Food and Safety License in Kerala

Table of Contents

Food and Safety License in Kerala: Requirements & Procedures

If you are involved in the food industry in Kerala, it is important to understand the significance of obtaining a food safety license. A food safety license or FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food-related businesses in India. It ensures that the food products being delivered to customers are safe and meet the necessary quality standards.

In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about FSSAI registration in Kerala, including its significance and the different types of registrations available. We will also cover the eligibility criteria for obtaining a food safety license, the requirements for different businesses, and obtaining an FSSAI registration.

Additionally, we will dive into the role of FSSAI licenses in online food delivery services and special food products while also highlighting penalties for not having an FSSAI license.

Understanding the Significance of Food Safety License in Kerala

Compliance with legal standards is ensured through a food safety license in Kerala. It depicts dedication to food safety and consumer welfare while establishing trust with consumers and business partners.

FSSAI registration is essential for the legal operation of food businesses in Kerala, assuring the quality and safety of food products to the public.

This builds credibility and trust in the market, enhancing opportunities for partnership firms and private limited companies. Municipality and panchayath licenses are vital for the commercial use of food licenses.

Importance of FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration is essential for all food businesses, ensuring the safety and quality of food products in the market.
It enhances consumer confidence and signifies adherence to food safety standards, making it a legal requirement for food business operators in Kerala.
By obtaining FSSAI registration, food businesses showcase their commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety, which is crucial for consumer well-being and trust in the products they purchase.

Role of Food Safety License in Business Legality

The food safety license plays a crucial role in ensuring the legal operation of food businesses. It signifies adherence to the Food Safety and Standards Act, validating the business’s commitment to food safety and quality.

This license is essential for the manufacturing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products, ensuring that the business operates within the legal framework. Ultimately, it demonstrates the business’s compliance with food safety regulations and standards, promoting consumer well-being and trust.

Types of FSSAI Registrations in Kerala

Different types of food businesses in Kerala require specific FSSAI registrations.
The basic registration is suitable for small food businesses.
Mid-sized ones opt for state license registrations.
Larger food businesses obtain central FSSAI licenses.
These registrations are determined by the annual turnover of the business and are essential for compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Each type signifies the adherence to food safety standards and legal operation within the market.

Basic FSSAI Registration

Suitable for small food businesses, basic FSSAI registration is a simplified process applicable to those with an annual turnover below a certain limit. The process is less complex and more affordable, serving as the first step towards legalizing small food businesses in Kerala.

This registration is vital for ensuring compliance with the standard authority of India and is crucial for the manufacturing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products in partnership firms, private limited companies, and various other business entities.

State FSSAI License Registration

State FSSAI license registration caters to food businesses with moderate annual turnover, ensuring compliance with state-specific regulations. This registration is essential for the legality of mid-sized food businesses operating within a specific state or union territory.

The process involves engaging with state-level authorities to obtain approval and ensure adherence to the necessary standards, such as the FSSAI state license

Central FSSAI License Registration

Central FSSAI license registration, also known as FSSAI Central License, is mandatory for large food businesses, ensuring compliance with national food safety standards.

This type of registration applies to food businesses with extensive retail facilities or a nationwide presence, involving central government agencies for compliance and approval.

It is a prerequisite for large-scale food manufacturing, storage, and distribution businesses, emphasizing adherence to national food safety regulations and standards.

Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining a Food Safety License

Individual business owners are required to register as food business operators.
Restaurants and hotels must obtain food safety licenses for their premises.
The type of food safety license needed is determined by the nature of the business and the establishment’s annual turnover.
Different types of food products have specific criteria for obtaining a food safety license.
It is important to ensure compliance with the standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.

For Individual Business Owners

Individual business owners are required to register as food business operators (FBOs), especially if they are involved in food manufacturing, storage, and distribution. Compliance with food safety standards is essential for small business operators.

Individual business owners must ensure that their registration details align with the nature of their business and provide clarity on the food items and storage units.

