. Business certificate i.e., Certificate of Incorporation, Partnership Deed, Shop & Establishment License or other Business Registration Certificate;
3. A detailed plan of the FSMS (Food Safety Management System);
4. List of all food products processed or manufactured;
5. Details of account information;
6. Possession of proof of business premises, i.e., Rental Agreement, NOC from the owner of the rented premises, latest utility bills, etc.,
7. Supporting documents (if needed) like NOC by Panchayat, Municipality, Health NOC, copy of the license from the manufacturer, etc.

Online Procedure for Basic FSSAI Registration or License

Following is the step by step procedure for obtaining a Basic FSSAI License or Registration: Step 1: First, the applicant or FBOs must apply online by fining Form-A (Application for Basic Registration) on the FoSCoS portal. Step 2: The application form should be accompanied by the needed documents. All the relevant documents must be uploaded online on the FoSCoS portal during filling the application or submitted to the concerned depart along with the application physically. Step 3: The application form for the registration can be accepted/it may be rejected by the Department within 7 days from the filing of an application through the FoSCoS portal. In case the application is rejected, it has to be intimated to the applicant in writing. Step 4: After submitting the application and documents, the Department will examine the documents submitted and the Department may conduct an examination or inspection of the food premises. Step 5: If the Department is satisfied that the FBO meets all the required criteria, then it will issue an FSSAI License.