About the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous statutory body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. It was formed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which is a consolidating Act to lay down science-based standards for articles of food and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.

The Mandate and Vision of FSSAI

FSSAI's primary mandate is to protect and promote public health through the regulation and supervision of food safety. Its vision is to ensure safe, healthy, and wholesome food for all citizens of India. This is achieved by setting standards for food products, regulating food businesses, and promoting awareness about food safety practices among consumers. The authority plays a crucial role in transforming the food ecosystem in India, moving towards a system that is robust, transparent, and aligned with global best practices.

Key Functions and Responsibilities

The functions of FSSAI are multifaceted and cover the entire food chain, from farm to fork. Some of its key responsibilities include:

1. Setting Standards: Developing and notifying science-based standards for various food products, including additives, contaminants, pesticides, and other substances. These standards ensure that food products meet safety and quality benchmarks.


2. Regulation and Licensing: Framing regulations to govern food businesses, including licensing and registration procedures for manufacturers, processors, distributors, retailers, and importers. This ensures that all food businesses operate under a legal framework that prioritizes safety.


3. Surveillance and Monitoring: Conducting regular surveillance and monitoring activities to check compliance with food safety standards across the country. This involves inspections, sampling, and testing of food products.


4. Enforcement: Taking enforcement actions against non-compliant food businesses, which can range from penalties to prosecution, to ensure adherence to the FSS Act and its regulations.


5. Accreditation of Laboratories: Laying down procedures and guidelines for the accreditation of laboratories for food testing, ensuring that tests are conducted accurately and reliably.


6. Information Dissemination and Awareness: Providing information and creating awareness about food safety, nutrition, and healthy eating habits among consumers and food businesses. This includes initiatives like "Eat Right India."


7. Capacity Building: Promoting training and capacity building for food safety officers, food handlers, and other stakeholders to enhance their understanding and implementation of food safety practices.


8. International Cooperation: Collaborating with international organizations and regulatory bodies to align Indian food safety standards with global norms and facilitate trade.

Importance for Food Businesses

For any entity involved in the food business in India, compliance with FSSAI regulations is not merely a legal requirement but a fundamental aspect of responsible operation. Obtaining the appropriate FSSAI license or registration is mandatory, depending on the scale and type of business. This legal framework ensures accountability and helps build consumer trust. By adhering to FSSAI standards, businesses can:

• Ensure Consumer Safety: Protect their customers from foodborne illnesses and ensure the food they produce or sell is safe for consumption.


• Build Brand Reputation: Gain consumer confidence and enhance their brand image by demonstrating a commitment to food safety and quality.


• Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties, fines, and legal complications that arise from non-compliance.


• Market Access: Facilitate smoother operations and expansion within the Indian market and potentially for exports, as FSSAI standards are recognized.

Types of FSSAI Licenses/Registrations

FSSAI categorizes food businesses based on their turnover and operational scale, requiring different types of licenses or registrations:

• FSSAI Basic Registration: For petty food businesses with an annual turnover of up to INR 12 Lakhs. This typically includes hawkers, temporary stall holders, small retailers, and home-based food businesses.


• FSSAI State License: For medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between INR 12 Lakhs and INR 20 Crores, operating within a single state.


• FSSAI Central License: For large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding INR 20 Crores, or those operating in multiple states, importing/exporting food, or involved in specific categories like airports/seaports.