Is an FSSAI License Mandatory for Selling Packaged Food?

Every day, people purchase packaged food. Biscuits, snacks, drinks, spices, and ready-to-eat meals are generally packaged. If you are considering venturing into this business, one question that comes to mind is: Is FSSAI registration (license) required to sell packaged food? Whether an FSSAI license is compulsory for selling packaged food is what many startups want to know. The response to this question is all the more important as it dictates how the business can be conducted. Operating without an FSSAI license can complicate your selling too. 

Why Is FSSAI Registration Important for Packaged Food?

FSSAI is the regulatory body under the Government of India that governs food-related businesses. It ensures the safety and quality of food.  

Under food safety regulations, every food business operator is required to get registered or licensed, as per the provisions of the FSS Act, 2006. Which is applicable will depend on the nature and scale of your business. 

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for ensuring that all food business operators comply with the regulations in the interest of consumers purchasing food. For packaged food sellers, FSSAI registration is a recognition. This certification tells  customers that the organisation is maintaining the necessary food safety regulations as well as FSSAI compliance. 

Who Needs FSSAI Registration for Packaged Food?

Different types of businesses dealing with packaged food may require FSSAI registration or licensing. 

• Retail shops selling packaged food

• Grocery and kirana stores

• Supermarkets

• Packaged snacks sellers

• Food distributors and wholesalers

• Businesses selling packaged food online 

• Food brands selling their own packaged products

• Businesses involved in food manufacturing or processing

The exact category depends on the activity carried out by the business. FSSAI’s eligibility system allows food businesses to select the appropriate kind of business and determine whether registration or a license is applicable.

FSSAI Registration or FSSAI License: Which One Is Required?

Not every packaged food business needs the same type of approval. Small or pretty food businesses may be eligible for FSSAI registration, while larger businesses may need a state or central FSSAI license. According to FSSAI, food business operators with an annual turnover of up to 12 lakh can generally obtain registration, subject to the applicable eligibility conditions; food businesses exceeding this limit require a license.

Therefore, business turnover, activity, production capacity, and type of food business should be checked before applying.

What If Packaged Food Is Sold Online?

Online selling does not remove the requirement to follow food safety regulations. Businesses involved in e-commerce food activities need to select the appropriate category and obtain the applicable FSSAI approval. FSSAI’s eligibility information specifically includes E-Commerce as a kind of food business, with Central License requirements for the specified category.

This is important for businesses selling packaged food through their own websites, online platforms, or other digital channels.

What About Distributors and Retailers?

A worker who handles food items will need different things than a worker who creates food products. Therefore, a store that sells packaged items does not always belong to the category of a company that makes those items.

For example, FSSAI lists activities such as making food, selling food in bulk, delivering food and selling food online as types of businesses. Selecting the type during registration with FSSAI ensures that the approval matches exactly what the business does.

How to Apply for FSSAI Registration?

Food businesses can use the Food Safety Compliance System to apply for FSSAI registration or FSSAI licensing. The person applying has to choose the business type, give all the needed information, and send the proper papers along with the payment.

Before sending the application, it is important to look at the business activity. It is also important to look at the place where the business is located. The type of food being sold must be checked carefully. The rules that must be followed should be reviewed too. This can help prevent changes or delays while the application is being handled. 

Also read What the FSSAI License  and its uses is the FBO Industry  

Conclusion

An FSSAI license is mandatory for selling packaged food. Food businesses that sell packaged food must have the FSSAI license or registration. The type of FSSAI license depends on the size of the business and the kind of packaged food sold.

Small businesses can often get an FSSAI registration. Larger businesses or those that specialise in kinds of packaged food may need a State or Central FSSAI license. Checking which FSSAI license is needed before starting a packaged food business is a step toward operating legally and responsibly.