What is a Food License? How do you check your FSSAI license status?
Table of Contents
Introduction to Food License
The Role of FSSAI
Types of FSSAI Licenses
How to Check Your FSSAI License Status
Importance of Having a Valid FSSAI License
Conclusion
1. Introduction to Food License
A food license is a legal document that certifies a food business's compliance with safety and hygiene standards set by the national food safety authority. In India, this authority is the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which regulates and monitors food businesses to ensure the safety and quality of food products.
2. The Role of FSSAI
FSSAI, established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, is responsible for the following functions:
Setting standards for food products and ensuring their compliance
Overseeing the regulation of food product manufacturing, processing, distribution, sale, and importation.
Offering scientific counsel and providing technical assistance to the Central Government.
Promoting awareness about food safety and nutrition
Coordinating with various stakeholders and organizations to ensure the implementation of food safety measures
Training and capacity building of food safety personnel
Developing food safety management systems and guidelines
3. Types of FSSAI Licenses
There are three types of FSSAI licenses, depending on the scale and nature of the food business:
FSSAI Registration (Basic License): For small food businesses with an annual turnover of less than INR 12 lakhs. It is valid for 1-5 years.
FSSAI State License: For medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between INR 12 lakhs and INR 20 crores. It is valid for 1-5 years.
FSSAI Central License: For large food businesses with an annual turnover above INR 20 crores, or those involved in import and export. It is valid for 1-5 years.
4. How to Check Your FSSAI License Status
Follow these steps to check the status of your FSSAI license:
Visit the official FSSAI website: https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in/.
Click on the "License/Registration" tab and select "Track Application."
Enter your 17-digit Application Reference Number (ARN) and click on "Search."
The status of your FSSAI license application will be displayed on the screen.
5. Importance of Having a Valid FSSAI License
A valid FSSAI license is crucial for food businesses because:
It ensures compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
It increases consumer confidence in the quality and safety of your food products.
It is a legal requirement for operating a food business in India.
It helps avoid penalties and legal issues arising from non-compliance.
6. Conclusion
Obtaining and maintaining a valid FSSAI license is essential for running a food business in India. By understanding the types of licenses, their eligibility criteria, and the process to check the license status, business owners can ensure their establishment complies with the necessary food safety standards. This not only helps to avoid legal issues but also contributes to building consumer trust and promoting a healthy food environment in the country.
