How can you transfer FSSAI – food license in India

Introduction

If you own a food business, you already know how important a food licence is. It is a testament to your consumers about the quality of food that you provide. It also shows that your food is safe and hygienic to consume, something that has become of the utmost importance post covid. Even people who sell food out of their own homes or cloud kitchens are must have a food license. 

The FSSAI registration process is overseen by the FSSAI. You can complete the entire process easily on the FSSAI Foscos website. In certain situations, namely when a food license holder passes away and someone else wants to continue the establishment. In such scenarios, the food licence can be transferred as per the food safety and standards act, 2006.

Note: Please keep in mind that the FSSAI gets to decide if they approve the transfer of the food license.

What is Transfer of FSSAI license

If a person holding a food license dies, their legal representative/family member/agent on their behalf can apply for FSSAI transfer.  One needs to make a food license transfer request within 90 days of the license holder’s demise. You can only ask for an FSSAI license transfer to a legal representative or any family member. The legal representative/family member/agent has to request the transfer of the certificate to the concerned authority in his/her favour. The application might be denied or approved by the authority after due verification. However, the FSSAI license authority cannot decline the application without providing the claimant an opportunity to be considered. If you do not apply for FSSAI transfer within 90 days, the food license expires.

Note: transfer of certificate or license will be applicable only in case of license holder’s demise.

A step-by-step process for transfer of FSSAI

The FSSAI authority will decide whether to approve or deny the transfer application after due verification. Here is a step-by-step process to apply for the transfer of FSSAI:

1. Firstly, visit the official FSSAI website and log in with your credentials.
2. Next, click on ‘Duplicate/Surrender/Transfer of License(s)’ and from the drop-down menu, select ‘Apply for Duplicate/Surrender/Transfer of License(s).’
3. After that, click on ‘Transfer’ against the license number displayed on the screen.
4. Finally, fill in the required details and click on ‘Proceed.’ The transfer application will be filed to DO’s account for further processing.

After filing the application, if there are no objections, the license or certificate gets transferred.

Note:  In case of just wanting to give your food license to someone else, you have to apply for modification/alteration of license. Transfer of license is specifically for situations where the license holder has passed away.

Cost of transfer procedure

The cost of transferring an FSSAI license can vary depending on the circumstances, such as the type of license and the number of years remaining in its validity. However, the FSSAI has not specified any fees for the transfer of FSSAI licenses on its official website. We recommend contacting the FSSAI regional office for the exact cost of the transfer procedure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the transfer of FSSAI licenses is a crucial process in ensuring the continuity of food businesses after the death of the license holder. The process may involve submitting necessary documents, paying fees, and adhering to regulations. If you need help with the transfer of FSSAI licenses, it is advisable to consult with a professional with Food licence registration or contact the FSSAI regional office for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions