In today’s health-conscious world, food safety has never been more essential. One critical regulatory requirement for food businesses in India is obtaining an FSSAI registration or licence. While manufacturers and retailers often recognise this necessity, relabellers—businesses that repackage or sell food products under their own brand—sometimes overlook this crucial step. However, under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, relabellers are legally considered food business operators (FBOs) and are mandated to obtain FSSAI registration without delay.
What is FSSAI registration?
FSSAI registration is compulsory for anyone engaged in the food industry in India. It is authorised by FSSAI, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). A compliance authority under the control of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This registration confirms that a food business meets the guidelines and norms, ensuring the safety and quality of food items.
Types of FSSAI registration:
- FSSAI Basic Registration (FSSAI Licence Type A): Applicable for small-scale food businesses, including petty retailers, small-scale manufacturers, and food processors whose annual turnover does not exceed ₹12 lakhs. Basic registration is suitable for businesses with limited operations and low turnover.
- FSSAI State License (FSSAI License Type B): Applicable for medium-sized food businesses, including manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, and distributors. Required for businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- FSSAI Central License (FSSAI License Type C): Applicable for large-scale food businesses with operations across multiple states or with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.
Required documents for the FSSAI registration:
- Identity proof of the applicant.
- Provide proof of the business premises.
- Proof of the business constitution.
- Photograph of the applicant.
- Food safety plan.
- List of food products.
- NOC.
- Import and export code.
Process of FSSAI registration:
Step 1: Visit the official portal of FSSAI.
Step 2: Select the option of type of registration.
Step 3: Fill the application form like this:
- Name of business
- Name of applicant.
- Email ID and mobile number.
- Address of the business.
- Date of incorporation.
- Kind of business.
- Select the registration type.
- Registration tenure.
- State and district, pincode.
- Additional details about the businesses.
- Business proof.
Step 4: Enter the verification code.
Step 5: Submit the application.
Why Relabellers Must Obtain FSSAI Registration Without Delay
Legal Compliance:
FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food establishments in India. Operating without it can lead to inspections, fines, or even business closure.
Being registered for SMFEs ensures that they follow government food safety standards and stay away from legal issues.
Building Consumer Trust and Credibility:
By displaying the FSSAI licence number on food products, consumers can be confident that the food is safe and meets quality standards.
This trust is crucial for small and medium-sized businesses that aim to be on par with big brands.
Market Access and Business Growth:
Many retailers, online sales platforms, and even government procurement processes require FSSAI registration before purchasing food products.
Registered businesses can access vast business opportunities in both digital and physical markets.
Ensuring Food Safety and Quality:
Registration confirms that the business adheres to appropriate cleanliness and safety standards.
This helps reduce food-related health problems and enhances the reputation of the business.
Easy Renewal and Regulatory Updates:
The FSSAI portal makes it easy to renew licences and keeps you updated on changes in food safety regulations.
This keeps SMFEs compliant with regulations with less difficulty.
Competitive Advantage:
FSSAI registration is often a symbol of professional excellence.
This will help unregistered small and medium enterprises to stand out among their competitors.
Importance of FSSAI Registration for Relabellers:
- Relabellers play a crucial role in the food supply chain by marketing and selling food products under their own brand name.
- Although they may not be directly involved in food manufacturing, their role directly impacts food safety, labelling accuracy, and consumer trust.
- Hence, obtaining FSSAI registration is not optional but essential.
Types of FSSAI Registration for Relabellers
Relabellers can apply for different types of FSSAI registration depending on their business scale and turnover:
- Basic FSSAI Registration – For small-scale food businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakhs per year.
- State FSSAI License – For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores, operating within one state.
- Central FSSAI License – For large-scale businesses or those operating in multiple states, or dealing with import/export.
Each category requires specific documentation such as business registration proof, list of food items, NOC from the manufacturer, and label design samples.
Consequences of Operating Without FSSAI Registration
Delaying FSSAI registration or operating without it can have serious repercussions, such as:
- Monetary fines ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹10 lakhs depending on the severity of the violation.
- Suspension or cancellation of business operations.
- Product seizure or recall from the market.
- Permanent damage to brand reputation.
- Legal prosecution in extreme cases.
The cost of compliance is minimal compared to the losses incurred due to non-compliance.
Conclusion:
The FSSAI registration is essential for all food relabellers. And the process of FSSAI registration is very simple and easy. As businesses that repackage or rebrand food products, relabellers hold responsibility for ensuring food safety, accurate labelling, and compliance with national standards. Delaying FSSAI registration can lead to serious consequences, including legal penalties, loss of consumer trust, and restrictions on market access. Therefore, relabellers must prioritise FSSAI registration without delay to operate responsibly, competitively, and lawfully in the Indian food market.
