FSSAI directions for facilitating food businesses during the prevailing COVID-19

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India through Press Release dated April 20, 2021 has issued directions for facilitating food businesses during the prevailing COVID-19 conditions to be in effect till 30.06.2021:

Directions, with immediate effect have been issued to:

1. Allow FBOs, other than manufacturers, to temporarily operate their businesses on the basis of a valid receipt
   of FSSAI license/ registration application having 17- digit Application Reference Number (ARN) generated
   upon online application and fee payment on FoSCoS. This will enable quick expansion of logistic supply
   chains, warehouses, retail outlets, catering, food service establishments etc wherever required. New
   businesses can start operating once they successfully file a complete application on FOSCOS. This is an
   interim relief measure, the licence/ registration will need to be secured before the expiry of the relaxation.
2. Manufacturers are allowed to increase/ enhance their capacity, on the basis of a valid receipt of FSSAI
   license/ registration application having 17- digit Application Reference Number (ARN) generated upon
   online application and fee payment on FoSCoS. This will enable immediate upscaling of production facilities
   without waiting for regulatory approvals.
3. No routine inspections are required to be done except in case of high risk food product viz. Milk and milk
   products, slaughter houses, meat and meat products etc. However, food safety authorities can conduct
   inspections in case of select cases on basis of risk profiling or in case of any food emergency/ incidents and
   complaints. Where feasible, inspections can be done by e-inspection.
4. The deadline for returns for 2020-21 has been extended till 30th, June 2021. All returns are required to be
   filed online on FOSCOS.
5. No penalty shall be payable for late filing of application for renewal of licenses.