For Restaurants and Hotels

Restaurants and hotels in Kerala must ensure compliance with food safety regulations by obtaining the necessary licenses for their premises.

This is crucial to guarantee the quality and safety of the food products served. Proper storage and handling of food items within the premises are also essential.

The registration process for the food premises requires oversight from the concerned person to meet the compliance requirements for running restaurants’ and hotels’ food businesses effectively

For Food Manufacturing Companies

Meeting the essential food safety standards is imperative for food manufacturing companies. The FSSAI registration is vital to ensure the safety and quality of food products.

Compliance with FSSAI regulations is mandatory for all food manufacturing businesses, helping to build trust with consumers. Additionally, FSSAI registration guarantees the legality of food manufacturing operations, instilling confidence in both consumers and regulatory authorities.

FSSAI Registration Requirements for Different Businesses

Different businesses have unique FSSAI registration requirements, varying based on their nature.
Understanding these requirements is crucial to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
From partnership firms to private limited companies, each business type has specific requirements as per the standard authority of India.
FSSAI basic registration, state license, or central license may be necessary, depending on the nature of the business, such as a dairy factory, department store, or mineral water plant.
Compliance with these requirements is essential for the legality of commercial food operations.

FSSAI Registration for Online Home Kitchens

Online home kitchens must comply with FSSAI registration procedures, ensuring food safety and legal operation. Obtaining FSSAI registration enhances consumer confidence and trust. The registration is vital for maintaining food safety standards and regulatory compliance.

FSSAI registration for online home kitchens is essential for small-scale food businesses. It ensures the legality and commercial use of food products, emphasizing the importance of partnership firm registrations and municipality licenses

FSSAI Registration for Food Vending Machines

Ensuring the safety and quality of food products dispensed by vending machines, FSSAI registration is mandatory for food vending machine operators in Kerala. Compliance with FSSAI registration procedures is crucial, as food vending machine businesses need to adhere to these requirements.

Obtaining FSSAI registration is a vital step for ensuring the legality and standard authority of food products dispensed through vending machines.

FSSAI Registration for Supermarkets

Supermarkets seeking to sell food products legally must undergo FSSAI registration to uphold food safety standards. Compliance with registration procedures is crucial for handling food items and building consumer trust in product safety.

Adhering to FSSAI requirements is vital for supermarkets, ensuring the legal operation and maintaining consumer confidence in the safety and quality of food products provided.

FSSAI Registration for Restaurants

Restaurants must undergo FSSAI registration to ensure food safety and quality, enhancing consumer confidence. Compliance with FSSAI registration requirements is vital for the legality and operation of restaurants.

This registration is crucial for restaurants to comply with food safety standards and maintain consumer trust. Adhering to FSSAI registration procedures is essential for the operational and legal aspects of restaurant businesses, ensuring the safety and quality of food served.

FSSAI Registration for Food Marketing Companies

Food marketing companies must ensure FSSAI registration to uphold food safety standards and operate legally. Compliance with FSSAI procedures is crucial for the credibility and the safety of marketed food products.

Whether a partnership firm, a private limited company, or a municipality license holder, FSSAI registration is essential for all. Adhering to FSSAI registration requirements is vital, ensuring consumer trust and maintaining high food quality standards.

The FSSAI Registration Process in Kerala

The following is the procedure to apply for an FSSAI State License or FSSAI Basic Registration:

Visit the FoSCoS website.
On the main page, select the ‘Apply License/Registration’ option.
Choose “Kerala” as the state from the drop-down menu.
Select the choice that corresponds to the type of food business, such as Manufacturer, Trade/Retail, or Food Services.
Next, select the relevant choice from the list of options below.
Click “Proceed” after selecting either production capacity or turnover.
Either select “Click here to apply for State License for all businesses” or “Click here to apply for Registration for all businesses.”
After completing Forms A and B and uploading the necessary files, paying, and clicking “Submit,”
After the registration application form is turned in, the food facility and application will be inspected by the appropriate authorities. When all of the FSS Act’s requirements are satisfied, they will issue an FSSAI Basic Registration or FSSAI State License.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

The following list of documents must be provided in order to receive an FSSAI Basic Registration:

Talk about the business proof.
The FBO’s photo identity proof.
Certificate of Business Constitution.
Evidence of owning the company space.
A list of prepared or produced food items.
Details on the nature of the business.

