Obtaining a railway catering FSSAI licence and FSSAI licence under railway premises is mandatory to comply with the law and to foster confidence among the customers. FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) has set certain guidelines for the food businesses and this includes those operating within the railway ecosystem. This blog will guide you through the steps to get your FSSAI Licence under Railway Premises.

India’s railway network is among the largest in the world and carries more than 23 million people daily. Such humongous number of passengers generate enormous demand for food services ranging from small tea shops to large catering outlets. The FSSAI, through the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, requires that every food business operator (FBO) currently food manufacturing/processing, packaging, storage and distribution in India should obtain a FSSAI registration or license. This is one important step that needs to happen to make sure all traveling consumers have safe and quality food options. A food business operating without railway catering FSSAI licence and FSSAI licence under railway premises can be penalised heavily, including fine of up to ₹5 lakh and imprisonment. So, having the right licence is not only a legal obligation but also a business necessity to operate successfully and to avoid legal hassles.

Why FSSAI Licence is Mandatory for Food Business on Railway Premises

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for the licensing and regulating entities that handle food in any capacity for the entire country. FSSAI central licensing in particular is crucial with respect to railway premises. This really shows the commitment of the government to make sure that the passengers get food that is safe and hygienically prepared. Food businesses without this FSSAI licence won't be permitted to operate on railway premises and hence can’t secure contracts or tenders from the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). The license also allows you to brand your business as being trustworthy and it is compulsory to print the 14-digit FSSAI number on all food packages.

Who Needs FSSAI Licence in Railway Premises (Vendors, Canteens, IRCTC Partners)

Not just big companies, the requirement for an FSSAI licence applies to all food business operators (FBOs) functioning on railway premises. This includes:

Caterers: Both on-board and platform-based caterers.
Restaurants: Restaurants operating on or near railway stations.
Clubs and Canteens: This includes home-based canteens and those serving at railway offices.
Petty Retailers & Hawkers: Petty retailers, temporary stall-keepers and also tea stall vendors should have FSSAI registration.

Types of FSSAI Licence Required for Railway Food Business

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The type of FSSAI licence to be obtained is defined by the business turnover and scale of operations.

The FSSAI licence for IRCTC vendors is typically a Central License because vendors’ nature of operation is across different states.

Documents Required for Railway Premises FSSAI Licence

To apply for an FSSAI licence under railway premises, you'll need to prepare a set of documents. For a central license, the required documents include:

Form 'B' duly completed and signed by the proprietor or authorized person.
Processing unit blue print (for manufacturing/processing units).
Name and contact information of directors, partners or proprietors.
List of machinery and equipment with their capacity and horsepower.
Government Photo ID & Address proof of approved signatory
List of food categories to be produced.
Authority letter indicating name and address of responsible person.
Water analysis report from recognized lab (For units where water is used in food preparation).
Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan
Recall plan (if applicable).
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from municipal district board.
Form IX along with the Board Resolution.
Turn-over documents or self-declaration of the number of transporters and vehicles.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI Licence in Railway Premises

Applying for your FSSAI licence under railway premises can be a simple process with the right guidance.

Online Application: Visit the FSSAI's FoSCoS portal and fill out the new registration form.
Document Upload: Upload all the necessary documents mentioned above.
Fee Payment: Pay the required application fee, which is ₹7,500 for a central license. There could be an initial fee of ₹1,000 plus GST and the rest will be payable upon approval.
Application Submission: Submit the application and you’ll receive a reference number to track its status.
Inspection & Approval: The FSSAI authority may inspect your premises within 7 days. If the application is in compliance, approval can come within 30 days.

Renewal and Compliance for Railway Food Business FSSAI Licence

An FSSAI licence under railway premises is valid upto five years. To avoid penalties, it is important to renew the licence well in advance. Applications for renewals can be made from the expiry date and within a period of 180 days. Late renewals are subject to a daily fine of ₹100 or higher penalties. For a seamless renewal, it's recommended to handle it well in advance. Having a valid FSSAI licence for IRCTC vendors is essential for the seamless operations and business for the IRCTC vendors.

How Lawfinity Helps Vendors and Caterers with Railway FSSAI Compliance

FSSAI rules and regulations are usually seen as difficult to navigate and understand. This is why Lawfinity offer expert guidance to simplify the process of obtaining your FSSAI licence under railway premises. We offer assistance in the following,

Documentation Preparation: We make sure all of your documents are properly filled out and compiled.
Online Application: We manage the appropriate FSSAI applications on behalf of clients within the FoSCoS portal.
Query Resolution: We act as your representative with the FSSAI authorities for queries or discrepancies.
Compliance & Renewal: We provide timely reminders for renewals and ensure continued compliance. Trust & believe in Lawfinity to make your railway catering FSSAI licence process hassle-free.