Food businesses in India must adhere to the regulations laid down by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure consumer safety and maintain food quality standards. FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food-related businesses, and non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines, product recalls, and even imprisonment.

In Coimbatore, where food-based businesses are thriving, it is crucial to stay compliant with FSSAI regulations. Any business found operating without proper registration or violating food safety norms can face serious consequences. Here’s a breakdown of the penalties for non-compliance with FSSAI norms:

1. Operating Without FSSAI Registration

One of the most severe penalties is imposed on businesses that operate without FSSAI registration. According to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, any food business found operating without a valid license or registration can be fined up to ₹5 lakhs. Additionally, the authorities can halt the operations of the business until proper FSSAI registration in Coimbatore is obtained.

2. Substandard Food

If a food business is found producing or selling substandard food, they can face a penalty of up to ₹5 lakhs. Substandard food refers to food items that do not meet the quality or safety requirements as per FSSAI guidelines. To avoid such fines, food businesses must ensure regular testing and quality checks of their products.

3. Misleading Claims and Advertising

Advertising false or misleading claims about food products can result in hefty fines. Businesses making exaggerated claims about the health benefits or nutritional value of their products can face penalties of up to ₹10 lakhs. Ensuring transparency and honesty in product labeling and advertisements is crucial to staying compliant.

4. Unsafe or Hazardous Food

The most severe penalty is for selling unsafe or hazardous food that could potentially harm consumers. In such cases, businesses can face fines of up to ₹10 lakhs, and the responsible person may face criminal charges, including imprisonment. These penalties emphasize the importance of maintaining food safety standards at every stage of the food supply chain.

5. Product Recall and Business Shutdown

In extreme cases, FSSAI authorities may demand a recall of unsafe food products from the market. Additionally, the business may be shut down if found in repeated violation of FSSAI norms.

In conclusion, non-compliance with FSSAI norms can have dire consequences for food businesses. To avoid these penalties, businesses in Coimbatore must ensure proper FSSAI registration in Coimbatore and adhere strictly to food safety standards, conducting regular audits and ensuring proper documentation at every level.