The following are the documents that must be provided to receive an FSSAI state license:

The applicant filled up and signed Form B.
The processing unit’s layout.
Talk about the business proof.
Certificate of Business Constitution.
Evidence of owning the company space.
List of directors, partners, or executive members of the trust or society, together with their complete address and phone number.
The name, model number, installed capacity, and horsepower used for each piece of machinery and equipment are listed.
Proof of identity and address for the directors, partners, owners, or authorized signatories.
a list of the food kinds that should be produced or processed.
Water analysis report from a reputable public health laboratory for use in food.
An authority letter containing the name and address of the responsible party was nominated by the manufacturer.
NOC from the producer.
Food safety management system plan or certificate.

Step-by-step Process of FSSAI Registration

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of food products in India. FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food business operators (FBOs) involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products. Here is a step-by-step process for FSSAI registration:

Determine the Type of FSSAI Registration:
- Based on the size and nature of your food business, you need to determine the type of FSSAI registration required. There are three types: Basic Registration, State License, and Central License.
Document Preparation:
- Prepare the necessary documents based on the type of registration. Common documents include:
  - Identity and address proof of the business owner/partners/directors.
  - Proof of possession of premises (e.g., rental agreement or electricity bill).
  - List of food products to be handled.
  - Partnership deed or certificate of incorporation.
  - Food safety management system plan.
Online Application:
- Visit the official FSSAI website and create a user account.
- Log in and select the type of registration/license you need.
- Fill in the online application form with accurate information.
Submission of Application:
- Submit the completed application form along with the required documents to the designated authority.
Application Verification:
- The FSSAI authority will review the application and may ask for additional information if required.
Inspection (if applicable):
- For State and Central licenses, an inspection of the premises may be conducted by the Food Safety Officer.
Generate FSSAI License Number:
- Once the application is approved, the FSSAI license number will be generated.
Issuance of License:
- The FSSAI license will be issued in physical or electronic form, as applicable.
Display of License:
- The FSSAI license must be prominently displayed at the business premises.
Renewal of License:
- Ensure timely renewal of the FSSAI license. Licenses are typically valid for 1 to 5 years.
Compliance with FSSAI Regulations:
- Adhere to the food safety and labeling regulations specified by FSSAI.

Role of FSSAI License in Online Food Delivery Services

Online food delivery platforms must have FSSAI registration to ensure safe and hygienic services, complying with food safety standards. This mandatory license instills consumer trust and legal operation for online food delivery services.

By obtaining FSSAI registration, these platforms signify their commitment to providing quality food products while adhering to the regulations set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

FSSAI Registrations for Swiggy, Zomato, Uber Eats

Swiggy, Zomato, and Uber Eats are mandated to obtain separate FSSAI registrations, ensuring compliance with food safety standards on their platforms.

Each delivery service must have an individual FSSAI registration, subject to annual turnover. Maintaining valid FSSAI registrations is crucial for these online food delivery providers, signifying their commitment to food safety and legality.

FSSAI Registration for Special Food Products

Special food products, such as organic, gluten-free, or health supplements, necessitate FSSAI registration to uphold quality and safety standards. Detailed product information is involved in the FSSAI registration process for special food items, and compliance is vital for manufacturers.

Ensuring the safety of these products, the FSSAI registration is crucial for maintaining consumer confidence and meeting regulatory requirements.

