Food Processing Certification: Licenses For Food Manufacturing

Last Updated on June 3, 2025 by Admin

The journey from farm to fork is paved with stringent standards and regulations designed to ensure the safety and quality of food products. For businesses in the food processing sector, following these regulations and obtaining the proper license is a critical step towards building trust with consumers and securing a foothold in the competitive market. This article looks into the essentials of food certification in India, offering insights into the types of certifications available, license required for food business in India, the requirements for getting them, and the steps involved in the certification process.

Why does the food industry need ISO Certification in India?

In India, an increase in food technology and consumption is observed due to full-service restaurants. Food quality is dictating regulations, and public awareness is on the rise. ISO helps to maintain credibility and accomplish quality in businesses through food production and consumption. Having certified ISO standards set internationally and implementing them helps in achieving intended food safety management standards, trust, and minimizing contamination.

Having provided standards such as ISO 22000, it helps companies prove their commitment towards safe food practices. These food certifications also aid in fostering credibility in international markets, therefore encouraging exports and meeting FSSAI regulations. ISO certification optimizes operational efficiency by increasing procedural standards, waste, and improving scrutiny from various parts of the supply chain.

India is identified as a competitive market, and with the existence of food safety enigmas, scandals pose a grave reputational threat. Here starting a food business requires an FSSAI license for legal compliance and food safety assurance. Under these circumstances, having ISO certification can be helpful. For trust and long term growth, it is essential for increasing standards in the Indian food industry to adapt to ISO techniques. Food manager and food processing certifications validate expertise in hygiene, safety, and operational standards. These credentials, often supported by FICSI or FSSAI, enhance workforce credibility and ensure adherence to national food safety norms.

Types Of Food Certifications

There are many types of food certifications, each helping ensure that our food is safe, high-quality, and trustworthy.

FSSAI Licensing

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India-FSSAI licence is the core of food certification in India. This licence is mandatory for every food business operator in the country. It acts as the primary certification required for food industry operations. It ensures that the food is safe to eat and meets the quality standards the government sets.

ISO 22000: Food Safety Management

ISO 22000 certification outlines the requirements for a comprehensive food safety management system. It pertains to every organisation in the food chain. It promotes their ability to control food safety risks and ensures that food is safe for people to eat.

HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point)

The HACCP method is a planned, preventative way to keep food from hazards. It identifies the physical, chemical, and biological risks/hazards in the production process that could make the end product unsafe and also suggests ways to lower/eliminate these risks to a safe level.

GHP (Good Hygiene Practices)

These are protocols practiced in food hygiene and safety concerned with ensuring cleanliness, safety, and hygiene in all areas of food production and handling. GHP includes hand washing, equipment sanitization, cleanliness of the premises, pest control, and food storage. These practices aid in the prevention of contamination and foodborne diseases while maintaining food quality which is the cornerstone of food safety programs such as HACCP and ISO 22000.

Organic Certification

For businesses dealing in organic food products, organic certification verifies that their products have been produced using environmentally and animal-friendly farming methods. This certification is increasingly important in India, where consumer demand for organic products is rising.

AGMARK certification

It is for agricultural produce and assures that agri produce will be confirmed to the Directorate of Marketing & Inspection(DMI), Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers welfare under Agricultural Produce(Grading Marking)Act, 1937.

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standard)

It grants licence to manufacturing covering every industrial discipline but FSSR regulation 2011 prescribed mandatory certification for certain food products like infant formula, milk cereal/processed cereal based weaning food, packaged drinking water/mineral water, milk powder(SMP/Partly SMP), condensed milk, partly skimmed and skimmed condensed milk.

Halal Certification

Halal Certification corresponds to the compliance of products related to food with preset standards in Islamic Laws. It guarantees that the ingredients, processes, and even handling all observed Halal guidelines without the contamination of forbidden elements such as alcohol and pork. This certification is very important for firms that wish to reach Muslim consumers because it builds trust, increases market access, and promotes responsible and patriotic food business practices around the world.

What are the Requirements for Food Industry Certification

The journey to obtaining certifications required for food industry in India involves several key steps and adherence to specific requirements.

Implementation of Safety and Quality Standards

Businesses must demonstrate a robust implementation of safety and quality management systems tailored to their operations. It includes establishing procedures for hazard analysis, risk assessment, and control measures to ensure product safety and quality.

