The FSSAI Registration Guide Every Amazon Seller Should Know
Amazon, the largest online retail platform globally, has become synonymous with e-commerce. As a Fortune 500 organization, it offers a vast array of consumable and non-consumable items, making it a one-stop destination for shoppers worldwide. Amazon’s success can be attributed to its diverse community of sellers, hailing from all corners of the globe. These sellers leverage the platform to promote their goods internationally. Starting as a humble bookstore, Amazon has grown exponentially, encompassing electronics, clothing, toys, household goods, and even groceries in its extensive catalog.
For those aspiring to launch a food-related online business on Amazon, acquiring a food license from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is essential. This license is crucial to list products on Amazon’s platform, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. If you sell on Amazon, your company name must be included in the FSSAI license. Additionally, if you plan to operate an Amazon fulfillment center or warehouse, you will need a separate FSSAI certificate for the warehouse address. With these regulatory measures, Amazon maintains its reputation as a trusted and reliable marketplace for shoppers and sellers alike.
Alonika Professionals will assist you with a seamless FSSAI registration process for your Amazon Seller.
Introduction
If you’re an Amazon seller looking to expand your reach and tap into the lucrative Indian market, understanding and obtaining FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) registration is crucial. The FSSAI is a regulatory body overseeing food safety and quality in India. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of obtaining FSSAI registration. We’ll also discuss its benefits and why it’s a necessity for every Amazon seller aiming to sell food products in India.
What is FSSAI, and Why Is It Critical for Amazon Sellers?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006. Its primary responsibility is to regulate and monitor the manufacturing, processing, packaging, distribution, and import of food products. It is to ensure their safety and quality. For Amazon sellers, especially those dealing with food products, obtaining FSSAI registration is legally mandatory and essential for gaining Indian consumers’ trust.
Understanding the Different Types of FSSAI Registrations
Before you begin the registration process, it’s crucial to determine the type of FSSAI registration required for your business. There are three main categories of FSSAI registration:
Basic FSSAI Registration (Form A)
This registration is suitable for small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of up to INR 12 lakh. It is ideal for home-based food operators and small-scale Amazon sellers with limited operations.
State FSSAI License (Form B)
Medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between INR 12 lakhs and INR 20 crores must obtain State FSSAI licenses. This category applies to sellers with more extensive business operations and who wish to expand within a specific state in India.
Central FSSAI License (Form C)
A Central FSSAI license is required for large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of over INR 20 crore. Amazon sellers with a nationwide presence or significant food-related activities must opt for this registration type.
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration
Who Needs FSSAI Registration?
Any entity involved in the manufacturing, processing, packaging, storing, or distributing of food products in India must obtain FSSAI registration. It includes food sellers on Amazon who offer food products for sale, homemade or packaged.
Exemption from FSSAI Registration
Certain businesses are exempt from FSSAI registration, such as petty food manufacturers, small-scale manufacturers, and sellers handling food products with minimal processing. However, verifying your exemption eligibility is essential based on your business’s nature and scale.
Know More: Faster Renewal of Food License
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
- Form A: This is the primary application form for FSSAI registration.
- Photo ID and address proof of the Food Business Operator (FBO), such as Aadhar card, Voter ID, Passport, etc.
- Proof of possession of premises where the food business is conducted (e.g., rent agreement, property papers, etc.).
- A detailed layout plan of the food processing unit (if applicable).
- List of food products to be manufactured or processed.
- A photo of the food product(s) (if possible).
- Partnership deed or certificate of incorporation, depending on the type of business entity.
- Certificate from the manufacturer (if the applicant is a re-packer, re-labeler, or re-brander of food products).
- Food safety management system plan, if required.
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the local municipal body or Panchayat.
- Analysis report of water to be used in food processing (if applicable).
- Source of milk or procurement plan for milk and milk products (if applicable).
- Declaration form signed by the FBO.
The FSSAI Registration Process
Determine eligibility: FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food businesses in India, including manufacturers, processors, retailers, distributors, and transporters. However, small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakh may opt for the FSSAI Basic Registration instead of a full FSSAI License.
Application submission: To begin the registration process, the applicant must complete the FSSAI application form. It can be done online through the Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal of FSSAI or manually by visiting the nearest FSSAI office.
Choose the type of license: Food businesses can apply for different types of licenses based on their scale of operation and turnover:
1- FSSAI Basic Registration: For small-scale businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakh.
2- State FSSAI License: For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover of over Rs. 12 lakh and up to Rs. 20 crore.
3- Central FSSAI License: For large-scale businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crore.
Documents and information required: The applicant must provide relevant documents such as identity proof, address proof, details of the food business, and a declaration of food safety management systems.
Inspection: A designated FSSAI official may conduct an inspection depending on the license type and the nature of the food business.
Processing and approval: The FSSAI authorities process the application. If everything is in order and complies with the food safety standards, the FSSAI registration or license is granted.
Display of the license: Once approved, the FSSAI registration or license number must be displayed prominently on the premises or products as required by the regulations.
Know More: Penalties Under Fssai
Tips for a Smooth FSSAI Registration Process
Seek Professional Assistance
Given the intricacies of the registration process, it’s advisable to seek guidance from professionals experienced in FSSAI regulations.
Ensure Compliance with Food Safety Standards
Comply with all FSSAI food safety and labeling standards to avoid registration delays or rejections.
Regularly Renew Your FSSAI License
Don’t forget to renew your FSSAI license before expiration to ensure continuous compliance.
Get FSSAI Registration Within 7 Days
Obtaining FSSAI registration is vital for Amazon sellers who want to venture into the Indian food market. It ensures legal compliance and instills trust and confidence in consumers regarding food safety and quality. With Alonika help, you can unlock significant opportunities and tap into the enormous potential of the Indian market by meeting food safety standards. To ensure a seamless and successful registration experience, we can assist you in renewing your FSSAI license on time.