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Accurate & Timely FSSAI Return Filing
Stay compliant with food safety laws. Let Lawfinity handle your D-1 & D-2 return filings.
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Introduction and Its Compliance
The Food safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has put in place an obligation on food business operators (FBOs) to submit FSSAI returns on a regular basis, pursuant to the compliance under the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration) Regulations, 2011. For instance, with FSSAI Returns, food businesses are made to work transparently, are asked to report their business and keep detailed records of food produced, sold and imported. Lawfinity supports companies in India file FSSAI return smoothly and in full compliance of the food safety laws and with the interest of business and consumer in view.
Why It Is Needed
FSSAI return filing is a compulsion under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 for controlling and directing the food business operations. It vouches for the proper record of food production, sales and distribution in order to assist in offering transparency and accountability within businesses. Timely filing not only safeguards against penalties, license suspension or cancellation due to non-compliance but also assures regulators and consumers that the business adheres to the prescribed safety and hygiene standards, thereby reinforcing trust and credibility in the marketplace. By using Lawfinity, you will remain compliant and protect your food business from potential legal challenges.
Benefits and Advantages
- Smooth License Renewal Regular filing of FSSAI returns simplifies the license renewal process and helps maintain an uninterrupted business operation.
- Transparency & Traceability Filing returns ensures accurate record-keeping of food products, production capacity, sales and distribution which promotes transparency.
- Avoid Legal Consequences Timely FSSAI return filing avoids heavy penalties, show-cause notices and even license suspension or cancellation.
- Enhances Consumer Confidence A compliant food business builds credibility and trust among consumers and business partners.
Eligibility Criteria
- All food business operators (FBOs) with FSSAI License (central or state) must file FSSAI returns.
- FSSAI Annual Return (Form D-1) is mandatory for manufacturers, importers and exporters.
- FSSAI Half-Yearly Return (Form D-2) is applicable to manufacturers of milk and milk products.
Documents Required
To file FSSAI returns, businesses typically need the following:
- Valid FSSAI License Certificate
- Monthly production/processing records
- Quantity of food products manufactured or handled
- List of products exported or imported
- Details of food categories and batch numbers
- Invoice copies for purchases and sales
- Details of stock held at the beginning and end of the period
Steps For Filing Return
- Consultation with Lawfinity’s compliance experts to assess filing requirements:
- Collection and verification of business activity records, production data and invoices:
- Preparation of FSSAI Return (Form D-1 and D-2 where applicable):
- Filing of the return with FSSAI online portal:
- Confirmation of successful filing and providing acknowledgment to the client:
- Ongoing compliance support and reminders for future filings:
Penalties
- Non-filing of FSSAI Returns may attract a penalty of ₹100 per day of default.
- Continuous non-compliance can lead to cancellation or suspension of FSSAI License.
- Legal prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act may also apply in severe cases.
Timelines
Annual Return
Form D-1 31st May every year
Half-Yearly Return (for milk/milk products)
Form D-2 30th September & 31st March
Timelines may vary depending on document verification and government approvals.
Fee
Frequently Asked Questions
Because every great business starts with the right answers.
All FSSAI licensed food business operators (manufacturers, importers, exporters, processors) must file annual or half-yearly returns.
No, FSSAI returns are mandatory only for license holders, not for businesses with basic registration.
Form D-1 is the annual return to be filed by all licensed food manufacturers, importers and exporters.
Form D-2 is the half-yearly return filed by licensed milk and milk product manufacturers.
A penalty of ₹100 per day is levied for delay in filing FSSAI returns.
There is currently no provision for revision after submission; hence accuracy at the time of filing is crucial.
Production, purchase, sales data, quantity handled, product details, batch numbers and export/import information.
Lawfinity provides end-to-end assistance, from documentation to accurate preparation and timely filing of FSSAI returns.
You may face business disruption and legal consequences; Lawfinity ensures timely filings to avoid such situations.
Voices of Success
Hear from those who have thrived with us and discover how businesses have transformed and grown with our expert guidance and support.
Anil Yadav
Shaperz India Grain Private Limited
“From FSSAI to Trade License, Lawfinity handled all our approvals efficiently. One-stop solution for all licensing needs.”
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