FSSAI Annual Return Filing

At Vijendra & Co, we specialize in offering comprehensive compliance solutions for food businesses, ensuring adherence to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations. One of the essential compliance aspects that food businesses in India must fulfill is FSSAI Annual Return Filing. This statutory requirement plays a critical role in maintaining transparency and ensuring food safety standards across the supply chain.

What is FSSAI Annual Return Filing?

Under the FSSAI regulations, food business operators (FBOs) with a food license are required to file the FSSAI Annual Return. According to the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Enterprises) Regulations, 2011, the FSSAI requires yearly returns from specific types of food enterprises.

This return contains important details such as the quantity of food manufactured, handled, imported, exported, and sold during the financial year. Filing this return allows FSSAI to maintain updated records of the business operations of food handlers and processors and monitor compliance with safety standards.

FSSAI Return Filing: An Overview

There are primarily two types of FSSAI returns filed by eligible food businesses:

• All food makers, importers, labelers, and repackers must submit Form D1 (Annual Return).
• Form D2 (Half-Yearly Return): Used by companies who produce or import milk and milk products.

The FSSAI Annual Return Filing specifically refers to the submission of Form D1, which is due annually and includes critical operational details of the business.

Purpose of the Annual Food Business Return

The main objective behind the FSSAI Annual Return Filing is to ensure that food businesses are operating within the scope of their licenses and are in compliance with food safety laws. Regulatory agencies use the information gathered from these filings to:

• Maintain oversight of food production and distribution.
• Analyze food trends and volumes in different sectors.
• Identify potential non-compliance and address public safety concerns.
• Aid in planning policy and regulatory interventions.

Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Returns

The requirement is limited to specific categories of license holders. As per FSSAI regulations, the following food business operators must file annual returns:

• All food manufacturers (including repackers and relabelers).
• Importers of food products.
• Food processors including those handling meat and poultry products.
• Businesses engaged in manufacturing, processing, relabeling, repacking, importing, or exporting food.

These entities must possess an FSSAI Central License or a State License, depending on the scale of operations. Businesses operating under basic FSSAI registration are generally not required to submit annual returns.

Exempted Entities from Filing Returns

Certain categories of businesses are exempt from this requirement to reduce compliance burdens on small-scale operators:

• Food business operators with only a basic registration.
• Retailers and distributors not involved in manufacturing or processing.
• Food transporters and storage facilities with basic FSSAI registration.

Deadline for Food Business Annual Return

The deadline for FSSAI Annual Return Filing is 31st May every year. The return pertains to the financial year ending on 31st March and must be submitted within 60 days thereafter.

There may be regulatory fines and reputational risks if this deadline is missed. Businesses must ensure timely submission to stay in compliance and avoid scrutiny.

Penalty for Late or Non-Submission of the FSSAI Annual Return

Non-compliance attracts penalties. According to FSSAI regulations, failure to file the annual return within the prescribed time limit results in a penalty of ?100 per day of delay.

More serious repercussions, such as suspension or cancellation of the FSSAI license, may follow persistent non-compliance. Hence, timely and accurate submission is critical.

Information Needed for Filing the FSSAI Annual Return

To complete the filing, food businesses need to furnish several key details, including:

• The food business's name and address
• The FSSAI license number
• Types of food products manufactured, imported, or handled
• Quantity of each product category
• The origin of raw ingredients and the final product's destination
• Date of manufacture and dispatch
• Mode of transportation and storage details

To guarantee smooth return filing, it is crucial to have correct and current records maintained throughout the year.

Food Businesses Can File Their Annual Returns Online

FSSAI has streamlined the return filing process via the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal, which allows food business operators to:

• Log in using their license credentials.
• Complete Form D1 with the necessary information.
• Upload necessary documents, if applicable.
• Submit the return digitally.

The online process ensures better tracking, reduced paperwork, and increased transparency.

How CS Vijendra & Co Can Assist with FSSAI Annual Return Filings

At Vijendra & Co, we provide end-to-end support for FSSAI Annual Return Filing, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and timely submission. Our services are tailored to meet the regulatory obligations of food business operators, regardless of scale or complexity.

Our Assistance Includes:

• Compliance Expertise: Our professionals are well-versed with FSSAI regulations and regularly monitor updates issued by the authority. We ensure your company abides by the most recent food safety regulations, reducing the risk of fines or return refusal.
• Document Verification and Collection: We assist in gathering and confirming all operational data and documents needed for the filing. From license details to product and quantity information, we ensure your return is backed by accurate and complete documentation.
• Form D1 Preparation: In accordance with FSSAI guidelines, we help prepare and complete Form D1, including data organization, product categorization, and interpreting legal requirements relevant to your operations.
• Timely Submission: With proactive monitoring, we track submission deadlines and file returns well before the 31st May cutoff, avoiding last-minute errors and ensuring smooth compliance.
• Avoiding Penalties: Timely and accurate filing with our support ensures avoidance of financial penalties and potential license issues through a structured checklist and timeline.
• Compliance Updates: We keep clients informed of any amendments or changes in FSSAI guidelines that may impact return filing, providing regular alerts and guidance.

By partnering with Vijendra & Co, food business operators can focus on growth while we manage the intricacies of FSSAI Annual Return Filing. Our commitment to regulatory compliance and professional integrity ensures your food business remains audit-ready and legally compliant.

With our professional services tailored to your needs, let us assist you in navigating the complexities of food safety laws.