All About FoSCoS FSSAI State License – Benefits, Documents and Process

All About FoSCoS FSSAI State License – Benefits, Documents and Process. Starting a food business in India requires compliance with various food safety regulations. One of the most important steps is obtaining an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license. The FSSAI, through the Food Safety Compliance System (FOSCOS), issues different types of licenses depending on the scale of operation and turnover. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the FOSCOS FSSAI State License, its benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process.
Benefits of Obtaining an FOSCOS FSSAI State License
Having an FOSCOS FSSAI State License is essential for food businesses to operate legally and ensure food safety. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Legal Compliance: Ensures that your food business operates within the legal framework set by the government.
2. Consumer Trust: Increases trust among consumers by certifying that your food products are safe and high-quality.
3. Market Expansion: Enables your business to grow within the state and potentially expand to new markets.
4. Quality Assurance: Ensures that food safety and hygiene standards are met.
5. Competitive Edge: Gives your business an advantage over competitors who do not have an FSSAI license.
6. Support and Guidance: The FSSAI provides regular updates and assistance in complying with food safety regulations.
7. Reduced Risks: Minimizes the risk of legal issues and food-related health hazards.
Who Requires an FOSCOS FSSAI State License?
Every food business operator (FBO) must obtain an FSSAI license. The FOSCOS FSSAI State License is required for:
-Medium-sized food businesses with a turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore.
-Transporters engaged in food transportation with a turnover of up to Rs. 30 crore.
-Food processing units dealing with cereals, grains, and pulses.
-Food businesses producing non-milk and non-meat products up to 101 Kgs/2MT liters per day.
-Dairy units handling 501–50,000 liters of milk per day or 2.5–2,500 MT of milk solids per annum.
Slaughterhouses processing:
-Large animals: 3 to 50 per day
-Small animals: 11 to 150 per day
-Poultry birds: 51 to 1000 per day
Documents Required for FOSCOS FSSAI State License
The required documents depend on the type of business structure. Below are the key documents:
For Companies (Pvt Ltd, Public Ltd, LLP)
-Certificate of Incorporation
-MOA & AOA (Memorandum and Articles of Association)
-PAN Card
-List of Directors/Partners
-Board Resolution for FSSAI application
-Form IX: Nomination Form
-List of food products handled
-Address proof (Rent Agreement/Sale Deed + Electricity Bill)
For Proprietorship Firms
-Proprietor’s photo ID (PAN, Aadhaar, Voter ID)
-List of food products
-Address proof (Electricity Bill + Rent Agreement if applicable)
-Business location details
For Partnership Firms
-Registration Certificate
-Partnership Deed
-PAN Card of the firm
-List of partners
-Address proof
For Trusts and Societies
-Registration Certificate
-Memorandum of Society
-PAN Card
-List of Governing Body Members
-Copy of Resolution
-Address proof
Additional Documents for Manufacturing Units
-Factory layout plan
-List of machinery & equipment
-Water testing report (if water is used as an ingredient)
-Recall Plan (strategy for product recall if required)
-Food safety management plan
How to Apply for an FOSCOS FSSAI State License?
The FOSCOS (Food Safety Compliance System) is the online portal for obtaining an FSSAI license. The application process includes the following steps:
Step 1: Prepare Documents and Fill Application
-Collect all required documents based on your business type.
-Fill Form B on the FOSCOS portal.
-Pay the prescribed license fee online.
Step 2: Scrutiny of Application
-FSSAI officials review the application and submitted documents.
-If required, additional documents may be requested.
Step 3: Inspection of Business Premises
-FSSAI may conduct an inspection to verify compliance with food safety norms.
Step 4: Issuance of FOSCOS FSSAI State License
-If all requirements are met, the license is granted.
-In case of non-compliance, the application may be rejected.
Step 5: Display Your FSSAI License
-The license must be displayed prominently at the business location.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating a food business without an FOSCOS FSSAI State License can result in severe penalties:
-Fine up to Rs. 10 lakh
-Imprisonment up to 6 months
-Additional penalties for selling unsafe food products
FOSCOS FSSAI State License Renewal & Validity
-The FSSAI State License is valid for 1 to 5 years and can be renewed accordingly.
-License renewal should be done at least 180 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
-Late renewal incurs penalties:

