The standard of food is the main concern of the government of India. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India abbreviated as FSSAI is an autonomous organ, responsible for preserving and fostering food quality through the inspection of food safety. Its foremost concern is stated to food safety and regulation in our country. Therefore to maintain the standard of safety and quality of the food items Food Business Operator (FBO) must have an FSSAI License. Now, the renewal of food license after issuing is equally important within the given time frame so that the FBO’s continue to run their business without any legal interruption.
When to Renew FSSAI License?
A license permitted by FSSAI is valid unless specified by the authority, for a time of 1 to 5 years from the very date of the issue. The FBOs have the right to choose the term of registration as the instance may be; varying from 1 to 5 years the payment is decided accordingly. As the license given to the FBO’s is limited only for a no. of years, therefore every FBO is required to renew their FSSAI license before it expires. Any entreaty for the renewal of food license issued must be made at least 30 days before the date of expiry and any renewal entreaty filed beyond the mentioned period but before the expiry date has to pay a late fee of Rs. 100 per day of delay. If an FBO misses applying for the renewal of the FSSAI License then he may apply for a fresh license as per the case. The license shall continue to be in force till the orders are passed on the renewal entreaty but it should not be more than 30 days from the date of expiry of the license.
Procedure:
For the procedure first, you need to file Form A for basic FSSAI registration or Form B for central or state FSSAI license with the signature of the authorized signatory. You also need to attach a photo identity proof such as Aadhaar Card, Driving license, or Voter identity card. The application for renewal must have an audit report or a Food Safety Management plan or Certificate regarding food safety. The person’s form of nomination by the company must be filed in a prescribed form. When you have received the application or renewal, the authorities would examine the application and if necessary they would arrange for an inspection at the premises. If the authorities are satisfied after the inspection then they would grant a license for the particular business. The whole process does not take more than 60 days and if 60 days have passed and the owner has not received the license then he can resume his/her business without any notice.
Renewal of Food Safety Certificate:
It is a third-party verification that assures the food in the food supply chain to meet accepted food safety standards. It is based on the result of the test and inspection. Getting this certificate is voluntary. The advantage of having the certificate is a sign of high food quality which naturally attracts customers. The renewal of the certificate is essential and is renewed 3 years and in some cases such as with high-risk employers, every single year. It is done by retaking a course and then getting a new one which can also be taken online without any delay.
Apply for Food Licence here.