Understanding FSSAI and Its Importance

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food businesses to ensure quality and compliance with food safety standards. Any business involved in food production, processing, storage, distribution, or sale must obtain an FSSAI license. The validity period of this license determines how long a business can legally operate before renewal is required.

Types of FSSAI Licenses and Their Validity

FSSAI issues three types of licenses based on the scale and nature of the business:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration

• Applicable for small businesses and startups with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
• Validity period: 1 to 5 years (as chosen by the applicant).
• Renewal must be done before the expiration to avoid penalties.

2. State FSSAI License

• Required for mid-sized businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
• Issued by the State Authority where the business operates.
• Validity period: 1 to 5 years (as per applicant’s choice).
• Non-renewal leads to business suspension and legal consequences.

3. Central FSSAI License

• Mandatory for large-scale food businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crore.
• Also required for businesses involved in import/export, large manufacturing units, or those operating across multiple states.
• Validity period: 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant’s selection.
• Failure to renew results in cancellation and penalties.

How to Choose the Validity Period for an FSSAI License

The validity period of an FSSAI license can be selected by the applicant, ranging from 1 year to 5 years. Longer validity periods offer benefits like:

• Reduced renewal hassle and administrative burden.
• Cost savings, as renewal fees and documentation processes are avoided frequently.
• Continuous business operations without compliance interruptions.

FSSAI License Renewal Process

To ensure uninterrupted operations, businesses must renew their FSSAI license before it expires. The renewal process includes:

1. Application Submission: Filing Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State/Central License) through the FSSAI portal.
2. Document Verification: Submission of updated business details, food safety compliance reports, and required certificates.
3. Fee Payment: Renewal charges vary depending on the selected validity period.
4. Inspection (if required): For certain businesses, the FSSAI may conduct an inspection before approving renewal.

Late renewal incurs penalties, and if the license is not renewed within the stipulated time, the business must apply for a fresh license.

Penalties for Expired FSSAI License

• Fine of ₹100 per day from the date of expiration.
• Business operations may be legally restricted.
• Reputational damage and loss of consumer trust.

How ASK ASSOCIATES Helps with FSSAI License Validity and Renewal

ASK ASSOCIATES ensures that food businesses stay compliant by offering:
✔ FSSAI License Registration: We assist businesses in selecting the right license type and validity period.
✔ Timely Renewals: Our team monitors renewal deadlines and ensures smooth processing.
✔ Legal Compliance Assurance: We help businesses avoid penalties and maintain regulatory approval.
✔ Hassle-Free Documentation: Our experts handle all paperwork, inspections, and submissions.

By partnering with ASK ASSOCIATES, businesses can operate stress-free, focusing on growth while we take care of their FSSAI compliance needs.