The food sector of India is increasing day by day. Demand for branded food and packaged food is highest ever. At this point, the role of the food repackers and the relabelers becomes very crucial. These industries sell pre-packaged foods in new packs or repackage them under a new brand name.
But are you aware that FSSAI registration (Registration of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is mandatory for such enterprises? In the absence of this license, such enterprises can be prosecuted.
We will detail hereafter why FSSAI registration is necessary for food repackers and relabellers, and what benefits they enjoy.
FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is the food safety regulatory body in India. Their sole responsibility is to make sure all food products on sale in the market are safe. Guarantee that quality and standardized food are supplied to the consumers.
Every business enterprise engaged in manufacturing, packing, repacking, or relabeling food products has to register with FSSAI or obtain a license.
Food Repackers: If any firm manufactures pulses, spices, or biscuits in bulk packs, now if a company retails the same product in small packs, then it is referred to as a repacker.
Food Relabelers: If anyone or any business retails a packaged finished product by putting its own brand name and label on it, then it is referred to as a relabeler.
Here, the product reaches your customer's hand. Here, you are also responsible for quality and safety. Due to this, the FSSAI license is mandatorily required by law for such businesses.
Consumer confidence:
Now, the first thing that consumers look for when purchasing food or beverages is the logo of
FSSAI. If the packaging of your product has this logo, they are certain that the product is safe
and as per the laws.
Operating without an FSSAI license can lead to heavy penalties, along with jail time. With a license, you can operate a business without any worry.
FSSAI registration improves your brand image. It reflects that you care about the quality and health of your customers.
For trade with wholesalers, retail chain stores, online shops, or large enterprises, you require an FSSAI license. Without a license, you are not allowed to place your items online or in large malls.
FSSAI-registered organizations alone benefit from numerous government schemes, subsidies, and funding.
If a food repacker or relabeler is operating without an FSSAI license, then:
So, it's not a formality, but a law.
Three types of FSSAI licenses exist –
Repackers and relabelers need to obtain a license in the concerned category, depending on their business.
Below is a general step-by-step process to obtain an FSSAI license:
Relabellers and repackers of food hold a very significant position in the food business in India. But are you aware that FSSAI registration (Registration of Food Safety and Standards is necessary, however, to feel business success and longevity. It not only keeps you safe from legal problems, but it also strengthens your business opportunities, company image, and customer trust.
If opening a food relabeling or food repacking company, then the first thing should be to get an FSSAI license. This is the key to a safe and successful business.