I run a restaurant in Allahabad — which FSSAI license do I need?

Detailed Legal Analysis

As a restaurant owner in Allahabad, you will need to obtain an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license, specifically a FSSAI Basic Registration or a FSSAI State License, depending on your annual turnover and scale of operations.

The FSSAI operates under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which governs food safety and regulates the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food products in India. Here’s what you need to know about the FSSAI licenses:

• Types of FSSAI License:
  • Basic Registration: Required for small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs. This includes small restaurants, hawkers, and food stalls.
  • State License: Needed for medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores. Most restaurants fall into this category.
  • Central License: Required for large food businesses operating across states, with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.

To apply for a FSSAI license, follow these steps:

• Determine the type of license: Based on your restaurant’s annual turnover.
• Prepare documentation: Collect necessary documents including:
  • Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
  • Address proof of the business
  • Blueprint of the restaurant layout
  • List of food products to be sold
  • Food safety management system document (if applicable)
• Fill out the application form: Use the FSSAI online portal to fill in the application form relevant to your license type.
• Pay the required fee: The fee varies based on the type of license and the duration (1-5 years). For example, the fee for a State License typically ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000.
• Submission: Submit the application along with the documents and payment receipt through the FSSAI online portal.
• Inspection: Be prepared for an inspection by FSSAI officials, especially for State and Central licenses.

Once approved, you will receive your FSSAI license, which must be prominently displayed in your restaurant as per the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011. Ensure compliance with the guidelines to maintain your license and avoid penalties.