What to Do When Your FSSAI Application Is Rejected

An FSSAI application being rejected does not necessarily mean your food business cannot obtain a licence. In many cases, the issue relates to incomplete information, missing documents, incorrect business details or failure to respond to a query within the prescribed period.

Understanding the reason for rejection is the first step towards deciding what needs to be corrected.

Why Are FSSAI Applications Rejected?

Some common issues include:

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Information
Errors in the business name, premises address, food business activity, turnover or other application details can create problems during processing. FoSCoS specifically requires the premises address to match the relevant proof of possession.

2. Missing Supporting Documents
Depending on the type of food business, documents may include identity/address proof, layout plans, equipment details, food-category information and other supporting documents. The required documents vary according to the business activity.

3. Incorrect Kind of Business Selection
Selecting an inappropriate food business category can result in the application not matching the actual activity. Applicants should select the category that accurately represents what the business does.

4. Failure to Respond to FoSCoS Queries
A particularly important issue is not responding when an application is reverted with comments. FoSCoS guidance states that applicants have 30 days to respond to reverted applications, after which the application can be automatically rejected.

5. Application Not Considered Grantable
FSSAI states that a licensing officer may reject an application when required information is not provided within the stipulated period or when the application is considered not tenable. Before refusal, the applicant is to be given an opportunity of being heard, with reasons for refusal recorded in writing.

What Should You Do After Rejection?

First, check the application status and read the authority's remarks rather than immediately submitting another application. FoSCoS provides an online facility to track application status.

Then:

• Identify the exact reason for rejection

• Check the submitted information against your business documents

• Correct inaccurate details

• Prepare missing supporting documents

• Check the applicable food business category

• Review any pending authority query

• Determine whether reactivation or a fresh application is appropriate

For businesses that need assistance, FSSAI licensing support for businesses can help review the application and documentation before taking the next step.

Can a Rejected Application Be Reactivated?

In certain circumstances, FSSAI has a procedure for reactivation of rejected applications. Its published SOP covers situations including rejection due to non-furnishing of information within the stipulated period, repeated non-submission of required documents, inadvertent rejection and certain technical issues. The SOP specifies different authorities and procedures for Central and State applications.

Therefore, the correct solution depends on why the application was rejected, when it was rejected and whether it falls within the applicable reactivation process.

Avoid Repeating the Same Mistake

Submitting another application without understanding the original rejection can lead to the same problem again. A better approach is to review the rejection remarks, verify the business information and supporting documents, and then determine the appropriate corrective action.

If your application has been rejected or repeatedly reverted, get FSSAI application assistance to review the issue before proceeding with the next submission.