Fssai Return Filing

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of food products in India. One of the critical aspects of complying with FSSAI regulations is the timely and accurate Filing of FSSAI returns. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about FSSAI return filing, including the types of returns, the filing process, deadlines, penalties, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

1. Compliance: It ensures that food businesses comply with the legal requirements set by FSSAI.
2. Accountability: Regular returns keep the regulatory body informed about the operations of food businesses.
3. Transparency: It promotes transparency in the food business operations, ensuring public safety.
4. Avoid Penalties: Timely filing helps avoid hefty fines and penalties.

1. Form D1 (Annual Return): This return is mandatory for all licensed food manufacturers, importers, exporters, packers, and others. It details the quantity of food manufactured, exported, or imported.
2. Form D2 (Half-Yearly Return): This is specific to food manufacturers involved in the manufacturing of milk and milk products. It provides details about the quantity of milk/milk products produced or handled.

• Food Manufacturers
• Food Importers
• Food Exporters
• Food Packers
• Dairy Businesses (specifically for Form D2)

• FSSAI License Number
• Business details (name, address, contact information)
• Details of food products manufactured/imported/exported
• Quantities of food products handled
• Purchase and sales details

Visit the official FSSAI website and log in using your credentials. If you do not have an account, you will need to register and create one.

Once logged in, navigate to the section dedicated to return filing. Select the appropriate return form (Form D1 or Form D2).

Enter all the necessary details in the form accurately. Ensure that there are no discrepancies in the data provided.

Carefully review all the information entered before submitting the form. Any errors or omissions can lead to penalties or rejection of the return.

After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment. Keep a copy of this acknowledgment for your records.

• Form D1 (Annual Return): Must be filed by 31st May of every financial year.
• Form D2 (Half-Yearly Return): Must be filed by 31st May and 30th November of every financial year.

• Late Filing: A fine of ₹100 per day beyond the due date.
• Non-Filing: Can lead to cancellation or suspension of the FSSAI license, alongside hefty fines.

1. Incorrect Data Entry: Ensure all details are accurate and consistent with your business records.
2. Missing Deadlines: Adhere to the deadlines to avoid fines.
3. Ignoring Acknowledgments: Always keep a copy of the submission acknowledgment.
4. Inconsistent Records: Ensure that your purchase and sales records match the data provided in the returns.

1. Compliance: Avoid legal issues and fines by staying compliant.
2. Reputation: Demonstrates the credibility and reliability of your food business.
3. Operational Efficiency: Helps in maintaining accurate records and streamlined operations.
4. Regulatory Trust: Builds trust with regulatory authorities, facilitating smoother business operations.

1. Business Details: Name, address, FSSAI license number, contact information.
2. Product Details: List of food products manufactured/imported/exported.
3. Quantity Details: Quantity of each product handled during the financial year.
4. Sales Information: Details of sales within the country and exports, if applicable.
5. Purchase Information: Details of raw materials and other purchases.

• Ensure all details match your business records.
• Double-check quantities and values to avoid discrepancies.
• Use standard measurement units for quantities.
• For exports, mention the country of export and corresponding quantities.

1. Business Details: Name, address, FSSAI license number, contact information.
2. Milk/Milk Product Details: List of milk/milk products manufactured.
3. Quantity Details: Quantity of each product handled during the half-year.
4. Purchase Information: Details of milk procured and other inputs.

• Provide precise details of milk/milk products.
• Ensure quantities are accurate and consistent with your production records.
• Mention the source of milk procurement.

• Integrate with Existing Systems: Sync with your inventory and sales systems to gather data automatically.
• Reduce Errors: Minimize human errors by automating data entry and calculations.
• Reminders and Alerts: Provide timely reminders for upcoming deadlines to avoid late filings.
• Record Keeping: Maintain digital records of submissions and acknowledgments for easy access and verification.

• User Guidance: Step-by-step instructions for filing returns.
• Secure Access: Secure login and data handling to protect your business information.
• Real-Time Updates: Instant updates on submission status and acknowledgment.

1. Who is required to file FSSAI returns?

All licensed food manufacturers, importers, exporters, and packers are required to file FSSAI returns.

2. What are the types of FSSAI returns?

The two main types of FSSAI returns are Form D1 (Annual Return) and Form D2 (Half-Yearly Return for milk and milk products).

3. What is the deadline for filing FSSAI returns?

Form D1 must be filed by 31st May of every financial year, while Form D2 must be filed by 31st May and 30th November of every financial year.

4. What are the penalties for late filing of FSSAI returns?

A fine of ₹100 per day is levied for late filing of FSSAI returns.

5. Can FSSAI returns be filed online?

Yes, FSSAI returns can be filed online through the official FSSAI website.

6. What information is required for filing FSSAI returns?

Information such as FSSAI license number, business details, product details, quantities handled, and sales information is required.

7. How can I avoid errors in FSSAI return filing?

Ensure accurate data entry, double-check all details, and maintain consistent records with your business operations.

8. Can I amend my FSSAI return after submission?

If you realize an error after submission, you should contact the FSSAI authority for guidance on making corrections.

9. What happens if I fail to file FSSAI returns?

Non-filing can lead to cancellation or suspension of your FSSAI license and other legal consequences.

10. Are there any exemptions for small food businesses regarding FSSAI returns?

All licensed food businesses, regardless of size, must comply with FSSAI return filing requirements.

Filing FSSAI returns is a crucial compliance activity for all food businesses in India. Adhering to the guidelines, meeting deadlines, and ensuring accuracy in the data provided will help maintain a smooth and lawful operation. Leveraging technology and automated solutions can further simplify the process, making it more efficient and error-free. By following this comprehensive guide and addressing common questions, food businesses can ensure they remain compliant with FSSAI regulations, thereby fostering a trustworthy and safe food ecosystem.