How to Apply for FoSCoS registration in India?

FoSCoS registration is a crucial step for people who start a food business in India. The FoSCoS is an online portal for FSSAI registration. This helps food business to apply for an FSSAI license through the official FSSAI portal. This portal allows to make food operations hassle-free, trustworthy, and transparent. It is important to understand its overview and purpose to support business growth. In this blog, you will get a guidance about the FoSCoS registration process and more.

What is FoSCoS?

FoSCoS means Food Safety Compliance System. This is a digital platform introduced by FSSAI in 2020 and currently operated under its regulatory framework. This is a portal designed for FSSAI registration. The platform has replaced the old FLRS (Food Licensing and Registration System). It helps to build efficiency and compliance to keep food safe. Food business operators (FBOs) get an FSSAI license through the FoSCoS registration. They also file annual returns and handle compliance. This supports smooth operations and maintains safety standards for customers.

Types of FSSAI Licenses Under FoSCoS

There are three types of FSSAI licenses under FoSCoS. Each type depends on business type and turnover:

FSSAI Basic Registration

If a small food business has an annual turnover of up to Rs 12 lakh, they can apply for an FSSAI Basic registration. It includes home-based food sellers, petty manufacturers, street food vendors, etc.

FSSAI State License

The state license suits food business that operates within a single state. This is for medium-sized food businesses. It has an annual turnover is between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore. It applies to restaurants, caterers, distributors, and small to medium manufacturers.

FSSAI Central License

FSSAI central license is suitable for large food businesses. If an annual turnover of a business is more than Rs. 20 crore, they can apply for it. It applies when business supplies food to railway, airport, government offices, etc.

Documents Required for FoSCoS Registration

Here are the key documents required for FoSCoS registration in India:

Common Documents for All Types of FSSAI Licenses

1. Identity and Address Proof like Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, etc.
2. Business address proof, like a rent agreement, lease, utility bill, or ownership papers.
3. Passport-sized photo of the applicant.
4. Business Constitution/Type Proof: It can include the Certificate of Incorporation for companies. Partnership Deed, Proprietorship Registration Certificate.
5. Product catalogue: A detailed list of all products for manufacture, sale, or distribution.
6. Food Safety Management System Plan
7. A self-declaration form as per FSSAI requirements.
8. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local authority or health department, if applicable.
9. Water Testing Report for businesses involved in food or beverages.

Basic Registration

1. Form A: It means a completely filled and signed application form.
2. A declaration that describes the type of business.
3. Food Handler Certificate (if applicable).

State & Central License Documents

1. Form B: Application form completely filled and signed.
2. List of Directors/Partners: contact information and photocopies of photo ID
3. Equipment and Machinery Details: Give quantity and installed capacity.
4. Water Analysis Report
5. Layout Plan: A simple map or blueprint showing the size and area of the food unit.
6. Authority Letter, which is from the manufacturer nominating a responsible person.
7. No Objection Certificate (NOC): From the local authority
8. Health NOC: From the health department, if applicable.
9. Food Categories List
10. Recall Plan: If applicable, for central license holders.
11. Import Export Code (DGFT) and other required certificates, if needed.
12. Form IX: Nomination of a responsible person.
13. Supporting documents include: Proof of turnover and transportation information.

How to Apply for FoSCoS Registration in India?

Listed below are the steps to apply for FoSCoS Registration in India:

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

You should go to the official FoSCoS portal to begin the process of FSSAI registration.

Step 2: Create a User Account

You need to create a user account by clicking on the “Sign Up” option. Then, give your full name, mobile number, and email ID. An OTP confirms your details. You can also check the details with OTP. Once verified, your account becomes active.

Step 3: Select the Correct License Type

Once logged in, you must choose the “Apply for New License/Registration” option. Choose the correct license type as per your business. It includes Basic Registration, State License and Central license.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Fill out and complete the application form with the required information. Form A is for Basic Registration. Form B is used for State or Central License. Enter details such as business name, address, phone number, email id, etc.  It also includes the required documents.

Step 5: Upload Documents

In this step, you must submit scanned copies of documents. The documents can include identity proof, address proof, business registration certificate, and more. Each file must stay within 2 MB. Clear and correct documents help with quick verification.

Step 6: Pay the License Fees

You must pay the FSSAI registration fee online according to your chosen license type. Once payment is done, the system issues an Application Reference Number (ARN). You can track the progress of your application with this number.

Step 7: Review and Inspection

Authorities will check the form and documents. An inspection may take place at your premises for some businesses. It ensures that they meet food safety standards. You will get informed about required corrections or documents if needed.

Step 8: License Approval and Download

This is the final step of FoSCoS registration. Once your application is approved, you must log in to the official FoSCoS portal. Next, you must download the FSSAI registration certificate. The certificate contains a 14-digit number. FSSAI License remains valid for one to five years. You can apply for renewal before expiry.

FoSCoS registration Fees in India

FoSCoS (Food Licensing and Registration System) registration depends on business type. The fee is Rs. 100 per year for Basic Registration. State License fees is Rs. 2000 to Rs. 5000 per year. the Central License Fees applies to Rs. 7500 per year. Once registered, the FSSAI registration is valid for 1 to 5 years.

Benefits of FoSCoS Registration in India

Here are the key benefits of FoSCoS registration in India:

Credibility and Consumer Trust

A valid FSSAI registration proves that a business follows food safety norms. This helps to build customer trust, strengthens brand image and supports business growth. A license confirms that the customer buys safe and good quality food.

Compliance and Avoidance of Penalties

FoSCoS registration is compulsory for every Food Business Operator (FBO) under FSSAI rules. This registration helps to avoid heavy fines, cancelation of license, and other delays.

Standardisation and Reduced Paperwork

FSSAI registration gives standard product categories and clear business types (KoB). The registration makes less paperwork and fewer compliance burdens for food operators.

Consumer Safety and Public Health

The main aim of FoSCoS is to protect public health. This helps registered business to follow hygiene, quality, and safety norms.

Conclusion

FoSCoS registration is a crucial step for every food business operator (FBO) in India. It builds customer trust, improve brand reputation and supports business growth. FSSAI registration helps businesses to follow food and safety norms for customers. If you want to get an FSSAI license for your business, get assistance with Online Legal India.

FAQ

Q1. What is FoSCoS registration in India?

The FoSCoS registration is a compulsory digital process for Food Business Operators (FBOs). This process allows them to get their FSSAI registration or license in India. the full form of FoSCoS is Food Safety Compliance System. It has replaced the old FLRS (Food Licensing and Registration System). This helps to build business efficiency and credibility. The platform handles applications, renewals, annual returns, etc.

Q2. What is FoSCoS?

FoSCoS means the Food Safety Compliance System. This is a online portal introduced by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This portal is applicable for FSSAI registration of a food business.

Q3. Is the entire FoSCoS registration process completed online?

Yes, the entire process of FoSCoS registration is completed online. This allows food businesses to apply for or renew the FSSAI registration through the FoSCoS portal. There is no need to submit physical documents to the regional or state offices.

Q4. What is the validity of FoSCoS registration in India?

The FoSCoS registration or license is valid for one to five years from the date of issue. The Food Business Operator (FBO) has chosen this validity.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Online Legal India is a digital platform. If you require legal assistance, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified lawyer or law firm.