It is important for all FSSAI license holders to file their FSSAI returns regularly. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) requires all food business operators (FBOs) to file their annual returns through the online Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS). The FSSAI returns provide crucial information about the operations of FBOs and help the FSSAI monitor and regulate the food industry.
Filing FSSAI returns is mandatory for all FBOs, regardless of the type of food license they hold. The frequency of filing returns may vary depending on the category of FBO and the type of food license. For instance, FBOs holding a Central license must file their annual returns by the end of May each year, while FBOs holding a State license must file their returns by the end of June.
Filing FSSAI returns serves several important purposes:
- Compliance with Regulations: Filing FSSAI returns ensures that FBOs comply with the regulations set by the FSSAI. Failure to file returns can result in penalties and fines.
- Information Disclosure: FSSAI returns provide information about the FBO’s operations, including details of the food products handled, production, and sales figures. This information helps the FSSAI monitor and regulate the food industry.
- Quality Control: FSSAI returns help ensure that FBOs maintain quality control standards in their operations, including safety and hygiene.
- Business Continuity: Filing returns regularly ensures that FBOs can continue their business operations without interruption, as they comply with FSSAI regulations and maintain their food licenses.
In conclusion, filing FSSAI returns is mandatory for all FBOs holding food licenses in India. Regular filing of returns helps FBOs comply with regulations, disclose information, maintain quality control, and continue their business operations without interruption.
Procedure for filing FSSAI return for type of entities
The procedure for filing FSSAI returns may vary based on the type of entities. In general, there are three types of FSSAI licenses issued in India, which are:
- Central License
- State License
- Registration Certificate
Let’s take a look at the procedure for filing FSSAI return for each of these types of entities:
Central License
The procedure for filing Fssai return for entities holding a Central License is as follows:
Step 1: Go to the Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal and login with your FSSAI user ID and password.
Step 2: Click on the “Annual Return” tab and select “Central License Annual Return.”
Step 3: Fill in the required details, such as production and sales figures, details of raw materials, packaging materials, etc.
Step 4: Upload the necessary documents, such as the balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and auditor’s report.
Step 5: Submit the return and make the necessary payment online.
State License
The procedure for filing FSSAI return for entities holding a State License is similar to that of a Central License:
Step 1: Login to the FLRS portal using your FSSAI user ID and password.
Step 2: Click on the “Annual Return” tab and select “State License Annual Return.”
Step 3: Fill in the required details, such as production and sales figures, details of raw materials, packaging materials, etc.
Step 4: Upload the necessary documents, such as the balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and auditor’s report.
Step 5: Submit the return and make the necessary payment online.
Registration Certificate
The procedure for filing FSSAI return for entities holding a Registration Certificate is simpler than that of a Central or State License:
Step 1: Login to the FLRS portal using your FSSAI user ID and password.
Step 2: Click on the “Annual Return” tab and select “Registration Certificate Annual Return.”
Step 3: Fill in the required details, such as production and sales figures, details of raw materials, packaging materials, etc.
Step 4: Submit the return and make the necessary payment online.
It is important to note that FSSAI returns must be filed annually, and failure to file returns can result in penalties and fines. Therefore, it is recommended that FBOs file their returns in a timely manner and ensure that all the necessary information and documents are provided.