How can I get a Food Safety Certificate in India? With A Step-by-Step Guide
If you plan to establish a food business in India, you’ll need a food safety certificate. Be it a restaurant or café, obtaining this certificate is mandatory for all F&B business owners.
The FSSAI provides this certification to ensure the food quality standards are top-notch and the food has been quality checked. There are various steps to obtain this license or validation. These comprise document gathering, online application and fee payment.
Let’s dive deep into all the details of the food safety certificate application process!
Documents Required
The documents required for the FSSAI registration can vary according to the registration type. These consist of basic registration, central license and state license. However, the most essential documents include:
- A completed and signed Form B
- Bank account information
- Proof of premise possession
- NOC from the owner (for rented premises)
- Photo ID proof of business owners
- List of all foods manufactured by the company
- Proof of proprietorship
- Details of all business partners
- Water analysis report to be used for the food items
- Food Safety Management System certificate
Food Safety Certificate Application Process
To begin the certificate application, head to the official website of the Food Safety and Compliance System. Click on the Sign-Up button and enter your details, such as email address, mobile number and name. Create your account and log in to the portal using your credentials.
Then, click on the designated button for the registration certificate application. Follow these steps:
- Choose the state and restaurant option from the Business Group Head
- Select the option matching your business turnover
- Complete the details asked in the Form B application
- Enter the communication details carefully, like mobile number and email address
- Upload documents such as PAN card and business proof as instructed
- Pay the licensing fee (INR 100 for basic registration, INR 2,000 to 5,000 for state license and INR 7,500 for central licence)
When you complete these steps, the website will create a 17-digit reference number for the application. Secure this number along with the receipt for the future.
How to Know the Certificate Registration Status?
After applying, you’ll receive multiple emails and SMSs notifying you of the status. You can track the status by entering your application reference number on the FSSAI site.
At times, the status may show “Application Reverted”, where the authorities will send it back for modification. It’s important to address this and submit the application again within 30 days from the reverted date. Otherwise, your application may be subject to rejection.
If everything goes well, the authorities will approve your application, and the status will be ‘Registration Certificate Issued’.
Receiving the Certificate
The FSSAI department has 7 days from the date of application to accept or reject your request. The department will examine your application and the submitted documents carefully. Moreover, they might inspect your food business premises to ensure you meet the criteria.
After they are satisfied with your application, the authorities will issue the FSSAI registration certificate. It will have your registration number, email address, and photo. You can download it from the official website after receiving the notification.
In addition, the licence validity ranges from 1 to 5 years. You can renew it before the validity expires so that it doesn’t hamper your business progress.
Wrapping Up
The FSSAI certificate validates your food business and prevents you from any legal complications. Plus, when you display the certificate in your premises or products, it shows your credibility. As a result, customers trust your brand and keep coming back for the services.
Besides handling the necessary certification, if you need a solid restaurant management system, choose QPOS. You can efficiently operate it from various mobile devices to handle orders, inventory and billing better. Plus, it’s scalable and user-friendly!
