Running a food business is thrilling! But that includes having everything compliant and safe too. Being prepared for an FSSAI inspection is all part of the package. Don’t panic, though – it doesn’t sound so scary! StartupFlora, your partners to making startups and small enterprises a success, are here to assist. We guide new businesses through to operation, and understanding regulations like FSSAI is the secret to your success.
What is an FSSAI Inspection?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) inspects so that food businesses are following the rules. All these rules are almost all about keeping food safe for everyone. It is like having a health check-up of your business. It ensures you are doing everything right to provide safe food.
Why Are FSSAI Inspections Important?
FSSAI inspections are crucial as they play two roles:
- Public Safety: They protect consumers from unsafe food. Inspections allow them to identify and rectify any potential food safety hazard.
- Business Credibility: Passing an FSSAI inspection demonstrates your commitment to food safety, which builds trust with your customers.
How to Prepare for an FSSAI Inspection: Your Checklist
Preparation is the key to passing an FSSAI inspection. Here’s a simple-to-use checklist to prepare you:
- Good FSSAI License: Make sure your FSSAI license is up to date. Renew it if it has lapsed. Do not procrastinate in the renewal process. You can apply online via the FSSAI portal. This is necessary for legal operation and shows your dedication to food safety.
- Clean and Organized Premises: Keep your kitchen, storage areas, and dining areas clean and in good condition. A clean working environment is essential to food safety.
- Food Storage: Store food at the correct temperatures and locations. It will prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Cleanliness Standards: Work under high standards of cleanliness by all employees, like hand washing, clean attire, and proper food handling.
- Pest Control: Maintain a good pest control system to prevent infestation.
- Waste Management: Maintain proper waste disposal system.
- Documentation: Maintain proper records of buying food, temperature of storage, sanitizing practice, and pest control. This sends the signal to the inspectors that you are concerned about food safety.
- Staff Training: Train your staff on the principles of food safety and introduce them to the importance of adhering to the directions.
- Self-Inspection: Periodic self-inspection for inspection and elimination of probable issues prior to FSSAI inspector visits. A dry run!
Related Article: FSSAI Registration in Amravati
What to Do When You’re Inspected by FSSAI
FSSAI inspectors will basically look for the following:
- License Validity: They’ll verify if your FSSAI license is renewed.
- Premises Cleanliness: They’ll verify if your premises are clean and well-organized.
- Food Storage: They’ll verify how you store food.
- Hygiene Practices: They’ll verify your hygiene practices.
- Pest Control: They’ll verify if there’s any trace of pests.
- Waste Management: They’ll verify your waste disposal system.
- Documentation: They will verify your documents.
What Do You Do After the Inspection?
If all is well with the inspectors, you’ll receive a good report. If they detect something wrong, they will provide you with a timeline for correcting it. You should take remedial measures seriously and implement them within a timely schedule.
Startup Flora: Your Food Safety Partner
We at StartupFlora understand how overwhelming food safety regulations are. We have professionals who can guide you through familiarizing you with FSSAI compliance tips and helping you prepare for an inspection. We can’t actually help you obtain your license, but we can give you directions. We’re dedicated to taking your business through each step of the way! Call us today to learn more.