The Ultimate Guide to Food Licensing: Why Your Business Needs It and How to Get Started!
The Ultimate Guide to Food Licensing: Why Your Business Needs It and How to Get Started!
So, if you plan to start a food business in India, whether through restaurant operations, catering, or manufacturing of food products, one of the first things you will need is a Food License. This legal requirement, which falls under the purview of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, FSSAI, ensures that your business complies with the health and safety standards that provide peace of mind to your consumers while they consume food items from your business. In this blog, we'll find out why you need a food license, how it can benefit your business, and what it takes to get one.
What is a Food License?
This license, known as FSSAI Registration, is given to all dealers in food or anyone who is engaged in the business of food. This includes restaurants, manufacturers, storage units, distributors, and even petty food retailers. It is a certification which guarantees that the food prepared or consumed is safe and meets the requirements of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Why Your Business Needs a Food License
1. Legal Compliance
Getting a license is statutory; you are bound to do it. Running a food business without a proper food permit incurs heavy fines and legal liabilities. By getting the license, you show that your business adheres to the law and prevents unnecessary legal problems.
2. Increases Customer Confidence
In today's health-conscious world, people would trust businesses that are licensed and accredited by known regulatory bodies. A license from FSSAI put up will reassure customers that your business maintains very high hygiene and safety standards.
3. Enhances Business Credibility
This also provides your brand with an added sense of credibility in the marketplace. This distinguishes your business as one whose quality and safety comes first. Further, it's a good avenue to attract investors or business partners that prefer regulatory compliance.
4. Expands Your Market
With the registration under FSSAI, your business can expand beyond local boundaries. Most of the e-commerce and food delivery companies such as Zomato and Swiggy have a pre-requisite that the food sellers must hold a valid FSSAI license in order to their business get registered on the platform.
5. Quality Control
FSSAI regulations ensure that you get habitual inspections and quality checks so that the food you serve adheres to the required safety standards. It saves you from penalties and ensures smooth operations in your business.
How to Get a Food License
1. Type of License
FSSAI licenses are categorized into three types:
Basic Registration: This is for small businesses whose annual turnover is less than ₹12 lakhs.
State License: For medium scale business enterprises with an annual turnover of ₹ 12 lakhs to ₹ 20 crores.
Central License: For large scale businesses with annual turnover more than ₹ 20 crores or having units beyond one state/UT.
2. Gather Necessary Documents
To obtain an FSSAI license, you will need the following documents:
Passport size photographs of applicant
Identity and address proof
Registration document of the business like GST registration, incorporation certificate.
Comprehensive list of food products your business will deal with.
Layout or location plan of premises .
3. Online Application
Visit the FSSAI website and fill up the appropriate application form. You would need to upload the necessary documents and pay the fee applicable as determined under your business category.
Inspection & Approval
Once the application is submitted, FSSAI authorities are permitted to inspect the premise in relation to the standards dealing with food safety. Once your license is issued, you obtain your FSSAI license valid for a term between 1 to 5 years based on your choice at the time of making the application.
5. Renew Your License
The food license is a procedure, not one-time registration. It's supposed to be renewed, you can renew it online at least 30 days before the expiry date so that you are not subjected to penalties.
Conclusion
Getting an FSSAI License is more than filling a form: it's the seal of assurance to your customers that you prioritize safety and quality. Whether you're just starting or expanding your food venture, you should really have this on the top of your checklist-getting your food permit.
In case you are unaware of where to start, Power of Factorial Business Solutions (Auditor) is always here for you in support of completing the FSSAI Registration and your business's compliance with the required regulation standards. Learn more at www.poweroffactorial.in/fssai-license today!
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