FSSAI had published an order on 23 November 2016 regarding the use of pre-printed packaging material and grant of extension for using existing stocks of pre-printed packaging material. FSSAI had also prescribed the procedure for granting permission to FBOs for the use of pre-printed packaging material containing the old name, address or the license number of the FBO, at a nominal fee, on receipt of the formal request. The FSSAI had earlier permitted two extensions of six months each with the fee doubling on the second request for an extension of the use of pre-printed packaging material.
However, the FSSAI has again received a number of representations from Food Business Operators who have again sought permission to use pre-printed packaging material. Through this new order dated 14 November 2017, the FSSAI has again granted permission to use the existing pre-printed packaging material for a time extension of six months each, for a maximum of three such six monthly extensions. The fee structure for the same is as follows:
Fee | Central License | State License |
1st Extension (6 months) | Rs.7500/- | Rs.3000/- |
2nd Extension (for next 6 months) | Rs.15,000/- | Rs.6000/- |
3rd Extension (for next 6 months) | Rs.15,000/- | Rs.6000/- |
About pre-printed packaging material
Pre-printed packaging fulfills an important function of displaying product information, label information as well as the name, address and FSSAI license number of the manufacturer. Most FBOs know that while the quality of the product is important for influencing the sale of the product, the pre-printed packaging material plays an equally important function in the marketing of the product and brand recognition.
Since pre-printed packaging material display influences consumer perception and preference FBOs take a lot of pains to ensure that the printing of the material is professional and eye-catching for instant recognition. The food and beverage industry has also started personalizing packaging to give them a competitive edge. Since organizing the literature, display, and label on the pre-printed packaging material take time and additional costs; the FBOs have asked for the time extension to use existing pre-printed packaging material before they can get their new pre-printed packaging material ready.
venkatesan says
Now am selling my food products across India, could I just take one All India License from
the state of manufacturing, so that it could be sold across India thro’ online or Direct
to end customer or thro supply chain mode, without changing any labels or brand.