How to File Your FSSAI Annual Return Online?

If you're in the food business in India, the you must have heard about the FSSAI Annual Return. Filing this return is not just a legal obligation or duty but also a key element of maintaining transparency and accountability in the business operations. Whether you're a manufacturer, importer or any distributor of food products, it's important to understand about how to file your FSSAI Annual Return online. Filing this return is not just a legal obligation or duty but also a key element to maintain the transparency and accountability in your business operations. Whether you're a manufacturer, importer, or distributor of food products, understanding how to file your FSSAI Annual Return online is essential.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the entire process in simple terms. You'll learn who needs to file, what documents are required, key deadlines, and a step-by-step method for filing your return online.

What is the FSSAI Annual Return?

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India refer as (FSSAI) is a legislative body that regulates the food safety standards in India. Businesses that deal with manufacturing, importing, exporting, storing, distributing, or transporting food products must register or obtain a license under FSSAI.

Once you have an FSSAI license, certain compliance rules follow—one of the most important being the filing of the FSSAI Annual Return.

This return gives the FSSAI a detailed view of your food-related activities over the past year, including product types, quantity sold/imported/exported, production capacity, and other details.

Who Needs to File FSSAI Annual Return?

Filing an FSSAI Annual Return is mandatory for:

• Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in manufacturing, processing, relabelling, or repacking of food.
• Importers of food products.

This includes companies that are licensed under FSSAI Central License. Small food businesses that operate under a State License or Basic Registration generally don’t need to file the annual return, unless otherwise notified.

Types of FSSAI Returns

There are mainly two types of FSSAI returns:

1. Form D1 – Annual Return

• Must be filed by food manufacturers and importers.
• Covers all kinds of food products.

2. Form D2 – Half-Yearly Return

• Required from manufacturers or packers of milk and milk products.
• Must be submitted every six months (April to September and October to March).

Due Dates for Filing the FSSAI Annual Return

Timely filing is very important. Missing the deadline can attract penalties.

1. Form D1:

• Must be filed on or before May 31st of every year for the preceding financial year (April to March).

2. Form D2:

• First Half-Yearly Return: Due by October 31st
• Second Half-Yearly Return: Due by April 30th

If you miss the deadline, a penalty of ₹100 per day is imposed until the return is filed.

Documents Required for Filing FSSAI Annual Return

Before you begin the online filing process, keep the following details ready:

1. FSSAI License Number
2. Name and address of the FBO
3. Details of the food products manufactured or handled
4. Quantity of food products sold, imported, or exported
5. Size and type of packaging
6. Market distribution (domestic or export)
7. Production capacity
8. Sale value

Step-by-Step Process to File FSSAI Annual Return Online

Filing your FSSAI Annual Return online is now easier than ever. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Visit the FSSAI Portal

Go to the official FSSAI online portal:

👉 https://foscos.fssai.gov.in

This is the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) launched by FSSAI.

Step 2: Login to Your Account

• Click on the Login option on the top-right corner.
• Enter your Username and Password. These are the credentials you received while registering your food business on the FoSCoS portal.
• If you’re new, click on Sign Up and create an account using your license number and registered contact details.

Step 3: Select "Annual Return"

Once logged in:

• Go to the Returns section in the dashboard.
• Choose “Annual Return (Form D1)” or “Half-Yearly Return (Form D2)” as per your business requirement.

Step 4: Fill in the Return Form

You’ll see an online form asking for multiple details such as:

• Type of food product
• Quantity in Metric Tons
• Value of the product
• Country of export (if applicable)
• Month-wise details

Be accurate and double-check your data before moving forward the application.

Step 5: Upload Documents (if required)

Some categories of FBOs might be required to upload additional documents related to food testing, quality assurance, or export certificates.

Make sure you upload documents in the accepted formats (PDF, JPG, etc.) and size limits.

Step 6: Review and Submit

• Cross-check all the entered details.
• Click on the “Submit” button.
• After submission, you’ll get an acknowledgment with a Reference Number. Save or download this for your records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Filing your FSSAI Annual Return is straightforward, but here are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Don’t wait till the last date—submit early to avoid server issues.
• Ensure that product categories and quantities match your sales records.
• Double-check license number and business name.
• Don’t skip any mandatory fields.
• Don’t file manually if the online mode is applicable for your license.

Consequences of Not Filing FSSAI Annual Return

Failure to file your FSSAI Annual Return on time can lead to:

• A penalty of ₹100 per day of delay.
• Possible suspension or cancellation of FSSAI license for repeated defaults.
• Legal issues or notices from the food department.

Being compliant not only avoids penalties but also builds your business reputation.

Benefits of Filing the FSSAI Annual Return

Here are a few advantages:

• Maintains your legal compliance with food safety laws.
• Boosts your trustworthiness among consumers and business partners.
• Helps the government to track the food production and distribution for safety supervision or monitoring.
• Facilitates smoother license renewals and inspections.

Conclusion

Filing your FSSAI Annual Return online is a vital part of running a compliant and successful food business in India. While it may seem like a formality, but it plays a important role in ensuring the process of food safety standards is upheld across the country for the purpose of public health and safety. By following the simple and formal steps as we have outlined above, you can file your return without hassle and avoid unnecessary penalties. If you need any assistance related to FSSAI registration or compliances, do contact CRSPL Business Consultants.

So, if you're a licensed food business operator, make sure you file your FSSAI Annual Return before the deadline and keep your business on the right side of the law.

FAQs

Q1: Is filing FSSAI Annual Return mandatory for all food businesses?

Only businesses with FSSAI Central License must file annual returns. Small food businesses under State License or Registration are generally exempt unless directed.

Q2: What is the last date to file FSSAI Form D1?

The last date to file Form D1 is May 31st of every year for the previous financial year.

Q3: Can I file the FSSAI Annual Return offline?

In most cases, especially for Central License holders, online filing via the FoSCoS portal is mandatory.

Q4: What if I missed the deadline?

A late fee of ₹100 per day is applicable. Continuous failure can also lead to cancellation of your FSSAI license.

Q5: Can a consultant file the return on my behalf?

Yes, a registered FSSAI consultant or chartered accountant can assist in filing your annual return.