FSSAI is thinking long-term
FSSAI is thinking long-term—literally! And structurally.
Fixed Renewal Dates | 10-Year Licenses | Bye-bye 1-Year Options
The new Consultation Paper by FSSAI (May 20, 2025) signals a foundational shift in food compliance timelines—from “renew whenever you want” to “renew when everyone does.”
What’s being proposed:
a. FBOs will now choose one of four renewal dates:
→ Jan 15 | Apr 15 | Jul 15 | Oct 15
b. Long-term validity—up to 10 years—for licenses under the Trade/Retail category: wholesalers, importers, retailers, transporters, e-commerce, etc.
c. No more 1- or 2-year registrations—basic FBOs must opt for 3, 4, or 5 years.
Why this could be a game-changer:
• Standardizes internal compliance calendars
• Reduces administrative fatigue for FBOs with multi-state presence
• Opens the door for public “Renewal Season” awareness drives (Just like Income Tax deadline campaigns)
• Helps FSSAI plan inspections and audits around predictable cycles
But here’s where it gets interesting…
• What if these fixed dates become the new industry calendar?
• What if food delivery apps start flagging expired licenses based on missed cycles?
• What if 10-year licenses create blind spots—fewer check-ins, but more risks?
• What if January, April, July, and October become overloaded with renewal traffic—are FBOs, consultants, and portals ready?
This consultation is more than a cleanup of expiry dates—it’s about building a synchronized compliance culture.