Do Tea and Coffee Manufacturers Need an FSSAI License? Key Rules

Tea and coffee manufacturers in India play a vital role in the food sector, serving millions who enjoy their daily cup. But whether you’re running a tea estate, processing coffee beans, or packaging ready-to-drink beverages, you’re likely wondering: do I need an FSSAI license? The short answer is yes, but the type of license and compliance requirements depend on your business operations.

What FSSAI License Do Tea and Coffee Manufacturers Need?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) requires all food businesses to obtain either an FSSAI registration or license, depending on their scale and nature of operations. For tea and coffee manufacturers, this typically falls under the category of food processing or manufacturing.

There are three types of FSSAI licenses:

• Basic registration: For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
• State license: For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
• Central license: For larger manufacturers with turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or those involved in interstate trade/export/import.

If you’re packaging tea, roasting coffee beans, or producing instant coffee, you’ll likely need either a state or central license, depending on your turnover. Always confirm the latest turnover thresholds and requirements on the official FoSCoS portal.

Key FSSAI Tea Coffee Regulations to Remember

Tea and coffee manufacturing falls under the food processing sector, which means compliance with specific safety and quality standards. Here are some of the main regulations to keep in mind:

1. Hygiene standards: Your manufacturing unit must meet prescribed hygiene and sanitation requirements.
2. Labeling rules: Packaged tea and coffee must include accurate labeling as per FSSAI standards, such as ingredients, net quantity, manufacturing date, expiry date, and nutritional information.
3. Additives approval: If you’re using flavoring agents or additives in your products, ensure they are permitted under FSSAI guidelines.
4. Testing protocols: Regular testing of raw materials and finished products from NABL-accredited labs is often required to ensure compliance.

If you’re exporting tea or coffee, additional documentation may be required, including an FSSAI central license. For more details, see Do Food Importers Need an FSSAI License? Key Requirements Explained.

What Documents Will They Actually Ask For?

When applying for an FSSAI license, tea and coffee manufacturers are required to submit several documents. Here’s a general checklist:

• Form B (completed application form)
• Proof of business ownership (including incorporation certificate or GST registration)
• Identity proof of the owner
• Address proof of the premises (rental agreement, utility bill, etc.)
• Layout plan of the manufacturing unit
• List of equipment and machinery used
• Food safety management plan (or HACCP certification, if applicable)
• Product details (category and type)
• Water testing report (if water is used in the production process)
• NOC from the local municipality or pollution control board (if applicable)

Ensure your documents are complete and accurate, as incomplete or incorrect submissions can delay your license. If you find paperwork overwhelming, Tatkal FSSAI can assist in compiling and submitting your application correctly.

What Happens If You Don’t Get an FSSAI License?

Operating without an FSSAI license is a legal violation and can lead to:

• Monetary fines or penalties
• Suspension or cancellation of business operations
• Damage to your brand reputation

For tea and coffee businesses, maintaining compliance is particularly important to ensure consumer trust and avoid regulatory hurdles. A license isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s also a mark of quality assurance.

How Long Does an FSSAI License Last?

FSSAI licenses typically have a validity period ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on what you choose during the application. You must renew your license before it expires to avoid penalties or disruption to your business. To understand this better, read How Long Does an FSSAI License Last? Understanding Its Validity Period.

Common Licensing Challenges for Tea and Coffee Businesses

Tea and coffee manufacturers often face unique challenges when applying for an FSSAI license. For example:

• Confusion over turnover thresholds: Many small tea producers struggle to determine whether they need a state or central license.
• Complexity in export requirements: Exporting tea or coffee demands additional certifications and compliance checks.
• Document preparation: Preparing accurate documents, especially for large-scale manufacturers, can be time-consuming.

If you’re facing challenges, consider reviewing Unique FSSAI Licensing Challenges for Food Businesses in Amritsar, which highlights common hurdles and solutions.

Applying for Your Tea or Coffee Manufacturing License

The application process for an FSSAI license typically involves:

1. Registration on FoSCoS: The Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) is the official portal for FSSAI applications.
2. Filling out the form: Depending on your business size, you’ll need to complete either Form A (basic registration) or Form B (state/central license).
3. Uploading documents: Ensure all required documents are scanned and ready for upload.
4. Fee payment: Fees vary based on the license type and duration. For a detailed breakdown, see Breaking Down FSSAI License Costs: Fees for All Categories.
5. Inspection: In some cases, your premises may be inspected to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Once approved, you’ll receive your FSSAI license number, which must be displayed on product packaging and promotional materials.

If you’re a tea or coffee manufacturer, obtaining an FSSAI license is not just about compliance — it’s a step toward ensuring your products are trusted and meet safety standards. While the process can seem daunting, starting with clear documentation and an understanding of your license category will help. If you’re unsure where to begin, Tatkal FSSAI offers expert assistance to streamline your application and ensure everything is in order.

For more insights into licensing requirements, visit the License guides category.