If you're looking to start a food business in Tamil Nadu, getting an
FSSAI certificate is essential. This certificate guarantees that your food
business adheres to safety and hygiene standards set by the Food Safety and
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This article will guide you through the
step-by-step process of applying for an FSSAI certificate in Tamil Nadu
online.
What is an FSSAI Certificate?
The FSSAI certificate is a license granted by the
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which operates under the
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. This certificate
is essential for all food business operators (FBOs) to guarantee that the food
they produce, store, distribute, and sell complies with safety standards.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
Before applying for an FSSAI certificate in Tamil Nadu, you must
determine the type of license suitable for your business:
- FSSAI
Basic Registration - For small businesses with an annual
turnover of up to ?12 lakh.
- FSSAI
State License - For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ?12
lakh and ?20 crore.
- FSSAI
Central License - For large businesses with an annual
turnover above ?20 crore or those involved in import/export of food
products.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for an FSSAI
Certificate in Tamil Nadu
Step 1: Visit the FSSAI Registration Portal
Go to the official Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) website:
https://foscos.fssai.gov.in.
Step 2: Create an Account
- Click
on the "Sign Up" option.
- Enter
your name, email ID, phone number, and create a password.
- Verify
your account through OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
Step 3: Select the Type of License
- Choose Basic
Registration, State License, or Central License based on your business
turnover and type.
- Select Tamil
Nadu as your state and proceed.
Step 4: Fill in Business Details
- Enter
your business name, address, nature of business, and food category.
- Upload
the necessary documents (as listed below).
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
The required documents vary based on the type of license. Generally, you
need:
- Identity
Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID)
- Business
Address Proof (Electricity bill, rental agreement, or property documents)
- Food
Safety Management Plan
- Proof
of Turnover (for State and Central License)
- NOC
from Municipality or Local Body (if applicable)
Step 6: Pay the Fee
The fee structure depends on the type of license:
- Basic
Registration: ?100 - ?500 per year
- State
License: ?2,000 - ?5,000 per year
- Central
License: ?7,500 per year
Choose the preferred payment method and complete the payment securely.
Step 7: Submit the Application
After filling in all details and uploading documents, review your
application and submit it. You will receive an application reference number to
track the status.
Step 8: Inspection and Approval
- The
FSSAI authority may conduct an inspection of your premises (if
required).
- Once
verified, your FSSAI certificate in Tamil Nadu will be issued
within 7-60 days, depending on the license type.
Benefits of Having an FSSAI Certificate
- Legal
Compliance – Avoid penalties and legal issues.
- Enhanced
Customer Trust – Consumers trust businesses with an FSSAI
certification.
- Business
Expansion – Required for exporting or selling to large retailers.
- Better
Brand Recognition – A certified business is considered reliable
and credible.
Conclusion
Applying for an FSSAI certificate in Tamil Nadu is a simple
online process. By following the steps mentioned above, food business operators
can ensure compliance with FSSAI regulations. Having this certification not
only protects your business legally but also enhances your reputation in the
food industry.
Top 10 FAQs on FSSAI
certificate in Tamil Nadu
1. Who needs an FSSAI certificate in Tamil Nadu?
Any person or business engaged in food manufacturing,
processing, storage, distribution, or sale is required to obtain an FSSAI
certificate in Tamil Nadu.
2. How can I apply for an FSSAI certificate in Tamil Nadu?
You can apply online via the FoSCoS portal by choosing the
correct license type, entering your business details, uploading the necessary
documents, and paying the applicable fee.
3. What are the types of FSSAI licenses available?
- Basic
Registration: For businesses with an annual turnover of up to ?12 lakh.
- State
License: For businesses with an annual turnover between ?12 lakh and ?20
crore.
- Central
License: For businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ?20 crore or
those involved in imports/exports.
4. What documents are required for FSSAI registration?
The required documents include:
- Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID)
- Business
address proof (electricity bill, rental agreement)
- Food Safety Management Plan
- Turnover proof (for State and Central licenses)
- NOC from Municipality or Local Body (if
applicable)
5. How long does it take to get an FSSAI certificate in
Tamil Nadu?
The process usually takes between 7 to 60 days, depending
on the type of license and the completion of inspection procedures.
6. What is the validity of an FSSAI certificate?
The FSSAI certificate is valid for a period of 1 to 5
years, and businesses need to renew it before it expires to avoid penalties.
7. What happens if I don’t get an FSSAI certificate?
Operating a food business without an FSSAI certificate in
Tamil Nadu can result in fines ranging from ?25,000 to ?5 lakh, and in severe
cases, imprisonment.
8. Can I transfer my FSSAI license if I change my business
location?
No, the FSSAI certificate is specific to a location. You
will need to apply for a modification or a new license if you change your
business location.
9. How much does FSSAI registration cost?
- Basic Registration: ?100-?500 per year
- State License: ?2,000-?5,000 per year
- Central License: ?7,500 per year
10. How can I check my FSSAI application status?
You can track your FSSAI application status online by
entering your reference number on the FoSCoS portal.
