What is the FSSAI Annual Return?

The FSSAI Annual Return is a mandatory compliance filing for certain categories of food business operators (FBOs), particularly those involved in manufacturing, processing, relabeling, or repacking of food products. This return provides details about the type and quantity of food handled during the financial year and helps the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) monitor food safety compliance.

Filing the annual return is governed under the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.

 

Who Must File the FSSAI Annual Return?

  • All licensed food manufacturers, including exporters and importers

  • Businesses engaged in relabeling, repacking, or processing

  • FSSAI Central and State License holders in the manufacturing sector

  • Export-oriented food businesses

Note: FBOs with Basic Registration are currently not required to file annual returns.

 

Types of Returns

  1. Form D1 – Annual Return:

    • Must be filed by all licensed manufacturers and importers

    • Covers details such as the types of food products, production quantity, imported/exported quantities, and destination countries (if applicable)

  2. Form D2 – Half-Yearly Return:

    • Applicable to manufacturers of milk and milk products

    • Filed every six months, covering production and procurement details

 

Due Dates for Filing

  • Form D1 (Annual Return):
    Due by May 31st of every year for the preceding financial year (April 1st to March 31st)

  • Form D2 (Half-Yearly Return):

    • First Half: April to September → Due by October 30

    • Second Half: October to March → Due by April 30

 

Penalty for Non-Filing

  • Failure to file the FSSAI annual return within the deadline can lead to a penalty of ₹100 per day of delay.

  • Continued non-compliance may also attract license suspension or cancellation.

 

Information Required for Filing

  • FSSAI license number and business details

  • Names of food products manufactured or imported

  • Quantity in metric tonnes/litres

  • Value of the food items

  • Details of exports (if applicable): destination country, port, quantity

  • Packaging size and type

 

How We Can Help

  • Evaluate whether your business is required to file Form D1 or D2

  • Accurately prepare and file annual/half-yearly returns

  • Ensure timely compliance to avoid penalties

  • Assist with FSSAI audits, recordkeeping, and updates to license information

  • Represent your interests in case of non-compliance notices

 

Stay Compliant with FSSAI Regulations

Avoid fines and protect your license by meeting your FSSAI annual filing obligations. Contact us today for reliable support with FSSAI Annual Return filing and compliance management.