One of the most important factors about any food company in India is food safety. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) also controls food business by licensing and registering food businesses to maintain hygiene, quality and compliance. Suppose you plan to open a food business. In that case, whether it’s a small food stall, a restaurant, a manufacturing unit, or an online food delivery service, it’s essential to understand the structure of FSSAI license fees in India.
Importance of FSSAI License
An FSSAI license is not only a compliance measure but also a sign of quality and reliability on behalf of the customers. It is a way of making sure that the food you serve or sell is in line with the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006. A food business operator can be placed under heavy penalties and legal actions in case the FSSAI registration or license is not valid. In addition to compliance, an FSSAI license increases your brand and consumer trust.
Types of FSSAI License in India
It is important to know that the FSSAI license fees in India are subject to three major versions based on the size of the business, before one can understand the type of license to obtain.
The first one is the FSSAI Basic Registration, which is applicable to small enterprises and start-ups whose annual turnover does not exceed twelve lakh rupees. The second classification is the FSSAI State License that applies to medium-sized businesses that have a turnover of between twelve lakh rupees and twenty crore rupees. The third type is the FSSAI Central License, which is given to large food establishments that are either nationally based or have a turnover of more than twenty crore rupees.
All the categories have varying fee packages and renewal rates, and every food business operator is expected to take into account the requirements before applying.
1. FSSAI Basic Registration Fees
The FSSAI Basic Registration is adequate for very small food businesses, hawkers, petty retailers or startups. This registration is done by the government at a nominal fee, and thus can be easily afforded by small operators. The registration fee is also a basic fee, which is normally approximately one hundred rupees per year. The registration may be renewed annually, and the fee for renewal is still the same.
3. FSSAI State License Fees
Once a food business crosses the basic level with an annual turnover of between twelve lakh rupees and twenty crores rupees, the operator must secure a State License. The FSSAI State License in India differ according to the nature of the activity of business-like manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution or transportation.
In the case of manufacturing and processing units, the charges usually vary between one thousand two and five thousand rupees per annum. In other types of categories, like traders, distributors, or restaurants, the fee structure tends to be lower than that of large-scale manufacturing. Validity of the State License may be selected up to one to five years and the fees are billed accordingly.
3. FSSAI Central License Fees
Companies that run their business across more than one state, importers, exporters and large businesses are supposed to receive an FSSAI Central License. Businesses that have a turnover that goes beyond twenty crore rupees are also eligible for this license. FSSAI Central License fee in India is usually seven thousand five hundred rupees per annum.
Large food manufacturers, those who are involved in the import and export of food items, food businesses that supply to government institutions and e-commerce food platforms are usually required to have the Central License. Similar to the State License, the Central License may be issued on a one-five-year basis, and the fee is accordingly set.
Renewal of FSSAI License and Fees
Similar to the first application, the renewal of the FSSAI licenses is also associated with fees. Renewing cost for the license will vary depending on the nature of the license and the years taken. Failure to renew the license within the time frame results in the business operator having to incur extra charges as a result of late payment or even losing the license. To avoid fines by the government, it will always be wise to request renewal at least thirty days before the expiry of the license.
Penalties for Non-Payment or Non-Compliance
Running any food business without an FSSAI license or without paying the fees is an offence that is punishable. The punishment can be fines as well as loss of the business license. In extreme cases, prosecutions can also be taken to court. As such, it is of great significance that all operators in the food business know the fee structure and remit the fees on time.
Online Application and Payment of Fees
Nowadays, it is easier to apply to FSSAI through the online portal. The business operators are able to register, apply, upload documents and even pay fees online without the need to visit the government offices. The system is open and it saves time and energy. After the application has been submitted and payment made, the license is processed once it is verified accordingly.
Importance of FSSAI License Fees
Any entrepreneur who intends to venture into the food market in India needs to know some of the FSSAI license charges in India. It assists in budgeting, helps to observe the food law and avoids unwarranted fines. Whether you are a street peddler, a mid-sized restaurant owner, or a large food exporter, the correct license with the proper payment of fees is a necessary step on the way to a successful business.
Conclusion
FSSAI license is not a mere formality- it is a legal requirement as well as a seal of confidence in the Indian food industry. The fee scheme is developed in a manner that is affordable to small businesses and at the same time poses sufficient regulation to large players. Knowing existing types of licenses and corresponding fees, each operator in the food business will be able to make the right choice, stay on track, and gain the confidence of the consumer base. When you pay the right FSSAI license fees in India on time, not only do you keep your business on the right side of the law, but you also boost its reputation in the competitive market.
