FSSAI LICENSE RENEWAL | RENEW FOOD LICENSE CERTIFICATE

FSSAI Renewal

Renewing your Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is crucial for operating legally and maintaining food safety standards. A valid license ensures that your food business continues to comply with regulations and protects your customers.  FSSAI license renewal involves several steps and requirements to maintain the safety and quality of food products in the market.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has made it mandatory for all food-related businesses in India to have a valid FSSAI license in order to guarantee the safety and hygiene of food articles. The food licence renewal has a specific period of validity ranging from one year to five years, depending on the type of license applied for during the first application process. It is very important to renew the license on time to avoid legal disputes or-business problems due to non-compliance with the rules and regulations related to food articles.

Online FSSAI Renewal Procedure

To conduct FSSAI renewal online, you must follow the steps below:

• Visit the official FSSAI registration portal, and log in using your FSSAI license or Certificate number and password.
• Click on the ‘renewal’ option, and select the ‘Apply for Renewal of license/registration’ option.
• A list of issued FSSAI licenses will appear. Then click on ‘proceed’ to get your registration done (a renewal can be processed only after the expiration of the existing license, and it has passed 120 days). 
• Form A or Form B will appear, which needs to be filled out and cross-verified by the user before final submission.
• Upload required documents and pay applicable renewal fees. 
• After successful completion, a receipt with the new 17-digit registration number will be issued.
• The FBOs can track the application by visiting the FSSAI registration portal and enetreing new new 17-digit registration number.

Offline FSSAI Renewal and Registration Procedure

To conduct food licence renewal online, you must follow the steps below:

• Visit the food safety officer-in-charge involved with your location, and obtain Form A or Form B, in accordance with your annual turnover. 
• You must fill out Form A or Form B as per the requirement.
• Attach a self-attested declaration and other required documents.
• Submit the form with applicable fees to the concerned authority.
• After receiving your application authority will review and verify your application.
• They may even inspect the food premises to cross-verify if the FBO has disclosed and submitted accurate information.
• After being satisfied with the information and accuracy, the inspection officer will pass the report to the FSSAI authorities
• The authority will issue or renew the license (within 60 days) after verifying if the applicant meets the FSS Act.

Eligibility for FSSAI License Renewal:

• Businesses that have obtained a food licence renewal and wish to continue operating in the food industry must renew their licenses before the expiry date.
• Both existing FSSAI license holders and new applicants can apply for renewal of their licenses.
• The eligibility criteria for FSSAI license renewal include compliance with food safety standards, adherence to labeling and packaging regulations, and maintaining hygiene and sanitation standards in food handling and processing facilities.

Importance of Timely FSSAI Renewal:

FSSAI License Renewal in time is important for the smooth operation of your food business. Non-renewal before the date of expiration may attract a fine, penalty, or even suspension and closure of operation. Timely renewal not only keeps the business running legally but also shows commitment to food safety and quality, thereby helping consumers trust your brand and creating a better brand reputation in the market.

Documents Needed for Food License Renewal Process 

• Renewal application form
• Existing FSSAI license copy
• Updated Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan
• Additional documents for any business changes

Factors to Consider During the FSSAI License Renewal 

• Digital Renewal: Applications can be made online through the FoSCoS system, with real-time tracking of status.
• Early Renewal: This helps in preventing delay and ensuring proper compliance as well as preventing operational disruptions.
• Updating Business Information: Add new locations, types of cuisine, or changes in operation.
• FSMS Integration: Improve food safety measures and get ready for inspections.
• Reminders and Notifications: Remind clients about renewing prior to expiry dates to avoid last-minute problems with compliance.

Validity of FSSAI license 

The validity of a Food Safety and Security Authority of India (FSSAI) license remains valid for a period of 1 to 5 years from the date of issuance. Food Business Operators (FBOs) need to initiate the renewal process at least 30 days before the expiration. If the food licence renewal is not completed within 30-days, a late fine of Rs. 100 per day will be charged, including renewal fees. Moreover, delays in renewal beyond expiration can lead to further penalties:

• Within 90 days: 3 times the standard annual charges.
• Between 91 and 180 days: 5 times the standard annual charge.

Penalties for Late FSSAI Renewal

• Fines and penalties for doing business without an active license.
• Suspension or closure of the business.
• The confiscation of non-complying foodst
• Loss of Reputation and Trust

Benefits of FSSAI or Food Licence Renewal 

Some of the benefits of FSSAI renewal are as follows:

• Ensure continuous compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, helping FBOs to avoid penalties.
• Supports smooth operations, thus preventing interruptions that could hinder business reputation. 
• Helps to enter new markets, securing contracts with large retailers.
• Can support to remain updated with the latest food safety standards and regulations, resulting in improved product quality and safety.