The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an important regulatory body that ensures the safety and quality of food products in India. If you are a food manufacturer, you must obtain an FSSAI registration or license to ensure that your business complies with food safety regulations. This is crucial not only for meeting legal requirements but also for building consumer trust.

In this article, we will provide a simple, step-by-step guide to help you apply for FSSAI Registration for manufacturers, covering everything from understanding the FSSAI registration process to completing the application smoothly.

What is FSSAI Registration?

FSSAI registration is a process through which food businesses, including manufacturers, traders, retailers, and others in the food industry, obtain a certificate from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This certificate certifies that the food products meet the safety and hygiene standards set by the FSSAI.

The FSSAI registration process ensures that food products produced or sold in India are safe for consumption and meet the required standards. For food manufacturers, FSSAI registration is a must to ensure their products can legally be sold in the market.

Who Needs FSSAI Registration?

All food manufacturers involved in producing, processing, packaging, storing, or distributing food products must register with the FSSAI. The type of FSSAI registration or license you need depends on the size and scale of your food manufacturing business.

Here’s an overview of the different FSSAI licenses:

• Basic Registration: For small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakh. This is typically for small manufacturers, home-based businesses, or small traders.
  
  

• State License: For food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore. This license is for medium-sized manufacturers or those who operate in a particular state.
  
  

• Central License: For large food manufacturers with an annual turnover of over ₹20 crore. This is also for businesses involved in importing or exporting food products.

If your business is a small-scale food manufacturing unit, you will likely apply for the basic FSSAI registration. However, if your business is larger or operates at a national level, you may need a state or central license.

Why is FSSAI Registration Important for Manufacturers?

1. Legal Requirement: In India, it is a legal requirement for all food manufacturers to have an FSSAI registration or license. Failure to register can lead to penalties and legal issues.
   
   

2. Trust and Credibility: An FSSAI license assures consumers that your food products are safe and meet the required quality standards. It helps build consumer trust, which is crucial for the success of any food manufacturing business.
   
   

3. Market Access: Many retailers and businesses, especially large retailers or international buyers, require food suppliers to have an FSSAI license. It opens doors for collaboration with major food businesses and access to new markets.
   
   

4. Health and Safety Standards Compliance: FSSAI registration ensures that your food products comply with health and safety standards, reducing the risk of contamination and health hazards.
   
   

5. Avoiding Legal Issues: By obtaining an FSSAI registration, you ensure that your business complies with the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, which helps avoid any legal or regulatory issues.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration for Manufacturers

Before applying for FSSAI registration, it is important to gather all the required documents. The documentation required will vary depending on the size of your business and the type of registration (basic, state, or central) you need. However, here is a general list of documents required for FSSAI registration for food manufacturers:

1. Business Proof:
   
   

• For sole proprietors: A copy of the business owner’s ID (Aadhar card, PAN card, voter ID, etc.)
  
  

• For partnerships: Partnership deed
  
  

• For companies: Certificate of incorporation or registration from the Registrar of Companies (RoC)
  
  

2. Identity Proof: Valid ID proof (Aadhar card, voter ID, passport, etc.) of the applicant or authorized person.
   
   

3. Address Proof:
   
   

• A copy of the business premises lease agreement (if the business is rented)
  
  

• Electricity bill, water bill, or property tax receipt (to show proof of address)
  
  

4. Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan: This includes details about the safety and hygiene standards that your manufacturing unit follows, such as cleanliness protocols, food storage, processing, and waste disposal.
   
   

5. Blueprint/ Layout of the Manufacturing Unit: A detailed map of the facility that shows the layout, including equipment, storage areas, and production lines.
   
   

6. List of Food Products Manufactured: A list of the food products that you manufacture, along with their details.
   
   

7. List of Ingredients and Additives: A list of the ingredients used in the production of food items and any additives used in the process.
   
   

8. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Local Municipality: A letter from the local municipal authority confirming that your manufacturing unit complies with the required sanitary and safety standards.
   
   

9. Water Testing Report (if applicable): If your manufacturing unit uses water for processing food, you may need to submit a report confirming that the water meets safety standards.

Steps to Apply for FSSAI Registration for Manufacturers

1. Visit Website – Open the official FSSAI registration portal.

2. Fill Application Form – Enter your name, business details, and food category, and upload your PAN card.

3. Review & Submit – Check all details and submit the form.

4. Pay Fee – Complete the payment online as per your license type.

5. Verify OTP – Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile or email.

6. Inspection (If Required) – Officials may inspect your premises for approval.

7. Get an FSSAI License – Once approved, download your FSSAI license from the website

Suggested read: FSSAI Licence Registration in India

Conclusion

Applying for FSSAI registration as a manufacturer is a critical step in ensuring your food products are safe and compliant with regulatory standards. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily complete the registration process and obtain your FSSAI certificate.

Remember, having an FSSAI registration not only helps you comply with the law but also boosts consumer confidence in your products. It opens up opportunities for your business to expand and grow by supplying food products to government organizations, retailers, and international markets.