FSSAI License Renewal in India

In India, ensuring food safety is a priority, which is where the FSSAI license comes into play. FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is a regulatory body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to manage food safety standards in the industry. 

For Food Business Operators (FBOs) in India, getting a valid FSSAI license is mandatory to operate legally. However, holding a license is not enough – timely FSSAI renewal is equally important. The FSSAI license renewal is imperative for businesses to review and maintain food safety standards as required. 

This article will guide you through the FSSAI renewal process, including the online FSSAI renewal steps and the documents required for the food license renewal. By completing the FSSAI certificate renewal procedure, you can ensure that your food business continues to operate within the law, maintaining the trust of your customers and regulatory authorities. 

FSSAI Registration

Here are the general steps involved in FSSAI registration:

1. Understand the Need for FSSAI License

FSSAI registration and FSSAI registration renewal are mandatory for all FBOs in India. This ensures public health by controlling the quality standards of all food produced, stored, and distributed in India.     

2. Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Certificate and Registration

There are two types of FBOs that require this license: 

• Small food businesses, such as petty retailers, hawkers, and temporary stallholders.
• Larger businesses, like an outlet, need a central or state FSSAI license.

3. Application for FSSAI Registration

To register, FBOs must submit Form A via the FSSAI online portal, providing details about their business.

4. FSSAI Registration Documentation 

The required documents for FSSAI registration include your passport-sized photo, proof of business premises, and identity proof like your Aadhaar Card or PAN card.

5. Application Fee

A nominal fee is required, which varies on the type and the scale of your business.

6. Inspection of Business (If Applicable)

Certain businesses may need an inspection by an FSSAI officer to verify their premises.

7. Issuance of FSSAI Certificate

After verification, the FSSAI registration certificate is issued within 7-10 days, featuring a 14-digit registration number, which should be displayed on all your food packets.

8. FSSAI Renewal

FSSAI license renewal is necessary before expiration. It is typically valid for 1 to 5 years. 

What Is an FSSAI License?

An FSSAI license is a mandatory authorisation for all food business operators (FBOs) in India, issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This license ensures that food products meet the established safety and quality standards, which are science-backed benchmarks for food safety. 

The FSSAI license is categorised into three types based on the business size:

• Basic License for small businesses with an annual turnover of up to INR 12 lakhs.
• State License for medium-sized businesses with turnover between INR 12 lakhs and INR 20 crores.
• Central License for large businesses with turnover above INR 20 crores or those involved in import/export. 

Businesses must obtain the FSSAI license to ensure compliance. Additionally, FBOs must undergo food license renewal to continue operating legally. Timely FSSAI license renewal is essential to avoid legal issues and maintain food safety standards.

Validity of FSSAI License/ Registration

The FSSAI license is generally issued with a validity of 1 to 5 years from the license's date. For smooth processing, FBOs must initiate the food license renewal process 30 days prior to the expiration date. The FSSAI food license renewal application can be submitted through the official portal by filling out Forms A or Form B. 

FBOs may face penalties if they fail to renew their licenses within the 30-day window. A late fee of INR 100 per day will be charged along with the renewal fee. Further, delay leads to more severe penalties like:

A penalty of three times the standard fee is issued if the delay is within 90 days.
If the delay is between 90 and 180 days, a penalty of five times the standard fee, including a two-time penalty fee, is issued. 

Benefits of FSSAI License Renewal

There are several benefits of timely FSSAI food license renewal online. Some of them are listed below: 

• Legal Compliance of FBO: As an FBO, an updated FSSAI license ensures that your business complies with legal requirements to operate in the country. This prevents penalties and legal actions for non-compliance. 
• Builds Consumer Trust: A valid FSSAI license enhances consumer confidence. Customers prefer businesses with an up-to-date FSSAI certificate, which helps to establish your commitment to food safety and quality. 
• Access to Latest Safety Standards: FSSAI license renewal keeps you updated about the latest food safety practices. This information helps you with the latest industry standards and improve your business operations.
• Reduce Safety Hazards and Risks: Timely FSSAI renewal minimises the risk of food safety issues. Compliance with FSSAI standards reduces the likelihood of foodborne illnesses, ensuring a safer environment for customers and protecting the business.
• Keeps Your Business Inspection-Ready: FSSAI renewal ensures that a business is prepared for inspections and audits. Regular compliance with FSSAI standards means the business is always ready for official evaluations, which helps avoid disruptions and potential penalties. Being audit-ready demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high food safety and quality standards.

Renewal of FSSAI License After Expiry Date

If your FSSAI license has expired, it is important to act quickly to renew it and avoid penalties. The FSSAI license renewal process should ideally happen 30 to 60 days before your license expires. However, if the license has already expired, you have a 30-day grace period during which you can renew it with a minimal penalty.

• Handling Late Renewal: A penalty of INR 100 per day applies for each day past the expiry date. To calculate the total penalty, you should carefully count the number of days since the license expired, then multiply it by INR 100.
• Accessing the Online Portal: Visit the official FSSAI online portal and log in with your credentials. If you don’t have an account, create one using your FBO details.
• Filling Out the Renewal Form: Select the 'Renewal' option and enter the expired license number. Provide the necessary details and attach documents like the previous license copy and updated business information.
• Paying Fees: The system will calculate the total renewal fee, including any late fees. You should use the available online options to complete the payment.
• Submitting the Application: After payment, submit your renewal application. Next, you must verify that all details are correct and all your documents have been uploaded to prevent delays.
• Verification and Issuance: Following submission, your application may be reviewed, and an inspection by FSSAI officials might be conducted to ensure compliance. Once approved, download your renewed FSSAI certificate from the portal.

Lastly, you should carefully store your renewed license and payment receipts for future reference and compliance checks. Also, set reminders to renew your FSSAI food license before it expires to avoid complications.

Documents Required for FSSAI License Renewal

To renew your FSSAI license, you will need the following documents: your previous FSSAI license, the application form, proof of business premises, a food safety management plan, a no objection certificate (NOC), and photographs of authorised signatories. Additional documents may be required depending on your local authority's regulations.

FSSAI Renewal Online Procedure

The FSSAI online renewal procedure is quite similar to the expired license process. Follow these steps to renew the FSSAI certificate. 

1. Visit FSSAI’s official portal and log in with your credentials. 
2. Select the 'Renewal' option under 'License/Registration' to access the renewal application form.
3. Now, accurately enter your existing license number and business details to avoid delays.
4. Upload the required documents as discussed above.
5. The system will calculate the renewal fee, including any applicable late fees if you renew after the expiry date. 
6. Proceed with the payment using the available online options.
7. Submit your application after ensuring all details and documents are correct.
8. The FSSAI authorities will review your application and may conduct an inspection to confirm compliance.
9. Download and print the renewed FSSAI certificate from the portal once it is approved.

Conclusion

Timely FSSAI license renewal is essential for maintaining food safety standards and legal compliance. You must regularly update your FSSAI certificate to ensure your food business operates smoothly, builds consumer trust, and avoids penalties. 

Covering costs such as FSSAI registration and renewal, along with initiatives for expanding your food business, can be a challenge. SMFG India Credit offers tailored business loans of up to INR 75 lakhs* without requiring collateral to support your enterprise. Apply online today!