Do We Need an FSSAI License for Our Partner's Warehouse Storage? Seeking Advice!

Dear Members, Greetings! Kindly advise regarding the below:

Business Activities and Licensing

Our company (ABC Pvt. Ltd.) has one of the business activities of a transporter, utilizing specialized vehicles like insulated refrigerated vans/wagons, and holds a valid Central FSSAI License under the Transport category. We have an agreement with a company (XYZ Pvt. Ltd.) whose business activity is storage; they have warehouses across PAN India and hold an FSSAI License under the storage category.

Agreement Details

As per the agreement, our company (ABC Pvt. Ltd.) has taken space in the warehouse of XYZ Pvt. Ltd. where storing and re-packaging of food products will be managed by XYZ Pvt. Ltd. under our directions. Thereafter, the delivery of the same to the respective locations will be handled by us.

Please advise, in this scenario, are we required to have an FSSAI or any other license for the location/warehouse where food products will be stored?

Thanks & Regards,
Anchal Tyagi
Location: New Delhi, India

FSSAI Requirement for Location/Warehouse Where Food Products Will Be Stored

In the context described, where your company (ABC Pvt. Ltd.) is utilizing the warehouse space of another company (XYZ Pvt. Ltd.) for storing and re-packaging food products, the requirement of an FSSAI or any other license for the location/warehouse depends on certain factors:

1. 🗵 FSSAI License Under Storage Category: Since XYZ Pvt. Ltd. holds a valid FSSAI License under the storage category for their warehouses nationwide, it is crucial to verify if this license covers the specific activities of storing and handling food products on behalf of another entity, in this case, ABC Pvt. Ltd.

2. 🈝 Agreement Terms: Review the agreement between ABC Pvt. Ltd. and XYZ Pvt. Ltd. thoroughly to ensure that it clearly outlines the responsibilities and obligations related to food safety compliance, including FSSAI requirements.

3. 🆬 Consultation: Seek advice from legal experts specializing in food safety regulations or consult with FSSAI authorities directly to clarify the necessity of obtaining a separate license for the specific activities being conducted at the shared warehouse space.

4. 🈋 Documentation Verification: If required, ensure that all necessary documentation, permits, and licenses are in place to comply with FSSAI regulations and any other applicable laws governing food storage and handling.

5. 🗿 Resource: For detailed information on FSSAI guidelines and licensing requirements, you can refer to the official Food Safety and Standards Authority of India website: https://www.fssai.gov.in/.

In summary, the need for a separate FSSAI or any other license for the warehouse location where food products are stored under the described arrangement would depend on the existing licenses, agreement terms, and the specific activities being carried out in the shared space. Clarification from legal experts and regulatory authorities is recommended to ensure full compliance with food safety regulations.