Food Certification in India

Food certification in India is a critical component in ensuring that food products meet safety and quality standards. In a country with a vast and diverse food industry, certifications help ensure that food is safe for consumption and produced following regulatory norms. Whether you are a manufacturer, importer, or business owner, obtaining food certifications is not only a legal requirement but also boosts consumer confidence in your products.

In this detailed guide, we will explore various food certifications available in India, their importance, and the process to obtain them. Additionally, we will address frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding food certification to provide you with all the information you need.

Food certification plays a significant role in safeguarding public health and maintaining food quality. Here’s why food certification is crucial in India:

1. Ensures Food Safety

Certifications ensure that food products meet the necessary hygiene and safety standards. The certification process involves testing, inspections, and audits to ensure that food is safe for consumption.

2. Regulatory Compliance

Food businesses must comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSAI) and other regulatory guidelines to operate in India. Certifications ensure compliance with these laws and regulations.

3. Enhances Consumer Trust

Certified products provide assurance to consumers that the food they are purchasing has been manufactured or processed under strict quality controls, promoting consumer confidence.

4. Boosts Marketability

Certified food products are more marketable both domestically and internationally. With proper certification, businesses can expand into new markets, especially for exports.

5. Mitigates Legal Risks

Non-compliance with food safety standards can lead to legal issues, fines, and even business shutdowns. Certifications minimize these risks by ensuring that businesses adhere to the legal requirements.

Several certifications cater to different segments of the food industry. Below are some of the most recognized and mandatory food certifications in India:

1. FSSAI Certification

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex body that regulates food safety in India. FSSAI certification is mandatory for all food-related businesses, including manufacturers, traders, importers, and exporters. The FSSAI license is issued based on the size and nature of the food business.

• Basic FSSAI License: For small-scale food businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs annually.
• State FSSAI License: For medium-scale food businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores annually.
• Central FSSAI License: For large-scale food businesses with a turnover exceeding ₹20 crores annually or involved in import/export.

2. ISO 22000:2018 Certification

ISO 22000:2018 is an internationally recognized food safety management system certification. It integrates HACCP principles and requires businesses to establish a robust system to manage food safety risks. This certification is ideal for companies that operate in the global market or supply to international brands.

3. HACCP Certification

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification is a risk management system focused on identifying and controlling potential hazards in food production and processing. HACCP certification is recognized globally and is crucial for businesses involved in food manufacturing, packaging, and distribution.

4. Organic Certification (NPOP/NOP)

Organic certification in India is governed by the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP). This certification is mandatory for businesses involved in the production, processing, and export of organic food. NPOP ensures that organic products adhere to specific organic farming and processing standards.

For exports, businesses need certification under both NPOP and National Organic Program (NOP) of the United States, which is recognized globally.

5. AGMARK Certification

AGMARK is a certification mark regulated by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, under the Ministry of Agriculture. It ensures that agricultural products conform to specific quality standards. AGMARK certification is commonly used for products like cereals, pulses, vegetable oils, and honey.

6. BIS Certification

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification applies to both food and non-food products, ensuring they meet Indian standards. For food items like packaged drinking water and certain milk products, BIS certification is mandatory.

7. Fair Trade Certification

Fair Trade certification is focused on ensuring that food products are sourced ethically, and the farmers/producers are paid fairly. It applies mainly to products like coffee, tea, spices, and cocoa.

8. Non-GMO Certification

Businesses that claim to produce or process food without genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can apply for a Non-GMO certification. This certification is crucial for businesses catering to consumers looking for natural and non-GMO food products.

9. Gluten-Free Certification

For businesses that produce gluten-free products, obtaining Gluten-Free certification is essential to prove that their products meet the required standards for gluten-free claims.

10. Kosher and Halal Certification

Kosher certification ensures that food products comply with Jewish dietary laws, while Halal certification is for products that adhere to Islamic dietary laws. These certifications are particularly important for businesses targeting Jewish or Muslim consumers.

The process of applying for food certification varies depending on the type of certification required. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for FSSAI certification, which is mandatory for all food businesses:

Step 1: Determine Your License Type

First, identify whether your business requires a Basic, State, or Central FSSAI license based on your annual turnover and the nature of your business.

Step 2: Register on FSSAI Portal

Visit our FSSAI registration portal and create an account by providing basic details like business name, email address, and phone number.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application

After registration, log in to your account and fill out the FSSAI application form (Form A or Form B) depending on the license type. Ensure you provide accurate information regarding your business location, food category, and turnover.

Step 4: Submit Required Documents

You will need to submit several documents, including:

• Identity proof of the business owner (Aadhar, PAN, etc.)
• Proof of business address
• Food safety management plan
• List of food products manufactured or processed
• Business incorporation certificate

Step 5: Fee Payment

Pay the required fee based on the type of license you are applying for. The fee structure varies depending on the scale of your food business.

Step 6: Inspection and Approval

Once your application is submitted, FSSAI officials may conduct an inspection of your food premises. If the inspection is satisfactory and your application is complete, you will receive the FSSAI license.

Step 7: Renewal

FSSAI licenses are valid for 1-5 years, after which businesses need to renew their license. Ensure you apply for renewal at least 30 days before the expiration date to avoid penalties.

1. Consumer Trust: Certifications help businesses gain consumer trust by ensuring that their food products are safe and meet regulatory standards.
2. Market Expansion: Certified products can access new domestic and international markets, helping businesses grow and expand.
3. Legal Protection: Certification protects businesses from legal challenges and fines by ensuring compliance with food safety laws.
4. Improved Product Quality: Certified businesses maintain better quality control systems, leading to improved product quality.
5. Competitive Advantage: Businesses with certifications like FSSAI, ISO 22000, or HACCP have a competitive edge over non-certified competitors.

1. Time-Consuming: The certification process can be time-consuming, involving multiple steps, including documentation, audits, and inspections.
2. Cost: For small businesses, the cost of certification and compliance can be a financial burden.
3. Continuous Compliance: Maintaining certification requires continuous compliance with food safety standards, which may require regular audits and quality control checks.

1. What is FSSAI certification?

FSSAI certification is a mandatory food safety license for all food businesses in India, ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.

2. Is food certification mandatory for small businesses?

Yes, FSSAI certification is mandatory even for small food businesses. The type of license depends on the scale of the business.

3. How can I apply for FSSAI certification?

You can apply for FSSAI certification through the our portal by filling out the application and submitting the necessary documents.

4. What is ISO 22000 certification?

ISO 22000 is an international food safety management system certification that helps businesses manage food safety risks and comply with global standards.

5. What is HACCP certification?

HACCP certification is a risk management system that identifies and controls potential hazards in food production and processing.

6. How long is the FSSAI license valid?

FSSAI licenses are valid for 1-5 years, depending on the choice of the business owner. After expiration, it must be renewed.

7. What is AGMARK certification?

AGMARK certification ensures that agricultural products, such as grains and spices, meet quality standards set by the Ministry of Agriculture.

8. Can I export food products without certification?

No, food products intended for export must have the necessary certifications, such as FSSAI, organic, or other relevant international certifications.

9. What is the cost of FSSAI certification?

The cost varies depending on the type of license and the scale of the business. Small businesses require a Basic FSSAI license, which is less expensive than a Central FSSAI license.

10. How often are food premises inspected?

Food premises are typically inspected during the certification process and may be subject to periodic inspections to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Obtaining food certification in India is essential for ensuring food safety, regulatory compliance, and marketability. Whether you are a small food business or a large manufacturer, certifications like FSSAI, ISO 22000, and HACCP can help enhance product quality, build consumer trust, and expand your market reach.