Food License in Kerala
Any person who wants to start a food business in Kerala must obtain a food license from the local authorities. The license is required for both manufacturing and trading of food products.
The application for the license has to be made in the prescribed form and submitted to the office of the Designated Officer of the area in which the business is proposed to be set up. The application should be accompanied by certain documents, as specified in the form. These include an attested copy of the deed/lease agreement for the premises where the business is proposed to be carried out, a no-objection certificate from the local panchayat or municipality, as well as proof of payment of fees.
Once all these requirements are met, an inspection of the premises will be conducted by an officer from the Department of Health. If everything is found to be in order, the license will be granted. However, if there are any deficiencies, they will have to be rectified before the license can be issued.
The food license registration online is valid for a period of one year and has to be renewed annually.
Benefits of FSSAI License in Kerala
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex food safety regulator in India. It is responsible for laying down standards for food safety and hygiene, and for ensuring compliance with these standards by food businesses.
An FSSAI license is a legal document that is issued by the FSSAI to food businesses that meet the required standards of food safety and hygiene.
There are several benefits to having an FSSAI license in Kerala. These benefits include:
- Ensuring the safety of food: An FSSAI license ensures that food businesses in Kerala are following the required food safety standards. This helps to protect consumers from foodborne illness.
- Gaining access to government tenders: Many government tenders require food businesses to have an FSSAI license. This can give businesses an advantage when bidding for government contracts.
- Exporting food products: Some countries require food businesses to have an FSSAI license before they can export their food products. This can help businesses to expand their market reach.
- Building customer trust: An FSSAI license can help to build customer trust in a food business. Customers are more likely to trust businesses that have been certified by a government agency.
Checklist Requirements of an FSSAI License in Kerala
- The license holder must be a legal entity registered under the Companies Act, 2013 or any other law for the time being in force.
- The minimum net worth of the company must be ₹ 20 crores as on the date of application for renewal.
- The main object of the company must be food business as defined under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- The company must have a valid PAN and GSTIN number.
- The company must have a valid food business registration certificate from FSSAI.
- The company must have all requisite permissions and approvals from local authorities such as health department, pollution control board etc. as may be required for starting and carrying on food business in Kerala.
- The company should not have been debarred by FSSAI from carrying out food business in India.
- All directors and partners of the company should not have been convicted for any offence punishable with imprisonment for two years or more under any law for the time being in force during the last five years immediately preceding the date of application for renewal of license.
Types of Food Licenses
There are three types of food licenses:
- Basic Registration: This is the most basic type of license and is required for all food businesses.
- State Registration: This is a more comprehensive type of license that is required for food businesses that operate in multiple locations within a state.
- Central Registration: This is the highest level of license and is required for food businesses that operate across India.
The requirements for each type of license vary depending on the size and nature of the food business.
What Is the FSSAI License Number?
The FSSAI license number is a unique identification number that is issued to food businesses by the FSSAI. It is used to identify the food business and to track its compliance with food safety regulations.
The FSSAI license number is usually printed on the FSSAI license certificate. It is also available on the FSSAI website.
What Is the Renewal of the FSSAI License in Kerala?
The validity period of an FSSAI license in Kerala is one year. You need to renew your license before it expires.
The renewal process is similar to the application process. You need to submit the required documents and pay the renewal fee.
You will be required to fill out a form with the updated information. Once the form is completed, submit it along with the required documents. Make sure that you have all the necessary documents before starting the renewal process.
The required documents for FSSAI license renewal in Kerala are:
- Copy of the FSSAI license
- Self-declaration form
- Fee
Procedure for Renewal of FSSAI License in Kerala
To renew your FSSAI license in Kerala, you need to follow these steps:
1.Log in to the FSSAI portal using your username and password.
2.Click on the 'Renewal' tab.
3.Enter the details of your food business, such as the license number, the name of the business, and the address of the business.
4.Upload the required documents, such as a copy of your FSSAI license, a self-declaration form, and a fee.
5.Pay the FSSAI license renewal fee.
6.Once your application is approved, you will be issued a renewed FSSAI license.
Consequences of Non-renewal of FSSAI License in Kerala
If you fail to renew your FSSAI license in Kerala, you may face the following consequences:
- Your food business may be closed down by the FSSAI.
- You may be fined by the FSSAI.
- You may be imprisoned by the FSSAI.
Documents Required for Food License in Kerala
- Application form
- Passport-size photograph
- Photo identity proof
- Address proof
- Age proof
- Educational qualification certificate
- Experience certificate (if any)
- Food safety and hygiene certificate
- NOC from the local health authorities
- NOC from the local police authorities
Why Vakilsearch?
Choosing Vakilsearch means choosing a trusted partner for your FSSAI license needs. We are committed to simplifying the process, saving you time and effort, and ensuring that your business starts on the right legal footing. Let us help you secure your FSSAI license hassle-free.
1. Expert Guidance: Our team of experienced legal and regulatory experts is well-versed in the intricacies of FSSAI compliance. We provide you with expert guidance to ensure that your application is accurate and in full compliance with the latest regulations.
2. Convenience: We understand that your time is valuable. Our online platform streamlines the entire application process, making it convenient for you to apply for your FSSAI license from the comfort of your home or office.
3. Compliance Assurance: FSSAI regulations are stringent, and non-compliance can have severe consequences. With Vakilsearch, you can rest assured that your application will meet all the necessary requirements, reducing the risk of legal issues in the future.
4. Speedy Processing: We expedite the FSSAI license application process, helping you obtain your license quickly. This means you can start your food-related business operations without unnecessary delays.
5. Regulatory Updates: FSSAI regulations evolve over time. Our team stays updated with the latest changes and requirements, ensuring that your application remains compliant with the most current regulations.
6. Document Preparation: We assist you in preparing all the required documents, including the food safety management system plan, a critical component of the FSSAI application. Our attention to detail helps you present a strong application to the authorities.
7. Dedicated Support: We provide comprehensive customer support, addressing any questions or concerns you may have throughout the application process. You can rely on us for assistance at every step.