FSSAI Registration for Fish Retailers & Exporters

Fish retailers and exporters are required to obtain FSSAI registration to ensure the quality and safety of their products, whether for local sale or export. This mandatory registration process involves submitting specific documents to comply with FSSAI guidelines.

Valid FSSAI registration is essential for maintaining business legality and food safety standards. Essentially, FSSAI registration for fish retailers and exporters is a vital step in ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.

FSSAI Registration for Agricultural Products

Agricultural product manufacturers must obtain FSSAI registration to ensure food safety and quality. Compliance with FSSAI registration regulations is essential for agricultural product suppliers.

The process involves detailed product information to guarantee the safety of agricultural food items. FSSAI registration is crucial for maintaining the standards of agricultural products and assuring consumer safety.

FSSAI Registration for Chips Manufacturers & Coconut Oil Manufacturers

Chips manufacturers and coconut oil producers are required to obtain FSSAI registration and ensure the safety and quality of their products. There are different types of chips available in the market in different packaging, making it important for manufacturers to comply with FSSAI guidelines.

They must display their FSSAI license number, complying with the standards authority of India guidelines. Without valid FSSAI registration, manufacturers of these products may face legal consequences.

FSSAI Registration for Various Food Outlets

Various food outlets are mandated to obtain FSSAI registration in compliance with food safety regulations. The registration process differs based on the outlet’s annual turnover and the types of food items sold, including canteen packing.

Licensing authorities, including the central government, oversee the registration process, necessitating critical considerations for food premises, storage units, and control procedures.

FSSAI Registration for Pizza & Sandwich Outlets

Pizza and sandwich outlets necessitate FSSAI registration to uphold food safety standards, encompassing details about the manufacturing unit and license number of the business operator.

Submission of documents such as the company incorporation certificate is involved in the registration process, with a pivotal role played by concerned persons like the food safety officer.

FSSAI Registration for Coffee Shops & Juice Shops

To meet the food safety standards, coffee and juice shops must acquire FSSAI registration for their coffee business. The process involves furnishing company letterhead and trade license details.

Municipal corporations oversee the registration, considering the end of the period, i.e., code, and eligible food business operators. Diverse chips, dairy products, and delivery services impact the applicable FSSAI license category.

FSSAI Registration for Bar & Beverages

Bars and beverage establishments are required to obtain FSSAI registration to comply with food safety standards. The process involves specifying the food item class served and disclosing the business’s annual turnover.

Municipal corporations and local bodies oversee the registration, and the license category is influenced by expansive retail facilities, deep inner goyal, and various food products. Adhering to these regulations is crucial for maintaining food safety and legality in bar and beverage operations.

FSSAI Registration for Packaged Drinking Water Companies

Packaged drinking water companies in Kerala must secure FSSAI registration to uphold food safety standards.

The registration process entails furnishing details of the manufacturing unit and the business operator’s license number.

Submission of documents like the company incorporation certificate is necessary for FSSAI registration.

The process is overseen by licensing authorities, including the concerned person and food safety officer.

Furthermore, different food products, dairy products, and cold storage units impact the required FSSAI license category and nature of business.

Are there any penalties for not having a Food Safety License in Kerala?

Operating a food business without a proper safety license in Kerala can result in penalties imposed by the Indian Standards Authority.
Non-compliance with food safety regulations may lead to legal actions, fines, and even closure of the business.
Understanding the repercussions is crucial for all food operators

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a Food Safety License in Kerala is crucial for ensuring the safety and legality of your food business. The FSSAI registration process may vary depending on the type of business, but the requirements and procedures are well-defined. Whether you are running a restaurant, online food delivery service, manufacturing company, or even an educational institution or event management company, it is important to comply with the FSSAI regulations. Failure to do so can result in penalties and legal consequences.

By obtaining the necessary Food Safety License, you not only ensure the health and safety of your customers but also build trust and credibility for your business. So, make sure to follow the eligibility criteria, gather the required documents, and follow the step-by-step process to obtain your Food Safety License in Kerala.