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FSSAI Annual Return Filing

RAJESH KUMAR PATRA

Business Advisor • Updated on: Mar 18, 2025

IndiaFilings is your trusted partner for a seamless, stress-free experience helps you to file Food Business Annual Returns before the FSSAI annual return due date. We understand the critical importance of compliance in the food industry, and our dedicated team of experts is committed to helping you swiftly fulfill your regulatory obligations. Our comprehensive services are designed to ensure that your food business operates in full compliance with the regulations of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), thereby safeguarding both your business and the well-being of your consumers. With IndiaFilings by your side, navigating the complexities of Annual Return FSSAI filings becomes effortless, enabling you to concentrate on your core mission – providing safe and delectable food to your valued customers.

FSSAI Return Filing

Following the regulations set forth by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), every food business holding an FSSAI license is obligated to submit an annual return individually. This requirement applies to each license held, regardless of whether the same Food Business Operator possesses multiple licenses.

Purpose of the Annual Food Business Return

The Annual Food Business Return ensures that food businesses adhere to FSSAI regulations and maintain transparency in their operations.

By submitting the annual return, businesses provide essential information to the FSSAI concerning their operations, encompassing food products' production, handling, storage, and distribution. Food business operators should acknowledge the importance of this annual return and ensure its timely submission. Failure to adhere to this requirement may result in penalties or, in more severe cases, the suspension of the FSSAI license, posing a risk to the business's ongoing operations.

Food Business Operators (FBOs) Eligible for Annual Return Submission

The annual return in Form D1 FSSAI must be filed online with the Food Licensing Authority by the following categories of Food Business Operators (FBOs) for the type of food products they manufactured or sold in the preceding financial year:

• Food manufacturers
• Labelers
• Importers
• Packers

Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI returns

The requirement to file FSSAI returns applies to specific categories of Food Business Operators (FBOs) in India, as outlined below:

• Business Turnover: FBOs with a business turnover exceeding Rs.12 lakhs must file FSSAI returns.
• Involvement in Food Activities: FBOs engaged in various food-related activities such as importing, selling, manufacturing, exporting, storing, distributing, handling, or transporting any food product must file FSSAI returns.
• Milk Manufacturing and Distribution: FBOs involved in manufacturing and distributing milk are also required to file FSSAI returns.

Exempted Entities from Filing Returns

It's important to note that the FSSAI has issued a notification specifying certain entities that are exempt from filing the annual return FSSAI. These exempted entities include:

• Fast-food joints
• Restaurants
• Grocery stores
• Canteens

Deadline for Food Business Annual Return

Following Clause 2.1.13(1) of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulation, 2011, all licensed Manufacturers and Importers are required to submit their Annual Return using Form D1 FSSAI no later than May 31st each year. This return should cover the activities conducted during the previous Financial Year. Ensure to file this return before the FSSAI annual return due date to avoid penalty.

FSSAI Annual Return Penalty for Late or Non-Submission

Any delay in filing the Food Business Annual Return beyond May 31 each year shall attract a penalty of Rs. 100 per day for delay until the date of filing of the return. The maximum penalty levied shall be at most five times the annual license fees.

Information Needed for Filing the FSSAI Annual Return

When completing the FSSAI Annual Return, the Food Business Operator (FBO) is required to furnish the following details:

• Name of the product manufactured or imported.
• Size of the container, packaging, or bulk packaging.
• Quantity measured in Metric Tons.
• Selling price of the food products per kilogram or per unit of packaging.
• Value of the Food Product.
• Quantity of imported goods measured in kilograms.
• A comprehensive list of the countries or ports from which the food products are imported.

Online Submission of Annual Returns for Food Businesses

On December 18, 2020, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) released a notification outlining the updated guidelines for filing annual returns in the food business sector. As per this notification, FSSAI now requires food businesses engaged in the manufacturing and importing of food products to submit their annual returns online, starting from the financial year 2020-2021.

How IndiaFilings Can Assist with FSSAI Annual Return Filings

At IndiaFilings, we understand the importance of timely and accurate FSSAI Annual Return filings for Food Business Operators (FBOs). We prepare the proper FSSAI annual return format and file it before the FSSAI return due date.

• Compliance Expertise: Our experts provide clear guidance on the FSSAI Annual Return filing process.
• Document Collection and Verification: We assist in collecting and organizing the required information and documents needed for the FSSAI Annual Return.
• Form D1 Preparation: We prepare the FSSAI Annual Return in the prescribed Form D1, ensuring all relevant details are correctly filled out.
• Timely Submission: We inform you about the FSSAI annual return last date to ensure you file your FSSAI Annual Return on time, avoiding penalties.

Contact Us Now to File Your FSSAI Annual Return and Ensure Food Safety Compliance for Your Business.

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