FSSAI License & Compliance: What Every Food Business Must Know

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) requires every food business operator to obtain a license or registration. Whether you run a small home kitchen, a restaurant chain, or a food manufacturing unit, FSSAI compliance is mandatory. For CA firms, helping clients with FSSAI is a growing revenue stream.

Three Types of FSSAI Licensing

Basic Registration is for small businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs — street vendors, small retailers, and home-based businesses. State License is required for businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores, including medium-sized manufacturers, restaurants, and distributors. Central License is mandatory for large enterprises with turnover above ₹20 crores, importers, exporters, and businesses operating in multiple states.

Annual Return Filing

Every FSSAI license holder must file annual returns. Form D-1 (Annual Return) is due by May 31 every year. Form D-2 (Half-Yearly Return) is required for manufacturers. These returns include details about food categories handled, quantity manufactured or sold, and compliance with food safety standards.

Renewal Process

FSSAI licenses are typically valid for 1-5 years. Renewal must be initiated 30 days before expiry. Late renewal attracts a penalty of ₹100 per day. If the license expires without renewal, the business must cease operations until a new license is obtained.

Managing FSSAI with KaryiQ Practice

KaryiQ Practice's FSSAI module tracks license types, expiry dates, renewal reminders, annual returns, and compliance status for every client. Auto-status updates flag licenses approaching expiry, and the compliance calendar ensures return filing deadlines are never missed.