Compliance with Legal Regulations

Adhering to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and other relevant legislation is mandatory. It includes compliance with standards for additives, labelling, packaging, and more, ensuring that businesses operate within the legal framework.

Documentation and Record Keeping

Maintaining detailed records of food safety management activities, including training logs, hazard analysis, and compliance reports, is crucial. These documents play a significant role during the certification audit process.

Staff Training and Competence

Ensuring that staff are adequately trained in food safety practices and understand the regulatory requirements is essential. Competent personnel are the backbone of any successful food safety management system.

How to Get Certification

Understanding the path to achieving certification required for food industry in India involves a structured approach

Identify the Needed Certification

Start by identifying which certifications are most relevant to your business based on the type of food processing activities you undertake and the market requirements. For instance, obtaining organic certification demonstrates adherence to specific production standards if your business focuses on organic products.

Prepare Your Business

Align your business practices with the standards required for certification. It might involve revamping your food safety management systems, training employees, or changing production processes.

Documentation

Compile and organise all necessary documentation demonstrating your compliance with the standards. This will be critical during the audit process.

Apply for Certification

Submit your application to the relevant certification body with the required documentation and application fee.

Audit Process

The certification body will comprehensively audit your business practices, reviewing documentation and assessing on-site practices against the certification standards.

Certification and Continuous Improvement

You will get your certification upon successful completion of the audit. It’s crucial to view this not as the final step but as part of an ongoing process of continuous improvement and compliance.

Conclusion

The journey towards achieving the certification required for food industry operations in India emphasises the adherence to standards and the cultivation of a profound understanding and commitment to food safety and quality. The right training serves as the keystone in preparing businesses for the rigorous process of obtaining food certification in India. It equips teams with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to meet and exceed the stringent requirements set forth by regulatory bodies. Therefore, investing in comprehensive training programs is indispensable for any entity aiming to secure the certifications required for food industry in India. This educational foundation paves the way for certification success. It promotes continuous improvement and excellence in food safety practices, ensuring businesses adhere to regulations and contribute positively to the industry’s overall quality and safety standards.

FAQs

Is FSSAI licensing mandatory for all food businesses in India?

Yes, obtaining an FSSAI license is mandatory for all food business operators in India, regardless of their size or type of operation.

Can a business hold multiple food certifications?

Absolutely. Many businesses pursue multiple certifications to meet various regulatory and market requirements, demonstrating their commitment to food safety and quality.

How often do food certifications need to be renewed?

The renewal frequency depends on the certification. Generally, certifications like FSSAI registration/license validity for a period of minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 5 years whereas others like ISO 22000 have a three-year validity.

What is the cost of obtaining food certifications in India?

The cost varies depending on the certification type, the business size, and the complexity of the processes involved. It’s advisable to consult with the certifying body for detailed cost information.

What is the role of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in the certification process?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a crucial role in certifying food products by setting safety and quality standards. It ensures that food businesses comply with hygiene, labeling, and packaging norms. FSSAI certification enhances consumer trust and facilitates the legal sale and distribution of food products in India.

Are there any certifications related to environmental sustainability in food processing?

Yes, certifications like ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System), Rainforest Alliance, and LEED are related to environmental sustainability in food processing. These certifications ensure that food production minimizes environmental impact through efficient resource use, waste reduction, and sustainable practices—promoting eco-friendly operations across the food supply chain.

Is there a specific certification required for food exports from India?

Yes, exporting food products from India requires specific certifications to ensure compliance with both domestic regulations and the standards of importing countries. The primary certifications include:
1. FSSAI Central License: Mandatory for all food exporters, this license ensures that food products meet India’s safety and quality standards. Each export facility must obtain a separate license, and businesses must also possess an Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) .

2. Export Health Certificate (EHC): Issued by the Export Inspection Council (EIC) under the Ministry of Commerce, this certificate verifies that perishable food items comply with international safety standards, facilitating their acceptance in global markets . (Export Health Certificate (EHC) for exports of Food Products)

3. APEDA Certification: For agricultural and processed food products, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) provides necessary certifications and oversees the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) for organic exports . (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)

These certifications are crucial for ensuring that Indian food exports are safe, meet international quality standards, and are accepted in global markets.

What are the penalties for not having the required food processing certifications?

Failure to obtain required food processing certifications can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines, suspension or cancellation of licenses, and even imprisonment under the FSSAI Act. Uncertified products may be seized or recalled, and businesses risk reputational damage, legal action, and loss of market access—especially in export scenarios.