FAQS

1.What is FSSAI and its role?

FSSAI has been created for laying down science-based standards for articles of food and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.

2.What is the purpose of FSSAI registration?

It ensures the food products undergo quality checks thereby curtailing the food adulteration and sale of sub-standard products. It is responsible for the registering and licensing of the Food Business Operators (FBO) in India and it lays down the rules and regulations for running the food business in India.

3.What is the basic principle of FSSAI?

It envisages regulation of manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import of food to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption and for consumers connected therewith.

4.Which product comes under FSSAI?

• Product standards.
• Health supplements.
• Proprietary food.
• Non-Specified Food.
• Vegan Food.
• Organic Food.
• Exports only.
• Packaging.

5.Is GST required for FSSAI?

From 18th July 2022, the Government has withdrawn the GST exemption on services provided by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India ('FSSAI') to Food Business Operators by way of licensing, registration, and analysis/testing of food. In other words, these services of FSSAI are now subject to GST.

6.Which are the three types of FSSAI license?

FSSAI in India issues the following three types of license:

• Central License.
• State License.
• Basic Registration.

7.Is FSSAI mandatory in India?

Yes, the FSSAI license is mandatory for both the export and import of food products. You will need to apply for FSSAI Central License for your export unit.

8.Is FSSAI a certification?

FSSAI certificate authorizes the business to obtain legal benefits to prevent you from fine, debarment, or both which a food business has to face if it fails to obtain the FSSAI license.

9.What are the objectives of FSSAI?

Objectives of FSSAI Act

To generate confidence among all the stakeholders of being a friendly, accessible, and responsive (public service) body or authority. Building capacity of various stakeholders for an active participatory role in food safety.

10.What is the impact of FSSAI?

Increased Compliance Costs. One of the most immediate impacts of FSSAI regulations on the food industry has been an increase in compliance costs. Businesses are required to follow strict guidelines regarding food safety and labelling, and failure to do so can result in hefty fines and even the closure of the business.

11.What is the scope of FSSAI in India?

Scope of FSSAI Act

It provides the Food Safety and Standards Authority Of India as the principal Government Authority responsible for preparing specific regulations under the Act.

12.What is the procedure for obtaining FSSAI registration online?

• FBOs can obtain FSSAI registration online by filling and submitting the FSSAI registration form, i.e. Form A (application for Registration) or Form B (application for State and Central License) on the FoSCoS portal. The FBOs can also register offline by submitting Form A or Form B to the Food and Safety Department.
• The FSSAI registration form must be accompanied by the required documents. The documents must be uploaded online on the FoSCos portal at the time of filling the application or submitted to the Food and Safety Department along with the application physically.
• The FSSAI registration form can be accepted or it may be rejected by the Department within 7 days from the date of receipt of an application either physically or online through the FoSCoS portal. If the application is rejected it has to be intimated to the applicant in writing.
• The Department will scrutinise the documents submitted.
• The Department may conduct an inspection of the food premises, before granting the FSSAI registration certificate, if necessary.
• If the Department is satisfied that the FBO meets all the required criteria, then it will grant an FSSAI registration certificate with the registration number and the photo of the applicant email ID. The applicant can also download the FSSAI registration certificate by logging into the FoSCoS portal.
• FBO should prominently display the certificate of FSSAI registration at the place of business during business hours.

 

FAQ