Fssai Central License
Fssai Central License
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Fssai Central License
FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) Central License is mandatory for larger food businesses operating at a national level or involved in import/export. Here’s the full detail of the Central License.
Eligibility for Central License
- Food businesses with an annual turnover of more than ₹20 crore.
- Importers and exporters of food products.
- Businesses engaged in the manufacture, processing, distribution, and sale of food products that operate in multiple states.
- Food businesses like dairy units, vegetable oil processing, slaughterhouses, etc., with large production capacities.
Validity and Renewal
- The Central License is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the fee paid.
- Businesses must apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiration. Failure to do so may attract penalties.
Documents Required
- Form B duly signed by the proprietor or authorized person.
- Blueprint or layout of the processing unit showing the dimensions.
- List of directors/partners/proprietor with full address and contact details.
- Name and list of equipment and machinery used along with the number and installed capacity.
- Photo ID and address proof of directors/proprietor/partners.
- List of food categories to be manufactured.
- Authority letter with the name and address of the responsible person nominated by the manufacturer.
- Analysis report of water to be used in the process (chemical & bacteriological).
- Proof of possession of premises (Rent Agreement or sale deed).
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the manufacturer in case of a re-labeler.
- Food safety management system plan or certificate.
- Source of raw materials for meat and meat processing plants, if applicable.
How to Apply
- The application is submitted online via the FSSAI Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS).
- Create a login on the FSSAI portal, fill out the Central License application form, and upload the necessary documents.
- Once the application is submitted, it will be verified, and the premises may be inspected.
- After successful verification, the Central License will be issued.
Fee Structure
The fee varies based on the type of food business and the number of years for which the license is being applied for. It ranges from ₹7,500 to ₹15,000 per year for different business categories.
Inspection and Compliance
- FSSAI officials may conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Businesses must maintain proper records of food safety and standards as required by the FSSAI.
- Any violations can lead to penalties, suspension, or cancellation of the license.
Importance of the Central License
- It ensures that the food products manufactured, distributed, or imported comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- It enhances consumer confidence and trust in the safety and quality of food products.
- Essential for businesses to operate legally across India and globally if involved in export.
Types of Food Businesses Requiring Central License
The FSSAI Central License is essential for a variety of large-scale or specialized food businesses, including but not limited to:
- Food Exporters and Importers: Companies dealing with importing food products into India or exporting from India.
- Central Government Organizations: Businesses operated by central government entities such as the Indian Railways, Airports, Seaports, etc.
- 100% Export Oriented Units: Businesses primarily focused on food exports.
- Food Processing Units: Large-scale processors involved in manufacturing food items with a turnover greater than ₹20 crore.
- Storage and Distribution Units: Large storage facilities or warehouses that store food products in bulk across multiple states.
- Hotels (5-Star and Above): Large-scale hospitality enterprises categorized as 5-star hotels or above by the Ministry of Tourism.
Procedure After Application Submission
Once you submit the application online, the following steps are typically involved:
- Acknowledgement Receipt: Upon successful submission of the application, the FSSAI system generates an acknowledgment receipt that you should keep for your records.
- Document Scrutiny: FSSAI officers verify the documents submitted during the application process.
- Site Inspection: If needed, a physical inspection of your business premises may be conducted by FSSAI authorities.
- Issuance of License: After successful verification, the FSSAI issues the Central License. The license number is provided, and you can download the certificate online.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
FSSAI imposes strict penalties for non-compliance with food safety standards or failure to obtain or renew the required license:
- Operating without a license: Businesses operating without the required FSSAI license can face a penalty of up to ₹5 lakh and imprisonment.
- Selling unsafe food: Selling food that is unsafe can lead to a penalty up to ₹10 lakh.
- Non-adherence to hygienic practices: Penalties range from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh, depending on the severity of the violation.
Tracking the Application Status
- You can track the status of your FSSAI Central License application via the FLRS portal.
- Using the application reference number, you can view details such as processing stage, site visit schedules (if applicable), and the final issuance of the license.
Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
- FSMS plays a crucial role in securing an FSSAI Central License. Businesses must develop and implement a robust FSMS plan, which includes:
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP): A system that identifies food safety risks and outlines preventive measures.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling, storing, and processing food.
- Monitoring and corrective action protocols to address any deviations from food safety standards.
- Some sectors may require certification in food safety standards such as ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000.
Conditions for License Suspension and Cancellation
The Central License can be suspended or canceled under the following conditions:
- If the food business is found to be non-compliant with safety regulations during inspections.
- If the business fails to maintain hygiene standards.
- If false information or documents are provided during the application process.
- For repeated violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Displaying the License Number
- FSSAI mandates that the FSSAI License Number must be displayed on food packages, labels, menus, and invoices.
- This ensures transparency and allows customers to verify the authenticity of the license.
FSSAI Central License Renewal
- The Central License must be renewed before expiration to avoid penalties.
- The renewal process is similar to the initial application and can be completed online through the FLRS portal.
- A late fee of ₹100 per day is charged if the renewal is not completed on time.
Importance for Consumers
- The FSSAI Central License assures customers that the food product complies with safety and quality regulations.
- Businesses that possess an FSSAI Central License enhance their reputation and trustworthiness in the market, which is a significant factor for both domestic and international trade.
Key Contacts
For assistance in obtaining an FSSAI Central License, you can contact:
- FSSAI Helpdesk: Available on the official website.
- Food Safety Commissioners: Each state has its Food Safety Commissioner who oversees the licensing process.
- Registered Consultants: Professional consultants who specialize in handling FSSAI license applications and renewals.
Central License for Specific Business Categories
Depending on the business category, certain specific licenses may need to be obtained as part of the Central License:
- Dairy Processing Units: Dairy units handling more than 50,000 liters of liquid milk per day or 2,500 metric tons of milk solids annually require a Central License.
- Vegetable Oil Processing Units: Units producing or processing vegetable oil using solvent extraction or refineries with a capacity of more than 2 metric tons per day.
- Slaughterhouses: Large slaughterhouses handling over 50 large animals per day or 150 small animals per day must obtain a Central License.
- Food Processing Units: Manufacturers processing more than 2 metric tons of food per day or handling businesses exporting their products.
Special Considerations for E-commerce Food Businesses
- Online food aggregators, food delivery platforms, and e-commerce platforms that list food products must also obtain the FSSAI Central License.
- This includes platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, Flipkart, etc., which serve as intermediaries between restaurants/food vendors and customers.
Guidelines for Packaging and Labeling
FSSAI provides strict guidelines for the packaging and labeling of food products:
- Packaging material must be food-grade and comply with FSSAI standards.
- Labels must include details such as FSSAI License number, batch number, manufacturing date, expiry date, nutritional information, and ingredient list.
- Labels for packaged food products must be legible, non-misleading, and in accordance with FSSAI guidelines to avoid penalties.
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