Introduction:
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. FSSAI is responsible for laying down the standards for food products and regulating their manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale, and import to ensure the safety and quality of food in India.
FSSAI issues food licenses or registrations to food businesses operating in India. The type of license or registration required depends on the size and nature of the food business.
The following are the three types of licenses/registrations issued by FSSAI:
1. Basic Registration:
This is applicable to small food businesses or petty food business operator whose annual turnover does not exceed Rs. 12 lakh. They need to register with the FSSAI by submitting the required documents and paying the applicable fee.
2. State License:
This is required for medium-sized food businesses whose annual turnover is between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore. They need to apply for a state-level license with the respective State Food Safety Department.
3. Central License:
This is applicable to large food businesses whose annual turnover exceeds Rs. 20 crore. They need to apply for a central license directly to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
The food licensing process involves submitting the necessary documents such as proof of identity, address proof, food safety management plan, and other supporting documents. The FSSAI conducts inspections and verifies the compliance of the food business with the food safety standards. Once the application is approved, the license or registration is issued.
It is important for food businesses to comply with the FSSAI regulations to ensure the safety and quality of food products and avoid any legal issues. The FSSAI regularly updates its regulations and guidelines, so it is advisable for food businesses to stay updated with the latest requirements.
If Food Business Operator run Food Business without licence;
Operating a food business without a valid license or registration from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The penalties for running a food business without a license can vary depending on the severity of the offense.
Here are some general penalties that can be imposed:
Fine: The FSSAI has the authority to impose a fine on the food business operator. The amount of the fine can vary, but it may be up to Rs. 5 lakh or more, depending on the nature and scale of the violation.
Imprisonment: In certain cases of serious violations, imprisonment can be imposed on the food business operator. The duration of imprisonment may range from six months to life imprisonment, depending on the nature and severity of the offense.
Product Recall or Seizure: If the food products are found to be unsafe or substandard, the FSSAI can order a recall of the products from the market or seize them.
Closure of the Food Business: In extreme cases, where there is a serious threat to public health or repeated non-compliance, the FSSAI may order the closure of the food business.
It is important to note that the penalties can vary based on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the FSSAI authorities. The FSSAI aims to ensure food safety and protect the health of consumers, so it takes violations of food safety regulations seriously. It is always advisable for food businesses to obtain the necessary license or registration from the FSSAI and comply with the applicable regulations to avoid any penalties or legal consequences.
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