Every food processing business in India must obtain FSSAI registration or licence before commencing operations. Failure to comply attracts penalties up to Rs 5 lakh and potential imprisonment under Section 55 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration vs Licence?
The distinction between FSSAI registration and licence depends on your annual turnover and business scale:
- Basic Registration: Annual turnover up to Rs 12 lakh (petty food manufacturers, small retailers)
- State Licence: Turnover between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 20 crore
- Central Licence: Turnover above Rs 20 crore, or operating in multiple states
Key Compliance Requirements
- Display FSSAI licence number on all product labels
- Maintain records of food safety management system
- Ensure hygienic conditions as per Schedule 4
- Get products tested at NABL-accredited labs annually
- File annual returns by 31st May each year
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The penalties under FSSA 2006 are severe:
- Operating without licence: Up to Rs 5 lakh fine (Section 63)
- Substandard food: Up to Rs 5 lakh fine (Section 50)
- Misbranded food: Up to Rs 3 lakh fine (Section 52)
- False advertising: Up to Rs 10 lakh fine (Section 53)
Non-compliance with FSSAI regulations is one of the most common reasons food businesses receive closure notices from Food Safety Officers.
How Compliance Radar Helps
Compliance Radar automatically identifies all FSSAI obligations applicable to your specific food business type, tracks filing deadlines, and alerts you before penalties hit. Check your compliance posture free at complianceradar.in.
FAQ
What is the validity of an FSSAI licence?
FSSAI licences are valid for 1 to 5 years depending on the option chosen at the time of application. Renewal must be filed 30 days before expiry.
Can I operate while my FSSAI application is pending?
Yes, you receive an acknowledgement number that serves as a temporary licence for 60 days from the date of application.
What documents are needed for FSSAI registration?
Photo ID, address proof, passport-size photo, and a declaration form. For licences, you also need a food safety management plan, NOC from municipality, and layout plan of the premises.
Is FSSAI mandatory for home-based food businesses?
Yes, even home-based food businesses need at least basic FSSAI registration if annual turnover exceeds Rs 12 lakh.
What happens if I miss the annual return filing deadline?
Late filing attracts a penalty of Rs 100 per day of delay. Persistent non-filing can lead to licence suspension.