Food safety is a global concern, and every country has a regulatory body that oversees the safety and quality of food products. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex regulatory body that sets standards for food products and ensures their safety and quality. The FSSAI has made it mandatory for food importers and exporters to obtain an FSSAI license before importing or exporting food products. In this article, we will discuss the FSSAI license services for food importers and exporters.
Importance of FSSAI License for Food Importers and Exporters
Food importers and exporters play a crucial role in the food supply chain. They are responsible for sourcing and distributing food products across the world. And their products must meet the safety and quality standards set by the importing and exporting countries. The FSSAI license is a mandatory requirement for food importers and exporters in India.Aas it ensures that their products comply with the food safety and quality standards set by the FSSAI.
The FSSAI license for food importers and exporters is important because it helps in maintaining the safety and quality of food products. It ensures that the food products being imported or exported are safe for consumption and meet the quality standards set by the FSSAI. It also helps in preventing the entry of substandard or adulterated food products into the country. Which can pose a risk to public health.
Types of FSSAI Licenses for Food Importers and Exporters
Food importers and exporters can obtain two types of FSSAI licenses, depending on the nature and scale of their business:
- FSSAI Central License: The FSSAI central license is required for food importers and exporters who have a turnover of more than Rs. 30 crores per annum. It is issued by the central licensing authority of the FSSAI.
- FSSAI State License: The FSSAI state license is required for food importers and exporters who have a turnover of up to Rs. 30 crores per annum. It is issued by the state licensing authority of the FSSAI.
Documents Required for FSSAI License Application for Food Importers and Exporters
The following documents are required for the FSSAI license application for food importers and exporters:
- Form B: This is the application form for the FSSAI license, which can be downloaded from the FSSAI website.
- Import-export code (IEC): The IEC is a mandatory requirement for food importers and exporters. And it is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
- Food Safety Management Plan: The food safety management plan outlines the procedures and processes that the food importer. Or exporter will follow to ensure the safety and quality of their products.
- Proof of identity and address: The food importer or exporter must provide proof of their identity and address, such as a PAN card, Aadhaar card, or passport.
- Proof of ownership or tenancy: The food importer or exporter must provide proof of their ownership . Or tenancy of the premises where the food products will be stored.
- Other documents: Depending on the nature of the business. The food importer or exporter may be required to provide other documents such as a NOC from the municipal corporation. Aa certificate of analysis from a recognized laboratory, etc.
FSSAI License Renewal Process for Food Importers and Exporters
The FSSAI license for food importers and exporters is valid for a period of one to five years. Depending on the type of license obtained. It is important to renew the FSSAI license before its expiry to avoid any legal issues. The FSSAI license renewal process is the