3x the license fee within the first 90 days after expiry

5x the license fee between 91-180 days after expiry

If not renewed within 180 days, the license is cancelled, and operations must be stopped immediately.
Get Your FOSCOS FSSAI State License with Compliance Calendar LLP
Ensuring food safety compliance can be challenging, but Compliance Calendar LLP makes it easy. Our experts assist with FOSCOS FSSAI License applications, document preparation, renewal, and compliance guidance. Contact us today to secure your FOSCOS FSSAI State License hassle-free!
FAQs
Q1. What is an FSSAI State License under FOSCOS?
Ans. An FSSAI State License is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for food businesses with an annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore. It is obtained through the FSSAI's Food Safety Compliance System (FOSCOS) portal and is required for businesses operating at a state level.
Q2. Who needs an FSSAI State License?
Ans. Businesses such as medium-sized food manufacturers, storage units, transporters, wholesalers, distributors, and food service establishments like restaurants and catering services with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 12 lakh but less than Rs. 20 crore need an FSSAI State License.
Q3. How can I apply for an FSSAI State License through FOSCOS?
Ans. You can apply for an FSSAI State License through the FOSCOS portal by:
-Registering on foscos.fssai.gov.in.
-Selecting the 'State License' option based on eligibility.
-Filling out the application form (Form B).
-Uploading required documents.
-Paying the applicable fee and submitting the application.
-Awaiting approval from the state food safety department.
Q4. What documents are required for an FSSAI State License?
Ans. The documents required for an FSSAI State License include:
-Identity and address proof of the business owner.
-Business incorporation certificate (if applicable).
-Food safety management system (FSMS) plan.
-Premises layout plan.
-List of food products to be manufactured or sold.
-Water testing report (if applicable).
-No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local municipality (if required).
Q5. What is the validity period of an FSSAI State License?
Ans. The FSSAI State License is valid for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on the duration selected at the time of application. Renewal must be done before the expiry date through the FOSCOS portal.
Q6. How much does it cost to obtain an FSSAI State License?
Ans. The government fee for an FSSAI State License varies between Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 per year, depending on the nature of the business. Additional costs may include professional service fees if you hire a consultant.
Q7. What happens if I operate a food business without an FSSAI State License?
Ans. Operating without an FSSAI license is a legal offense under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It may result in penalties of up to Rs. 5 lakh and imprisonment, depending on the severity of non-compliance.
Q8. How can I renew my FSSAI State License?
Ans. You can renew your FSSAI State License through the FOSCOS portal by:
-Logging into your FOSCOS account.
-Selecting ‘License Renewal’ under the dashboard.
-Updating any required details.
-Uploading updated documents, if necessary.
-Paying the renewal fee and submitting the application before the expiry date.

Starting a food business in India requires compliance with various food safety regulations. One of the most important steps is obtaining an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license. The FSSAI, through the Food Safety Compliance System (FOSCOS), issues different types of licenses depending on the scale of operation and turnover. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the FOSCOS FSSAI State License, its benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process.

Benefits of Obtaining an FOSCOS FSSAI State License

Having an FOSCOS FSSAI State License is essential for food businesses to operate legally and ensure food safety. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Legal Compliance: Ensures that your food business operates within the legal framework set by the government.

2. Consumer Trust: Increases trust among consumers by certifying that your food products are safe and high-quality.

3. Market Expansion: Enables your business to grow within the state and potentially expand to new markets.

4. Quality Assurance: Ensures that food safety and hygiene standards are met.

5. Competitive Edge: Gives your business an advantage over competitors who do not have an FSSAI license.

6. Support and Guidance: The FSSAI provides regular updates and assistance in complying with food safety regulations.

7. Reduced Risks: Minimizes the risk of legal issues and food-related health hazards.

Who Requires an FOSCOS FSSAI State License?

Every food business operator (FBO) must obtain an FSSAI license. The FOSCOS FSSAI State License is required for:

-Medium-sized food businesses with a turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore.

-Transporters engaged in food transportation with a turnover of up to Rs. 30 crore.

-Food processing units dealing with cereals, grains, and pulses.

-Food businesses producing non-milk and non-meat products up to 101 Kgs/2MT liters per day.

-Dairy units handling 501–50,000 liters of milk per day or 2.5–2,500 MT of milk solids per annum.

