FSSAI Notice Assistance

Audit Requests, and Import Clearances: Key Insights for Food Businesses

FSSAI may issue legal notices to food businesses for various reasons, often due to non-compliance with food safety regulations. Common triggers include

Violation of FSSAI Standards

  • Use of substandard ingredients, incorrect labeling, or selling expired products

Operating Without a Valid License

  • Running a food business without obtaining or renewing an FSSAI license

Consumer Complaints

  • Receiving complaints related to food quality, safety, or hygiene

Non-Submission of Mandatory Reports

  • Failing to submit regular reports, such as annual returns or test reports for finished goods

Understand the Notice

  • Review the details of the notice to understand the specific violations

Engage an Expert

  • Consult with food safety consultants or legal experts to draft an appropriate response

Rectify Issues

  • Take corrective actions to address the violations highlighted

Reply Promptly

  • Submit a detailed and timely reply to avoid further penalties or legal action

Audits are a key part of FSSAI’s efforts to ensure food safety. The authority conducts audits of food businesses to assess their compliance with safety and hygiene standards

Mandatory Audits

  • For high-risk food businesses like dairy, meat processing, or beverage manufacturing

Surprise Audits

  • Conducted without prior notice to check real-time compliance

Follow-Up Audits

  • To verify corrective actions taken after initial audits

Documentation

  • Maintain proper records, including licenses, test reports, and hygiene checklists

Hygiene Practices

  • Ensure staff training in hygiene and food safety protocols

Self-Audits

  • Conduct internal audits to identify and address potential gaps

Equipment Maintenance

  • Keep machinery and facilities clean and operational.

For businesses involved in importing food products, FSSAI import clearance is a critical process. All imported food products must comply with FSSAI standards before they can be sold in the Indian market

Registration with FSSAI

  • Importers must register as Food Business Operators (FBOs) on the FSSAI platform.

Customs Declaration

  • File an Import Declaration with the Customs Department and provide details of the shipment.

Sample Inspection

  • Imported food products are subjected to sampling and testing by FSSAI’s authorized labs.

Final Clearance

  • Once the products meet all requirements, an Import Clearance Certificate is issued.

  • Bill of Entry and Customs Declaration.
  • FSSAI License for the importing business.
  • Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from an accredited lab.
  • Product labels complying with FSSAI labeling regulations

FSSAI compliance issues can arise from various aspects of food business operations. Here’s how to identify and address them

Common Compliance Issues

  • Regular Training: Educate employees on compliance requirements. 
  • Third-Party Testing: Use accredited labs to test your products periodically
  • Review Labels: Ensure that all product labels meet FSSAI guidelines. 
  • Engage Experts: Work with food safety consultants for compliance audits

FSSAI legal notices, audits, and import clearances emphasize the importance of strict compliance with food safety regulations. To avoid penalties and business disruptions:
  • Stay updated on FSSAI guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and reports.
  • Conduct regular self-audits and training sessions.
  • Seek expert assistance when necessary to ensure seamless compliance with legal and procedural requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

FoodTech Mate is a web-based platform designed to help food businesses in India manage FSSAI compliance, licensing, and regulatory needs

An FSSAI legal notice is issued to food businesses for non-compliance with food safety regulations

Prepare and provide all necessary documents, including FSSAI license, production records, and lab test reports, during the audit

FSSAI inspects and clears imported food products to ensure they meet Indian safety standards

FBOs may receive penalties, a suspension of licenses, or a recall notice if violations are severe

Ensure regular compliance with FSSAI guidelines, conduct periodic internal audits, and maintain proper documentation.