FSSAI Registration for Dairy and Milk Processing Units

The dairy industry plays a crucial role in providing milk and milk-based products to millions of people. Ensuring the safety and quality of these products is essential, and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates the dairy industry to maintain food safety standards.

Dairy and milk processing units must obtain FSSAI Registration or license to legally operate in India. This certification ensures that milk and dairy products meet hygiene, quality, and safety standards, protecting consumers from health risks. In this guide, we will explore the importance of FSSAI registration, its benefits, the step-by-step application process, required documents, and compliance guidelines.

Importance of FSSAI Registration for Dairy Units

1. Legal Requirement – It is mandatory for dairy businesses to have FSSAI certification to operate legally in India.

2. Consumer Trust – An FSSAI-certified dairy business assures customers about the quality and safety of the products.

3. Market Expansion – Businesses with FSSAI registration can expand to new markets, including retail stores, supermarkets, and export opportunities.

4. Quality Assurance – FSSAI ensures that dairy products meet hygiene and safety standards, reducing health risks.

5. Avoiding Penalties – Operating without an FSSAI license can result in heavy fines and legal actions.

Types of FSSAI Registration for Dairy Businesses

The type of FSSAI registration required depends on the size and capacity of the dairy unit:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration (For Small Dairy Units)
   
   

• For businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakh.

• Suitable for small milk vendors, home-based dairy businesses, and small-scale milk processing units.

2. FSSAI State License (For Medium-Scale Dairy Units)
   
   

• For businesses with an annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore.

• Required for milk chilling units, processing plants, and medium-sized dairy farms.

3. FSSAI Central License (For Large Dairy Units)
   
   

• For businesses with an annual turnover above Rs. 20 crore.

• Mandatory for large-scale dairy processing units, exporters, and companies involved in interstate dairy supply.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

To apply for FSSAI registration, dairy businesses need to submit the following documents:

1. Identity Proof – Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Voter ID of the business owner.

2. Address Proof – Utility bill, rent agreement, or property documents of the dairy unit.

3. Business Registration Certificate – GST registration, trade license, or company incorporation certificate.

4. Milk Procurement Plan – Details of milk sources, suppliers, and procurement process.

5. Processing Unit Layout Plan – Description of the plant, machinery, and production capacity.

6. Food Safety Management Plan – Hygiene and safety measures followed in the processing unit.

Step-by-Step Process for FSSAI Registration

1. Visit Website – Open the official FSSAI registration portal.

2. Fill Application Form – Enter your name, business details, and food category, and upload your PAN card.

3. Review & Submit – Check all details and submit the form.

4. Pay Fee – Complete the payment online as per your license type.

5. Verify OTP – Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile or email.

6. Inspection (If Required) – Officials may inspect your premises for approval.

7. Get an FSSAI License – Once approved, download your FSSAI license from the website.

Compliance Guidelines for Dairy Units

To maintain FSSAI certification, dairy businesses must adhere to the following hygiene and safety guidelines:

1. Milk Sourcing Standards – Ensure that milk is sourced from hygienic and certified farms.

2. Sanitary Processing Conditions – Maintain cleanliness in milk storage, processing, and packaging areas.

3. Cold Storage Compliance – Use appropriate refrigeration systems to prevent milk spoilage.

4. Quality Testing – Conduct regular quality checks for milk and dairy products to detect contamination.

5. Proper Packaging and Labeling – Follow FSSAI labeling guidelines, including expiry dates, nutritional values, and ingredient details.

6. Employee Hygiene – Workers handling milk and dairy products must maintain high hygiene standards.

7. Periodic Audits – Conduct regular internal audits to ensure ongoing compliance with food safety regulations.

Common Challenges in FSSAI Registration for Dairy Units

1. Document Verification Delays – Processing time may increase if the submitted documents require further verification.

2. Inspection Failures – Businesses failing to meet hygiene and safety standards may face rejection.

3. Lack of Awareness – Small dairy owners may not be fully aware of FSSAI compliance requirements.

4. Updating License Information – Any changes in business operations require FSSAI license modifications.

5. Renewal Issues – Failure to renew FSSAI licenses on time can lead to business interruptions.

Benefits of FSSAI Registration for Dairy Businesses

1. Legal Business Operation – Avoids penalties and ensures smooth business operations.

2. Consumer Confidence – Builds trust among customers by assuring them of quality dairy products.

3. Business Growth – FSSAI registration makes it easier to expand into new markets and collaborate with supermarkets and distributors.

4. Export Opportunities – Dairy businesses with FSSAI certification can export milk and dairy products internationally.

5. Government Subsidies – Eligible businesses can avail government incentives and support schemes for the dairy sector.

Suggested read: Renewing and Upgrading Your FSSAI License

Conclusion

FSSAI registration is essential for all dairy and milk processing units to ensure compliance with food safety standards. By obtaining the appropriate license, businesses can operate legally, maintain hygiene standards, and gain consumer trust. The registration process is straightforward, and businesses must ensure regular compliance to continue benefiting from the certification. Whether running a small dairy farm or a large-scale milk processing plant, securing FSSAI registration is a crucial step toward success in the dairy industry.