FSSAI Export Certification for Food Businesses

Overview of FSSAI Export Certification

Having a central FSSAI license is mandatory for food businesses looking to export their products from India. This ensures that the exported food items meet the safety and quality standards required by international markets. The process of becoming a food exporter involves securing the necessary licenses, including a Central License and an IEC. The FSSAI export certification cost varies based on the size and nature of the business, typically involving an application fee and potential additional charges for inspections and documentation.

The FSSAI Export Certification requirements include submitting several documents, including proof of business registration, a detailed product list, manufacturing unit details, and compliance with FSSAI guidelines. The FSSAI guidelines for export outline the necessary steps and regulations, including maintaining hygienic production facilities, accurate record-keeping, and adhering to food safety management systems.

Introduction to FSSAI Export Certification

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) primarily focuses on maintaining food quality across the country. Every food business operator, including food exporters, should apply for an FSSAI license to make sure that their food products are of high quality and would not cause any damage to the health of people outside the country. All the export standards are set in place to protect the best interests of the people and maintain health decorum outside the country too.

The FoSCoS, initiated by the FSSAI, focuses on easy licensing and registration processes for food business operators. Through various international collaborations, FSSAI improves food standards and food export standards across the country. Food Exporters can easily file for food export license on the FoSCoS website.

The FSSAI Export Certification Process

In order to export your food products abroad you should have an active FSSAI licence. The licence varies greatly based on the type of business and the food products that you handle. The eligibility criteria for food licensing is outlined by the FSSAI. Here is a general outline of the same:

• Step-1: Apply on the FoSCoS
  Apply online on the FoSCoS website for a new FSSAI license. Provide the required information and forms for units that are 100% export-oriented or manufacturer-export, and upload all supporting files and pay the fee. An ARN will generate that can be used to track the progress of your application after a successful submission.
• Step-2: Inspection by FSSAI
  In accordance with FSS norms, authorities will reply to your application. The food safety office will conduct an on-site inspection and will provide you with a report.
• Step-3: Approval from FSSAI
  Authorisation for certification for the FSSAI license or registration will be given following the inspection and document verification conducted by the food safety officer designated by the FSSAI.
• Step-4: Issuance of license
  After all clearances, the FSSAI license for food export will be issued by the FSSAl central licensing body.

Eligibility Criteria for Export Certification

As per the eligibility criteria outlined by the FSSAI, any exporter, irrespective of the capacity of turnover, should have a central license. Exporters who fulfill the following eligibility criteria can apply for a central license:

• 100% EOU-FBO having certificate from ministry of commerce
• Manufacturer exporters can apply for export license
• Merchants and traders can apply for export license

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Any exporter and food business operator can apply for a FSSAI license directly on the FoSCoS website. Here is a complete outline of the same:

• Step 1: Visit the official FoSCoS website
• Step 2: Select the ‘license registration’ option and apply for a license or registration in the yellow menu box
• Step 3: Select the ‘apply for license class registration’ option
• Step 4: Select the state. Now a notice pops up. Make sure to give it a read
• Step 5: Read the group and choose the business kind and choose exporters under the manufacturer option
• Step 6: Under the exporters option, there are three kinds of businesses.
• Step 7: Select the mandatory field presented in Form B. Enter the communication details (contact details, mobile number, email ID, GST/PAN/CIN) in the relevant field.
• Step 8: Upload the relevant set of documents, pay the fee with more available, and submit the application. An ARN of 17 digits will be generated. You can use this for future reference and tracking.

Documentation Required for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Licenses the Following

The following documents have to be provided while applying for an FSSAI export license or a central license:

• Fully completed and duly signed Form B
• The layout plan of the processing unit shows all the dimensions
• List of directors, partners, proprietors, and other team members
• List of equipment and machinery along with the numbers and other criteria
• Director’s photo ID and address proof you should buy from the government authority
• Food category list that is planned to be manufactured or exported authority letter with the name and address of the nominated person. Analysis report of water and other ingredients proof of position of premises, including sale deed, rent deed, or electricity bill partnership deed
• Self-declaration in the case of proprietorship memorandum of association
• Copy of certificate obtained under the COOP Act 1861 NOC
• Copy of license from the manufacturer
• Food safety management system plan
• Source of raw materials
• Pesticide residue report
• NOC from municipality or local body
• Ministry of commerce certificate for 100%
• Supporting documents for proof of annual turnover
• NOC/PA document issued by FSSAI document.

Compliance and Quality Standards for Export

Food products which are meant for 100% export only, and are prepared as per standard/specification of the importing country. No part thereof shall be sold/supplied for domestic consumption. However, NOC shall be required.

Renewal and Maintenance of Export Certification

FSSAI central licence is mandatory for all export businesses. As per the law the granted Central licence is valid for a period of up to 5 years from the date of registration. Before the period of tenure comes to an end it is crucial to Renew the license to avoid cancellation. You can also manually renew the FSSAI licence on the FoSCoS official website. Here is a complete outline for the same:

• Login to the official portal and select the renewal option
• Now choose to apply for renewal of licence / registration
• Now a list of licences will appear
• Click on the proceed option against your licence.
• Now the Form B will open in the window
• Enter the required details and make the payment
• After the payment is done a 17 digit ARN number will be generated. You can use this for future reference.

Maintaining Certification Compliance

• It is necessary for applicants for FSSAI Exporter Licenses to specify if they deal exclusively in exports or in both the local and export markets
• The Import-Export Code (IEC) certificate is a prerequisite for conducting import-export business in India
• It is also a prerequisite for obtaining an FSSAI Exporter License
• For every location from which food goods are exported, a food business operator must apply separately for an FSSAI Exporter License
• The FBO is responsible for ensuring that the IEC certificate includes a list of all the premises for which an FSSAI license for export is needed
• An application for an FSSAI Central license for an exporter kind of business may be submitted for a maximum of five years, after which it may be renewed