What is Food License?

Food License, also known as Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) License, is a mandatory registration or licensing requirement for food business operators (FBOs) in India. The FSSAI License ensures that the food products manufactured, processed, or sold by FBOs meet the safety and quality standards set by the government. The FSSAI License is a way to regulate and monitor the safety and quality of food products available in the market and to prevent food adulteration, contamination, and other safety hazards.

Who Can apply for Food License?

Any individual or entity involved in the production, manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, or sale of food products is required to obtain a Food License in India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues three different types of licenses based on the size and nature of the food business:

Basic FSSAI Registration: This type of registration is for food businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs.
State FSSAI License: This type of license is for food businesses with an annual turnover of more than Rs. 12 lakhs but less than Rs. 20 crores.
Central FSSAI License: This type of license is for food businesses with an annual turnover of more than Rs. 20 crores.

Hence, any food business operator (FBO), such as manufacturers, traders, retailers, wholesalers, distributors, etc., falling under any of the above categories, must apply for and obtain the relevant type of Food License from FSSAI before starting the food business.

Documents Required for Food License

The documents required for Food License registration may vary depending on the type and scale of the food business. However, the following are some of the common documents that are usually required for obtaining a Food License:

Identity proof of the proprietor, partner, or director.
Address proof of the business premises.
Proof of ownership of the business premises (in case of ownership).
Rent agreement or lease agreement (in case of rented property).
Certificate of incorporation or partnership deed (in case of a company or partnership firm).
Food safety management plan or certificate.
List of food products to be manufactured or sold.
Details of machinery and equipment used in the manufacturing process.
Water test report.
No objection certificate (NOC) from the municipality or local health department (in some cases).
Declaration of conformity to food safety regulations.
Declaration of conformity to food safety regulations
Passport size photograph of the proprietor, partner, or director

Benefits of Food License

Obtaining a Food License in India provides numerous benefits for food businesses, including:

Legal compliance: Food License is a mandatory requirement under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and obtaining it ensures that the food business is legally compliant with the food safety regulations.
Business credibility: Having a Food License enhances the credibility of the food business and provides assurance to customers that the food products they consume are safe and meet the prescribed standards.
Market expansion: Food License is a pre-requisite for expanding the food business to new markets or locations.
Increased sales: Having a Food License may attract more customers, as it assures them of the safety and quality of the food products, which may result in increased sales and revenue.
Better supply chain management: Food License requires the implementation of a Food Safety Management System (FSMS), which ensures better supply chain management, reduces food safety hazards, and improves overall efficiency.
Avoidance of penalties: Failure to obtain a Food License or non-compliance with food safety regulations may result in penalties, fines, or even imprisonment, which can be avoided by obtaining a Food License.

Overall, obtaining a Food License is a necessary step for ensuring the safety and quality of food products, compliance with the law, and the growth and success of the food business.

Faq

Q1. What is the validity of the Food License?

The validity of the Food License in India varies depending on the type of license. The basic license (FSSAI Registration) is valid for 1-5 years, while the State License and Central License are valid for 5 years.

Q2. Is it mandatory for all food businesses to obtain a Food License?

Yes, all food businesses, including manufacturers, processors, transporters, and retailers, must obtain a Food License to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Q3. What are the consequences of operating a food business without a Food License?

Operating a food business without a Food License can result in legal consequences such as penalties, fines, or even imprisonment, and may also harm the reputation and credibility of the business.

Q4. Can a Food License be transferred from one person to another?

No, a Food License is non-transferable and cannot be transferred from one person to another. If there is a change in ownership, a new Food License must be obtained.