FSSAI Annual Return Filing in India: Types, Deadlines & Penalties

A The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It is responsible for setting standards for food safety and regulating the manufacturing, storage, distribution, and sale of food to ensure safe and wholesome food for human consumption.

A FSSAI registration or licensing is mandatory for all Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in any stage of food business operations. It ensures compliance with food safety standards and builds consumer trust. Operating without a valid FSSAI license is illegal and can attract penalties.

A Any person or entity involved in the food business, including manufacturers, processors, packers, distributors, retailers, caterers, and food service operators, needs FSSAI registration or a license depending on their scale of operation. Even small food stalls and home-based food businesses may require registration.

A FSSAI Registration is required for small food businesses with an annual turnover below ₹12 lakh, whereas an FSSAI License is required for larger businesses exceeding this turnover. Licensing involves stricter requirements, including inspections and FSMS implementation.

A There are three types of FSSAI licenses:
• Central License for large-scale businesses operating in multiple states or dealing with imports/exports.
• State License for businesses operating within a specific state.
• Basic Registration for small businesses and petty food vendors.

A No, only FBOs holding an FSSAI License (Central or State) are required to file an annual return. Small businesses with basic registration are generally exempt.

A The FSSAI annual return (Form FSSAI-9) is a document submitted by licensed FBOs detailing their food business activities during the financial year. It helps FSSAI track food production, sales, and compliance.

A The return includes details like FBO’s license number, type of food products handled, quantity manufactured/sold, supplier and distributor details, and any product recalls.

A The due date for filing the annual return is May 31st for the previous financial year ending on March 31st.

A Failure to file the annual return can result in penalties, including fines. Continued non-compliance can lead to license suspension or cancellation.

A Other key compliances include maintaining hygiene and sanitation standards, implementing a Food Safety Management System (FSMS), complying with labeling requirements, adhering to advertising regulations, and conducting regular food testing.

A Food products must display the name and address of the manufacturer, ingredient list, nutritional information, expiry date, veg/non-veg symbol, allergen warnings, and the FSSAI logo with the license number.

A A Food Safety Management System (FSMS) is a systematic approach to food safety hazards. Large FBOs, especially those in manufacturing, must implement FSMS, while smaller businesses should have a basic food safety plan.

A Penalties vary based on the severity of violations and may include fines, license suspension or cancellation, and imprisonment in extreme cases.

A No, if you have a Central License, you file one consolidated annual return covering all operations across different states.

A Yes, food importers must include details such as quantity imported, source country, and other relevant information.

A Your annual return mainly focuses on your sales data. However, you should maintain records of your suppliers and provide details if requested by FSSAI.

A Yes, licensed businesses must file the annual return even if they had zero sales for certain months.

A It’s advisable to contact the FSSAI authorities for correction procedures and ensure transparency.

A An FSMS includes hazard analysis, prerequisite programs (hygiene, pest control), documented procedures, training programs, and internal audits.

A A Food Safety Auditor is a certified professional who assesses food business compliance with FSSAI regulations and FSMS requirements.

A If a business fails an audit, corrective actions must be taken within a specified timeframe. Repeated failures may lead to penalties or license suspension.

A FSSAI mandates standardized nutritional labeling, including calories, fat, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

A Avoid false claims, exaggerated health benefits, misleading endorsements, and unsubstantiated claims about curing diseases.

A Several organizations offer training programs. The FSSAI website provides resources on food safety training.

A Online food delivery platforms must comply with hygiene, safety, and delivery practice guidelines issued by FSSAI.

A FSSAI provides guidelines on proper food waste disposal to prevent contamination and environmental hazards.

A FSSAI maintains a list of permitted food additives and preservatives along with their permissible limits.

A Visit the FSSAI website regularly and subscribe to notifications for updates.

A Catering businesses must meet hygiene and food safety standards and obtain the necessary licenses to operate legally.