Updated : June 14, 2024What Can I Do if My FSSAI Application Gets Rejected?
This blog gives you insights into the basic reasons why FSSAI application get rejected. It also explains the effective ways to deal with the reasons for a successful and smooth FSSAI application process.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) serves as the guardian of our nation’s food safety. It is entrusted with the critical task of regulating and supervising the food industry, ensuring that every morsel we consume is safe, wholesome, and adheres to the highest quality standards. Obtaining the FSSAI license is not merely a legal requirement but a testament to a food business’s commitment to delivering safe and healthy products to consumers. However, the journey to acquiring this esteemed license is not without its challenges.
In the world of food entrepreneurship, the difference between success and failure often hinges on the meticulousness with which you file your FSSAI application. The reality is, many entrepreneurs find themselves in a predicament where their FSSAI application get rejected, leaving them bewildered and concerned about the future of their food business. So, Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of what happens when your FSSAI application get rejected, the reasons for such rejection, and, most importantly, how it can be rectified.
What are the common grounds on which FSSAI Application get rejected?
FSSAI application get rejected for various reasons, the most common of which are incomplete or inaccurate information, failure to meet food safety standards, lack of proper infrastructure, non-compliance with licensing regulations, and non-payment of fees. We have explained these common grounds in detail below. To avoid rejection, food businesses should thoroughly understand and adhere to the FSSAI regulations and ensure that their operations meet the required standards and conditions.
Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Incomplete information refers to missing details or documents in the license application. Applicants should provide all the necessary information, including business details, contact information, and documents such as identity proofs, address proofs, and photographs. Inaccurate information includes providing false or misleading data. FSSAI relies on the accuracy of the information provided to assess food safety risks and ensure compliance.
Non-Compliance with Food Safety Standards
FSSAI sets specific food safety and quality standards that food businesses must adhere to. Non-compliance can result from various factors, such as using substandard ingredients, inadequate sanitation practices, or improper cooking and storage methods. Failure to maintain food safety standards can lead to contamination and health risks for consumers, making it a significant reason for license rejection.
Lack of Adequate Infrastructure
Adequate infrastructure is crucial to ensuring the safety and hygiene of food products. It includes factors such as proper storage facilities (e.g., refrigeration), clean and sanitary food preparation areas, and appropriate equipment for food processing. Insufficient infrastructure can lead to foodborne illnesses, spoilage, and quality issues, which are reasons for license rejection.
Failure to Comply with Licensing Regulations
FSSAI categorizes food businesses into different types, such as FSSAI registration, state license, and central license, based on their size and nature. Applying for the wrong category or failing to meet the specific requirements for the chosen category can result in rejection. For example, a small food vendor that operates locally should apply for FSSAI registration, while a large food manufacturer with national distribution may need a state or central license. Applying for a higher or lower category than necessary can lead to rejection.
Non-Payment of Adequate Fees
FSSAI charges fees for processing license applications and conducting inspections. Applicants are required to pay these fees as per the regulations. Non-payment or delayed payment can lead to the rejection of the license application. It’s essential for applicants to keep track of the fee structure and deadlines for payment to ensure that their application remains in compliance.
What to do if your FSSAI Application get rejected?
Receiving a rejection notice for your FSSAI application can be disheartening, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the world for your food business aspirations. The government has put forth regulations in place to ensure the safety and quality of food products, and adherence to these standards is crucial. If your FSSAI application get rejected, there are steps you can take to rectify the situation and have your application revived.
Revival of rejected application for Basic and State FSSAI License:
- Applicants must file a reactivation request with the State Food Safety Commissioner within three months of rejection.
- After filing the reactivation request, a designated officer will review the case for merit.
- Within 30 days of receiving a request from a food operator, an email should be sent to the RC Division outlining the applicant’s findings.
- The Designated Officers indicated the proposal will need to be forwarded to the IT division for the application reactivation process.
- The IT division will evaluate the application that appears to be relevant and then reactivate it. They will also contact the DO/CFS under RCD’s supervision and share information about the reactivation.
Revival of rejected application for Central License:
- Applicants must apply to their FSSAI Regional Office within 6 months of the date of rejection.
- Considering the request, the director of the RO will examine the case for the verification process.
- After examining the request within 30 days, the regional office’s director will forward the recommendation to the RCD (Regional Compliance Division) at enforcement1@fssai.gov.in.
- The RCD will then investigate the case based on the RO’s recommendation.
- Based on the recommendation, the role of the Executive Director of the RCD would be to act as the final arbiter in such circumstances.
- After the case has been approved by RCD, it will be referred to the IT Division.
- In extreme instances, an FBO might go to the FSSAI headquarters and be evaluated by the CEO.
SOPs to Revive When FSSAI Application Get Rejected
It should be emphasized that simply applying for a food license does not guarantee that it will be issued. There are several grounds on the basis of which your FSSAI application get rejected. FSSAI on 7th July 2022, released SOPs for the rejected applications’ reactivation process. SOPs are only applicable in the following rejection scenarios:
- FBO inadvertently rejected the application during processing.
- If the cause of rejection is due to a technical error while being processed by a DO or FBO.
- Due to a lack of information or papers, the system automatically rejected the application.
How Setindiabiz can help?
Setindiabiz was formed with the vision of providing end-to-end compliance solutions for businesses. Thousands of customers rely on our assistance. We have qualified specialists on staff who can provide a broad spectrum of services to meet your needs.
The consultants here will aid you with proper follow-ups to comprehend every issue related to FSSAI application rejection process to avoid inaccuracy and ensure a smooth procedure. Contact us if you have any queries or need expert guidance.
Conclusion
The rejection of FSSAI applications has been a longstanding challenge for food business operators. However, there are established procedures for revival of FSSAI application rejected by the authorities, allowing applicants to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. By following these processes, businesses can navigate through the reasons of rejection and continue their commitment to providing safe and high-quality products to consumers.
