The Food Safety and Standards Act provides a complete mechanism for FSSAI Appeal and FSSAI Adjudication to help food businesses challenge penalties, incorrect inspection findings, or other orders issued by the FSSAI authority. Whether you are a new applicant undergoing FSSAI Licence Registration in India or an established business facing compliance proceedings, understanding this process ensures fair redressal and protection of your rights.

WHEN TO FILE AN APPEAL UNDER FSSAI

Food Business Operators (FBOs) can file a FSSAI Appeal when they receive:

A penalty order under Section 68
Suspension or cancellation of licence/registration
Non-compliance directions issued by the FSSAI authority
Adverse findings during inspection or sampling
Orders issued after FSSAI Adjudication

An appeal is most effective when filed immediately after an order, especially during or after FSSAI Licence Registration in India, where decisions may affect operations. Filing a timely FSSAI Appeal helps prevent business disruption while maintaining statutory compliance.

ROLE OF THE ADJUDICATING OFFICER IN FSSAI ADJUDICATION

The Adjudicating Officer (AO)—usually an Additional District Magistrate—handles cases related to violations of the Food Safety Act that do not involve imprisonment. During FSSAI Adjudication, the AO:

Reviews complaints filed by the FSSAI Designated Officer
Issues notices to food business operators
Conducts hearings and evaluates evidence
Determines liability based on compliance standards
Imposes penalties or directs corrective actions
Allows representation through legal professionals such as Lawfinity

The AO plays a crucial corrective and penal role in maintaining FSSAI compliance across the food industry.

PENALTY REDRESSAL STEPS IN FSSAI APPEAL & ADJUDICATION

If a penalty is imposed, the redressal process includes the following steps:

1. Receiving the Penalty Order: The Designated Officer or AO issues a written order detailing the violation and penalty.

2. Filing a Response or Written Representation: The FBO may submit documents, inspection reports, compliance certificates, and legal arguments before the AO.

3. Initiating an FSSAI Appeal: If unsatisfied with the adjudication order, the FBO can file a FSSAI Appeal to the Food Safety Commissioner.

4. Commissioner-Level Review: The Commissioner evaluates the grounds, facts, and legality of the order imposed during FSSAI Adjudication.

5. Further Appeal (If Required): In some cases, further appeal may be filed before the Food Safety Appellate Tribunal or High Court.

This structured process ensures fair adjudication and legal protection to food business operators following FSSAI Licence Registration in India.

HOW LAWFINITY WILL HELP YOU

Lawfinity provides end-to-end assistance for FSSAI Licence Registration in India, FSSAI Appeal, and FSSAI Adjudication matters. Our services include:

Examining penalty orders and drafting strong appeals
Preparing defence documents and compliance records
Representing clients before the Adjudicating Officer
Filing appeals with the Commissioner or Appellate Tribunal
Ensuring ongoing FSSAI compliance to avoid future penalties
Providing strategic legal advice to safeguard business interests

With Lawfinity, you receive comprehensive support throughout every stage of the appeal and adjudication process.