All You Need To Know About FSSAI State License

Do you also have food safety concerns regarding the food products you consume? Food safety is a crucial aspect that ensures the well-being of consumers. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the regulatory body responsible for regulating and supervising the safety and standards of food products. FSSAI has implemented a licensing system to ensure that food businesses comply with the required standards and maintain the quality of food products. One such license is the FSSAI State License, which is mandatory for medium-sized food businesses.
The experts of Legal Window are available to ensure that the food industry complies with FSSAI registration to keep up with the standards, quality as well as expectations of consumers. In this article, we will explore what FSSAI State License Registration.

Overview of FSSAI State License

The FSSAI State License is a comprehensive regulatory framework established by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to govern food businesses operating at the state level. It is a legal requirement designed to ensure the safety, quality, and integrity of food products consumed by the Indian population.

The FSSAI State License is a critical requirement for food businesses in India, ensuring the safety, quality, and integrity of food products. It not only promotes consumer health and confidence but also provides a robust regulatory framework for the food industry’s growth and sustainability. By obtaining and adhering to the FSSAI State License, food businesses can demonstrate their commitment to excellence and contribute to a healthier and safer food ecosystem in India.

Importance of FSSAI State License

You all must be wondering about the importance of the FSSAI State License. The importance is stated below-

• Ensuring Food Safety: FSSAI state license serves as a regulatory mechanism to ensure that food businesses meet prescribed safety and quality standards. By obtaining this license, businesses commit to maintaining hygiene, following good manufacturing practices, and implementing effective quality control measures.
• Consumer confidence: FSSAI state license instills confidence in consumers as it assures them that the food products they consume meet the necessary safety requirements. Display of FSSAI license numbers on food packaging or premises increases transparency and helps consumers make informed decisions.
• Legal Compliance: Running a food business without the required FSSAI state license is a violation of the law. Obtaining a license not only demonstrates a business’ commitment to legal compliance but also protects them from penalties, fines, and potential closure due to non-compliance.

Benefits of FSSAI State License

The advantages of an FSSAI State License include-

• It increases the credibility of the business
• It enables to attract more customers
• Creates strong brand awareness among target end users and the general public
• It offers legal stability, which is otherwise lacking in unregistered counterparts
• Facilitates business owner’s best practices to ensure food safety.

Who is required to obtain FSSAI State License?

FSSAI State License is suitable for food businesses operating within a single state in India. It is mandatory for medium-sized food businesses or those with an annual turnover between 12 lakh INR and 20 crores INR. The application for state-level registration is made to the respective State Food Safety Department.

Documents required for FSSAI State License Registration

To apply for an FSSAI State License, you typically need to submit the following documents:

• Form B: This is the application form for State License, which needs to be completed with accurate information.
• Blueprint or layout plan of the processing unit: This should include the dimensions and area allocation for various activities like storage, processing, packaging, etc.
• List of food products: Provide a comprehensive list of all the food products you intend to manufacture or handle.
• Photo identity proof: Submit a copy of your photo identity proof, such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, or driver’s license.
• Proof of possession of premises: You need to provide proof of ownership or possession of the premises where the food business will be conducted. This can be a property tax receipt, rental agreement, or any other relevant document.
• Proof of premises’ address: Submit documents like utility bills (electricity, water, etc.), NOC from the landlord, or any other valid proof of address for the business premises.
• Food safety management system plan: Include a written document outlining the details of your food safety management system, including standard operating procedures, food safety practices, etc.
• Partnership Deed, Memorandum of Association (MOA), or Articles of Association (AOA): If applicable, provide the relevant documents that establish the legal structure of your business.
• Certificate of incorporation: If your business is registered as a company, provide a copy of the certificate of incorporation.
• List of equipment and machinery: Submit a list of all the equipment and machinery used in your food business, along with their technical details and capacity.
• Source of milk and milk products: If you deal with milk and milk products, provide details of the source(s) from where you procure them.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the manufacturer: If you are a re-packer or re-labeler, obtain a NOC from the manufacturer of the product.

These are the general documents required for an FSSAI State License application. However, the exact requirements may vary depending on your state and the specific nature of your food business. It is advisable to check the FSSAI website or contact the local FSSAI office for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding document requirements for the State License application.

Procedure for Obtaining FSSAI State License

To obtain the FSSAI State License, businesses must follow a prescribed application process, which involves the following steps:

• Application Form: The applicant needs to fill out the FSSAI State License application form, providing accurate information about the business, its activities, and contact details.
• Document Submission: Supporting documents such as identity proof, address proof, food safety management system plan, and a list of food products to be manufactured or processed need to be submitted along with the application form.
• Inspection: After receiving the application, the FSSAI conducts a physical inspection of the premises to ensure compliance with hygiene, infrastructure, and safety standards.
• License Issuance: Upon successful inspection and verification of documents, the FSSAI grants the State License or Registration to the food business, along with a unique license number.

Renewal and Compliance

The FSSAI State License has a validity period of one to five years, depending on the category. Food businesses need to renew their license before their expiration to continue operations legally. The renewal process involves submitting updated information, ensuring ongoing compliance with FSSAI regulations, and paying the applicable renewal fees.

Compliance with FSSAI regulations includes maintaining records, following good manufacturing practices, adhering to labeling requirements, ensuring proper storage and transportation of food products, and regularly testing the quality of products. Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, and even cancellation of the license.

Final words

The FSSAI State License is an integral part of the food safety ecosystem in India. By obtaining this license, food businesses demonstrate their commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene, quality, and safety. It not only protects consumer health but also contributes to the growth and sustainability of the food industry. Compliance with the FSSAI guidelines is crucial for all food businesses to ensure consumer confidence, legal compliance, and overall public health.

In case of any query regarding the FSSAI State License, a team of expert advisors from Legal Window is here to assist you at every step. Feel free to reach us at [email protected].