Slaughterhouses processing:

-Large animals: 3 to 50 per day

-Small animals: 11 to 150 per day

-Poultry birds: 51 to 1000 per day

Documents Required for FOSCOS FSSAI State License

The required documents depend on the type of business structure. Below are the key documents:

For Companies (Pvt Ltd, Public Ltd, LLP)

-Certificate of Incorporation

-MOA & AOA (Memorandum and Articles of Association)

-PAN Card

-List of Directors/Partners

-Board Resolution for FSSAI application

-Form IX: Nomination Form

-List of food products handled

-Address proof (Rent Agreement/Sale Deed + Electricity Bill)

For Proprietorship Firms

-Proprietor’s photo ID (PAN, Aadhaar, Voter ID)

-List of food products

-Address proof (Electricity Bill + Rent Agreement if applicable)

-Business location details

For Partnership Firms

-Registration Certificate

-Partnership Deed

-PAN Card of the firm

-List of partners

-Address proof

For Trusts and Societies

-Registration Certificate

-Memorandum of Society

-PAN Card

-List of Governing Body Members

-Copy of Resolution

-Address proof

Additional Documents for Manufacturing Units

-Factory layout plan

-List of machinery & equipment

-Water testing report (if water is used as an ingredient)

-Recall Plan (strategy for product recall if required)

-Food safety management plan

How to Apply for an FOSCOS FSSAI State License?

The FOSCOS (Food Safety Compliance System) is the online portal for obtaining an FSSAI license. The application process includes the following steps:

Step 1: Prepare Documents and Fill Application

-Collect all required documents based on your business type.

-Fill Form B on the FOSCOS portal.

-Pay the prescribed license fee online.

Step 2: Scrutiny of Application

-FSSAI officials review the application and submitted documents.

-If required, additional documents may be requested.

Step 3: Inspection of Business Premises

-FSSAI may conduct an inspection to verify compliance with food safety norms.

Step 4: Issuance of FOSCOS FSSAI State License

-If all requirements are met, the license is granted.

-In case of non-compliance, the application may be rejected.

Step 5: Display Your FSSAI License

-The license must be displayed prominently at the business location.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating a food business without an FOSCOS FSSAI State License can result in severe penalties:

-Fine up to Rs. 10 lakh

-Imprisonment up to 6 months

-Additional penalties for selling unsafe food products

FOSCOS FSSAI State License Renewal & Validity

-The FSSAI State License is valid for 1 to 5 years and can be renewed accordingly.

-License renewal should be done at least 180 days before expiry to avoid penalties.

-Late renewal incurs penalties:

3x the license fee within the first 90 days after expiry
5x the license fee between 91-180 days after expiry

If not renewed within 180 days, the license is cancelled, and operations must be stopped immediately.

Get Your FOSCOS FSSAI State License with Compliance Calendar LLP

Ensuring food safety compliance can be challenging, but Compliance Calendar LLP makes it easy. Our experts assist with FOSCOS FSSAI License applications, document preparation, renewal, and compliance guidance. Contact us today to secure your FOSCOS FSSAI State License hassle-free!

FAQs

Q1. What is an FSSAI State License under FOSCOS?

Ans. An FSSAI State License is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for food businesses with an annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore. It is obtained through the FSSAI's Food Safety Compliance System (FOSCOS) portal and is required for businesses operating at a state level.

Q2. Who needs an FSSAI State License?

Ans. Businesses such as medium-sized food manufacturers, storage units, transporters, wholesalers, distributors, and food service establishments like restaurants and catering services with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 12 lakh but less than Rs. 20 crore need an FSSAI State License.

Q3. How can I apply for an FSSAI State License through FOSCOS?

Ans. You can apply for an FSSAI State License through the FOSCOS portal by:

-Registering on foscos.fssai.gov.in.

-Selecting the 'State License' option based on eligibility.

-Filling out the application form (Form B).

-Uploading required documents.

-Paying the applicable fee and submitting the application.

-Awaiting approval from the state food safety department.

Q4. What documents are required for an FSSAI State License?

Ans. The documents required for an FSSAI State License include:

-Identity and address proof of the business owner.

-Business incorporation certificate (if applicable).

-Food safety management system (FSMS) plan.

-Premises layout plan.

-List of food products to be manufactured or sold.

-Water testing report (if applicable).

-No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local municipality (if required).

Q5. What is the validity period of an FSSAI State License?

Ans. The FSSAI State License is valid for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on the duration selected at the time of application. Renewal must be done before the expiry date through the FOSCOS portal.

Q6. How much does it cost to obtain an FSSAI State License?

Ans. The government fee for an FSSAI State License varies between Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 per year, depending on the nature of the business. Additional costs may include professional service fees if you hire a consultant.

Q7. What happens if I operate a food business without an FSSAI State License?

Ans. Operating without an FSSAI license is a legal offense under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It may result in penalties of up to Rs. 5 lakh and imprisonment, depending on the severity of non-compliance.

Q8. How can I renew my FSSAI State License?

Ans. You can renew your FSSAI State License through the FOSCOS portal by:

-Logging into your FOSCOS account.

-Selecting ‘License Renewal’ under the dashboard.

-Updating any required details.

-Uploading updated documents, if necessary.

-Paying the renewal fee and submitting the application before the expiry date.