28 Feb Guidelines for Renewing Your FSSAI Food License
Introduction:
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) enforces regulations governing food businesses in accordance with the FSSAI Act 2006. It is imperative for individuals involved in food-related enterprises to acquire an FSSAI license. Renewing the FSSAI license is of equal significance as obtaining it initially. The renewal must be done within the stipulated validity period. Individuals engaging in various food sectors such as processing, manufacturing, packaging, or distribution are obliged to apply for FSSAI renewal every 1-5 years.
Who Requires Food License Renewal?
Renewal of the FSSAI license is mandatory for all individuals operating as food business operators, including but not limited to:
- Hotels
- Procurement entities
- Manufacturers
- Processors
- Packaging units
- Storage facilities
- Wholesalers
- Restaurants
- Food chains
- Food sellers
- Dairy and farm processors
- Food importers and exporters
- Pickle and dry fruit makers
- Raw material suppliers to food businesses
Types of Food License Renewal:
As per the FSSAI Act 2006, there are three categories of renewal licenses:
- Basic FSSAI License Renewal: Applicable for businesses with a turnover below ₹12 Lakhs.
- State FSSAI License Renewal: Suitable for businesses with a turnover ranging from ₹12 Lakhs to ₹20 Crores.
- Central FSSAI License Renewal: Intended for businesses with a turnover exceeding ₹20 Crores.
Significance of Food License Renewal:
FSSAI license is mandatory for all food business operators in India, including manufacturers, transporters, distributors, retailers, and vendors. Renewing the FSSAI license periodically is crucial for legal operation within the food industry. According to FSSAI regulations, renewal applications must be submitted 30 days prior to the expiry of the existing license.
Validity and Renewal Period:
Typically, food licenses are issued with a validity period ranging from 1 to 5 years. Renewal applications must be filed at least 30 days before the current license expires. However, eligible licenses for renewal can only be listed 120 days prior to expiry.
Renewal Process for FSSAI Food License:
Online Procedure: Renewing the FSSAI license can be conveniently done through the FoSCoS website:
- Visit the official FoSCoS website and navigate to the Renewal of License and Registration section.
- Select the license for renewal and provide necessary information including license/registration number, validity date, and captcha code.
- Complete Form B by uploading required documents, selecting renewal duration, and choosing payment method.
- Upon completion, a unique reference number will be generated for future reference.
- Track application status using the provided reference number.
Offline Procedure:
Alternatively, the renewal process can be conducted offline:
- Fill either Form A (Basic FSSAI Registration) or Form B (Central/State FSSAI registration) along with self-attested documents.
- Await inspection by the authority.
- Upon inspection, the FSSAI officer will assess compliance with food safety standards.
- The FSSAI license is typically issued within 60 days.
Required Documents for Food License Renewal:
Documents required for FSSAI license renewal include:
- Updated documents reflecting any changes since the previous registration
- Plan of Food Safety Management System (for Central Registration)
- Medical Fitness Certificates and List of Workers
- Any additional documents reflecting changes from the previous registration
Consequences of Late Renewal:
Late renewal of the food license incurs a daily late fee of ₹100. It is advisable for all food business operators to initiate renewal procedures at least 30 days before the license expiration date.
Conclusion:
Renewing the FSSAI license is crucial for legal compliance and consumer confidence in food safety. The online renewal process offers convenience, while timely renewal ensures uninterrupted business operations. It is recommended for all food business operators to prioritize the renewal of their FSSAI license to uphold regulatory standards and ensure consumer trust.
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