Running a food business in India requires an FSSAI license. However, most applications are rejected due to non-compliance and errors. If your FSSAI application is rejected, don’t worry—you can reapply for an FSSAI license after taking corrective steps to resolve the issues. This blog will help you identify the most common reasons for FSSAI license rejection and the steps to successfully reapply.
Understanding FSSAI and Its Importance
The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) regulates and ensures food safety in India. Obtaining an FSSAI license ensures that a food business meets hygiene and safety standards. Running a business without an FSSAI license may result in penalties, legal action, or business closure. That’s why getting and maintaining an FSSAI license is must for food business operators (FBOs)
Common Reasons for FSSAI License Rejection
- FSSAI Document Errors
The most common reason for FSSAI license rejection is incorrect or incomplete documentation. If the submitted application does not match the requirements, your fssai license application may be face rejections. For example: missing identify proof, business details incorrect, or an incomplete food safety plan.
- FSSAI Non-Compliance
If your business fails to meet the regulatory standards set by FSSAI, this can result in the rejection of your application. Non-compliance can also include failure to renew licenses, misleading advertisements, and failure to conduct periodic food testing.
- FSSAI Registration Issues
If you select the wrong category while applying for the fssai license this can also lead to rejection. There are three type of fssai license such as Basic Registration, State License, and Central License, so you need to apply correct fssai license depending on turnover and business scale.
- FSSAI Rejection Reasons Due to Incorrect Business Details
Minor discrepancies can often be rectified instead of leading to outright rejection. Recheck business names, addresses, and other details align with official documents.
- Food License Rejection Due to Non-Payment of Fees
If you miss deadline or not paying the fees can also lead to rejection. Maintain proper track of payment deadlines is important to avoid unnecessary rejections.
Steps to Fix Errors in an FSSAI Application
- Review the Rejection Letter
Review the rejection application carefully because FSSAI authority provides reasons for rejection in the application status. Review this document carefully to know what went wrong.
- Check Your Documents
Double-check all required documents to ensure they are complete and match the application requirements.
- Correct Any Errors
If your application was rejected due to incorrect details, make the necessary corrections in the form.
- Follow the FSSAI Appeal Process
If you believe the rejection was incorrect or unfair, you can file an appeal through the FSSAI portal.
- Reapply FSSAI License
If an application is rejected, a new application must be submitted. It is not a “reapplication” but a fresh application.
How to Reapply for an FSSAI License After Rejection
- Log in to the FSSAI Portal
Use your registered credentials to access your application status on the FSSAI website.
- Check FSSAI Application Status After Rejection
Before reapplying, check the status of your previous application and the specific reasons for rejection.
- Submit the Corrected Application
Ensure that all required details are accurate and include all necessary supporting documents.
- Pay the Applicable Fees
Ensure that you pay the necessary fees on time to avoid rejection due to non-payment.
- Await Approval
Once submitted, your corrected application will undergo verification by the authorities.
How to Appeal an FSSAI License Rejection
If you believe that your application was rejected without valid reasons, you have the right to appeal. Here’s how:
- Visit the FSSAI Portal: Appeals against rejection need to be filed with the Commissioner of Food Safety or Food Appellate Tribunal, not just through the FSSAI portal.
- Submit a Written Request: Clearly explain why you believe the rejection was incorrect.
- Attach Necessary Documents: Provide any additional proof that may support your appeal.
- Follow Up: Keep in touch with FSSAI officials to track the status of your appeal.
Documents Required for FSSAI Reapplication
To ensure a successful reapplication, keep the following documents ready:
- Identity and address proof of the business owner.
- Business registration certificate.
- Details of the food products handled.
- Food safety management plan.
- NOC from local authorities (if required).
How to Avoid FSSAI Rejection Due to Documentation Errors
- Double-check all submitted documents before applying.
- Ensure the business name and address match official government records.
- Provide a detailed food safety plan to comply with FSSAI standards.
- Keep updated with the Latest FSSAI Compliance Rules to avoid rejection.
Latest FSSAI Compliance Rules to Prevent Application Rejection
Staying updated with FSSAI regulations is crucial. Here are some recent compliance rules that businesses must follow:
- Proper labeling requirements, including allergen information.
- Regular food safety audits.
- Compliance with hygiene and sanitation guidelines.
- Correct licensing category selection based on business turnover.
- Adherence to packaging and storage guidelines.
Consequences of Operating Without an FSSAI License
If you continue operating a food business without an FSSAI license, you may face:
- Heavy penalties and fines.
- Legal action that can result in business closure.
- Loss of customer trust due to non-compliance.
- Ineligibility for government schemes and benefits.
Conclusion
An FSSAI license rejection can be a setback, but it doesn’t mean the end of your food business. To know the common reasons for rejections and corrective measures, you can successfully obtain your license. Ensuring compliance with FSSAI guidelines, double-checking documentation, and following the correct application process will help you avoid unnecessary rejections in the future. Take proactive steps today to secure your food business license and continue operations legally.
What to Do If Your FSSAI Application is Rejected? (FAQ)
Your FSSAI application may be rejected due to incorrect documentation, non-compliance with hygiene and safety standards, incorrect category selection, mismatched business details, or non-payment of fees.
Yes, you can reapply after correcting the errors mentioned in the rejection letter. Ensure all documents are accurate and comply with FSSAI guidelines before resubmitting.
Log in to the FSSAI portal using your registered credentials, navigate to the application status section, and review the rejection reasons provided by the authorities.
You need identity and address proof, a business registration certificate, details of food products handled, a food safety management plan, and an NOC from local authorities (if required).
Yes, you can file an appeal on the FSSAI portal. Submit a written request explaining the issue, attach supporting documents, and follow up with the authorities for updates.
Double-check all submitted documents, ensure your business details match government records, comply with hygiene and labeling standards, and stay updated with the latest FSSAI regulations.
Operating without an FSSAI license can lead to penalties, legal actions, business closure, and loss of customer trust. It may also make your business ineligible for government schemes and benefits.
