The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It is responsible for laying down standards for food products and regulating their production, distribution, and sale. All food businesses operating in India, whether they are involved in manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, or distribution of food, are required to obtain an FSSAI license. In this article, we will discuss the FSSAI Central License, which is one of the three types of licenses issued by the FSSAI.
What is FSSAI Central License?
The FSSAI Central License is a mandatory requirement for all food businesses that operate at the central level in India. It is issued by the Central Licensing Authority, which is located in Delhi. The Central License is required for food businesses that have an annual turnover of more than Rs. 20 crores or those that engage in the import and export of food products.
The Central License is valid for a period of 5 years and needs to be renewed before its expiry. It is issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which is a comprehensive law that governs food safety in India.
Who needs FSSAI Central License?
All food businesses that operate at the central level in India need to obtain an FSSAI Central License. This includes food manufacturers, processors, packers, and repackers, as well as importers and exporters of food products. If a food business operates in more than one state, it is considered to be a central-level business and needs to obtain a Central License.
The FSSAI Central License is also mandatory for businesses that supply food products to government institutions such as schools, hospitals, and prisons. Food businesses that operate in airports, seaports, and railway stations, as well as those that provide catering services to airlines, also need to obtain a Central License.
How to obtain FSSAI Central License?
The FSSAI Central License can be obtained online through the FSSAI website. The process of obtaining a Central License involves the following steps:
Step 1: Registration on the FSSAI website
The first step in obtaining a Central License is to register on the FSSAI website. This involves providing basic information such as the name of the food business, its address, and contact details.
Step 2: Uploading documents
Once the registration is complete, the food business needs to upload the necessary documents. These include a self-declaration form, a copy of the PAN card, and proof of address.
Step 3: Payment of fees
The food business needs to pay the required fees for obtaining the Central License. The fees depend on the type of business and the scope of its operations.
Step 4: Inspection by FSSAI officials
After the payment of fees, FSSAI Registration Process officials conduct an inspection of the food business premises to ensure compliance with food safety standards. If the inspection is satisfactory, the Central License is issued.
Benefits of FSSAI Central License:
- Legitimacy: The FSSAI Central License is a legal requirement for all food businesses that operate at the central level in India. Obtaining the Central License ensures that the food business is operating within the legal framework and is compliant with all food safety regulations.
- Consumer trust: Obtaining the Central License enhances the credibility of the food business and instills consumer trust. Consumers are more likely to trust a food business that has obtained the Central License and is operating within the legal framework.
- Increased business opportunities: Many government institutions, such as schools, hospitals, and prisons, require food businesses to have an Central License to supply food products. Obtaining the Central License can open up new business opportunities for food businesses as they can now supply to these institutions.
- International trade: Food businesses that engage in the import and export of food products need to obtain the Central License. Having the Central License can facilitate international trade as it provides assurance to foreign buyers that the food products are of high quality and meet international food safety standards.
- Good reputation: Obtaining the Central License is a mark of quality and reliability. It reflects the food business’s commitment to food safety and ensures that the food products meet high standards. This can help the food business build a good reputation in the market and attract more customers.
- Avoid penalties: Non-compliance with food safety regulations can result in heavy penalties and legal action. Obtaining the Central License ensures that the food business is compliant with all food safety regulations and can avoid any penalties.
Conclusion:
The FSSAI Central License is a mandatory requirement for all food businesses that operate at the central level in India. It is issued by the Central Licensing Authority and is valid for a period of 5 years. Obtaining the Central License ensures that the food business is compliant with all food safety regulations and can operate within the legal framework. It also provides many benefits such as increased business opportunities, enhanced consumer trust, and a good reputation. Food businesses that engage in the import and export of food products must obtain the Central License to facilitate international trade.
