Food and beverage imports into India require FSSAI clearance in addition to standard customs procedures. Without FSSAI NOC or import clearance, no food product can be released from customs — even if full duty is paid. This combination of FSSAI timelines and customs processing is why food importers must plan documentation weeks before shipment.
Regulatory Layers for Food Imports
| Body | Role | Document | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| FSSAI | Food safety clearance for all food imports | FSSAI NOC / Import Clearance | 1–15 days |
| PQIS (Plant Quarantine) | For plant-origin food: fruits, vegetables, nuts | Phytosanitary certificate from origin | Verification at port |
| APEDA | For some agri-food products under quota | APEDA clearance if quota restricted | |
| CBIC Customs | Duty assessment and release | Bill of entry on ICEGATE | Standard + FSSAI delay |
FSSAI Import Clearance Process
- Importer/CHA files FSSAI No Objection for import at FSSAI FLRS portal
- FSSAI reviews: product category, label, safety standards, presence of additives/preservatives within India limits
- FSSAI issues NOC or requests sampling/testing
- If testing required: samples drawn at port; lab results in 5–15 days
- FSSAI approval added to customs documents; customs releases after duty payment
Food Import Duty Rates — India
| Category | BCD Range | IGST |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh fruits (apples, grapes) | 50–100% | 12% |
| Processed fruits (canned, jams) | 30–100% | 12–18% |
| Dairy products (cheese, butter) | 30–60% | 12% |
| Alcoholic beverages | 150% | 28% |
| Packaged food (snacks, chocolates) | 30–100% | 18% or 28% |
| Coffee (roasted) | 100% | 5% |
| Olive oil | 100% | 5% |
Labeling Requirements for Imported Food
FSSAI mandates all food imports carry labels complying with Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020:
- English (or official language) label required
- Ingredients list in descending order
- Nutritional information panel
- Allergen declaration
- Best before / Expiry date visible
- Name and address of importer in India
- Country of origin
- No false or misleading health claims
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Frequently asked questions
FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) must approve all food imports via its FLRS portal before customs can release the goods. Without FSSAI NOC, goods are held at port.
Very high — alcoholic beverages: BCD 150% + IGST 28%. Fresh fruits: BCD 50–100% + IGST 12%. Processed food: BCD 30–100% + IGST 12–28%. Food imports are heavily protected.
NOC without testing: 1–5 days. If sampling and lab testing required: 10–20 days. Risk-based — first-time importers of novel products face longer timelines.