If you are involved in the manufacture, storage, distribution, retail, or import of alcoholic beverages in India, obtaining an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license is mandatory. This ensures that your products meet the safety and quality standards as prescribed by the FSSAI, and helps maintain consumer trust and compliance with legal requirements. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the FSSAI license requirements for alcoholic beverages.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
There are three types of FSSAI licenses, based on the scale of your business:
- Basic FSSAI Registration: For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to INR 12 lakhs.
- State FSSAI License: For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between INR 12 lakhs and INR 20 crores.
- Central FSSAI License: For large businesses with an annual turnover exceeding INR 20 crores, or if you are involved in import/export.
Eligibility Criteria
- Manufacturers: Any entity involved in the production or processing of alcoholic beverages must obtain an FSSAI license.
- Storage Units: Warehouses and storage facilities handling alcoholic beverages require an FSSAI license.
- Distributors and Retailers: Businesses involved in the wholesale or retail distribution of alcoholic beverages must be licensed.
- Importers: Companies importing alcoholic beverages into India must have an FSSAI license to ensure the products meet the safety standards.
Documents Required for FSSAI License
Basic FSSAI Registration:
- Photo identity proof of the applicant
- Address proof of the business premises
- Proof of business ownership
State and Central FSSAI License:
- Form B duly completed and signed
- Photo identity proof and address proof of the business owner or partners
- Proof of possession of premises (rental agreement or ownership documents)
- List of directors/partners with their addresses and contact details
- List of equipment and machinery used in the business
- Details of the food category (alcoholic beverages)
- Water testing report (if applicable)
- NOC from the municipality or local body
- Import Export Code (IEC) certificate (for importers)
- Copy of the manufacturing license (for manufacturers)
- Food safety management plan or certificate (if applicable)
Process to Obtain FSSAI License
- Application Submission: Submit the application form along with the required documents to the FSSAI portal.
- Approval: Once the inspection is satisfactory, the FSSAI license will be issued. This process usually takes 30-60 days.
Compliance and Renewal
- Compliance: Licensed entities must comply with the FSSAI regulations regarding labeling, safety, and quality of alcoholic beverages. Regular audits and inspections may be conducted by FSSAI officials.
- Renewal: The FSSAI license is typically valid for 1 to 5 years. Renewal should be applied for at least 30 days before the expiry date to avoid penalties and ensure continuous compliance.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Failure to obtain an FSSAI license or non-compliance with FSSAI standards can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, along with the cancellation of the license.
Labeling Requirements for Alcoholic Beverages
FSSAI has specific labeling requirements for alcoholic beverages to ensure transparency and inform consumers about the product details. The label must include the following information:
- Product Name: Mention the name of the alcoholic beverage.
- Alcohol Content: Indicate the percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV).
- Manufacturer Details: Include the name and address of the manufacturer or importer.
- FSSAI Logo and License Number: Display the FSSAI logo and your FSSAI license number.
- Batch Number: Each batch of production should have a unique batch number for traceability.
- Date of Manufacture and Expiry: Mention the manufacturing date and the best before or expiry date.
- Ingredients: List all ingredients used in the product.
- Net Volume: Specify the net volume of the beverage.
- Warnings: Include mandatory health warnings such as “Consumption of alcohol is injurious to health” and “Do not drink and drive”.
Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
Implementing a robust Food Safety Management System (FSMS) is crucial for businesses dealing with alcoholic beverages. FSMS ensures that all food safety hazards are identified, controlled, and monitored. Key components of an effective FSMS include:
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Adherence to GMP ensures that alcoholic beverages are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards.
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP): This preventive approach identifies potential hazards in the production process and establishes critical control points to manage these risks.
- Training and Awareness: Regular training sessions for staff on food safety standards, personal hygiene, and best practices in handling alcoholic beverages.
- Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of production processes, quality checks, and compliance activities.
Import Regulations for Alcoholic Beverages
If you are importing alcoholic beverages, you must comply with additional FSSAI requirements:
- Product Approval: Ensure that the imported alcoholic beverages have FSSAI product approval.
- Labeling Compliance: Imported products must comply with the FSSAI labeling regulations.
- Customs Clearance: Obtain the necessary clearances from customs and other relevant authorities.
- Sample Testing: Imported alcoholic beverages may be subject to sample testing to ensure they meet FSSAI standards.
Note: Now easily apply for fssai license renewal through fssai portal.
Conclusion
Obtaining an FSSAI license for alcoholic beverages is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of your products, complying with legal requirements, and maintaining consumer trust. By adhering to the guidelines and maintaining high standards, businesses can thrive in the competitive market of alcoholic beverages. For detailed assistance with the FSSAI license application process, consider consulting with a professional service provider.