If you’re running a food business in India, chances are you’re juggling a million things — product quality, customer satisfaction, and, of course, compliance. One big piece of that compliance puzzle? Filing your FSSAI Annual Return.

It might sound boring (or even intimidating), but trust me, it’s easier than you think — once you understand the basics.
Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy, practical, and (hopefully) not as painful as it sounds.

What is the FSSAI Annual Return?

Think of the FSSAI Annual Return as your food business’s yearly report card.

It tells the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) what you’ve been up to — how much food you’ve manufactured, sold, imported, or exported in the past year.

It’s the government’s way of keeping tabs on the food industry to make sure everything remains safe and transparent.

So no, it’s not just another formality. It’s an important step towards building trust — with both authorities and customers.

Purpose of Filing the Annual Return

Here’s why the FSSAI Annual Return matters:

Monitoring: It helps the government keep an eye on the types and quantities of food products circulating in the market.
Data collection: It assists in food safety planning at a national level.
Accountability: It ensures that businesses operate ethically and responsibly.
Transparency: It builds public trust in the food industry.

In short: It’s good for the system, and it’s good for your business image too.

Who Needs to File the FSSAI Annual Return?

Good question — because not everyone has to file it.

You must file the annual return if you are:

A manufacturer of food products
An importer or exporter of food
A repacker (if you take food products and repackage them under your brand)
A labeler
A storage warehouse for food items

Restaurants, food stalls, catering units, and transporters — you’re mostly off the hook unless specifically asked by FSSAI.

Also important: If you hold a State License or a Central License for food manufacturing/import — you’re obligated to file.

(If you only have a Basic Registration — you’re exempt.)

Types of FSSAI Returns

There are two types of returns you should know about:

1. Form D1 – Annual Return

Every manufacturer/importer/exporter must file this.
Covers details about type of food, quantity manufactured/imported/exported, etc.
Filed once a year.

2. Form D2 – Half-Yearly Return (only for dairy businesses)

If you’re dealing with milk or milk products, you need to file this too.
Filed twice a year — for April to September and October to March.

If you’re not into dairy, you can stop worrying about D2!

How to File the FSSAI Annual Return

Once you have completed your FSSAI Registration or FSSAI Renewal, the next critical compliance is FSSAI Return Filing. Filing your FSSAI Annual Return doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here’s a super simple breakdown:

Step 1: Gather Your Data

Start by collecting basic details:

Names of the food products you handled
Quantities manufactured/sold/imported/exported
Details about your suppliers and buyers
Batch numbers, dates, and other small info

Pro tip: Keep track of this monthly so you’re not scrambling at the end of the year.

Step 2: Fill Out the Form

Download Form D1 (or D2 if applicable) from the FSSAI website.
Fill in all the details neatly. Double-check everything.

Step 3: Submit It

You can submit the form either:

Online (if your state portal allows it), or
By physically submitting it to your local Food Safety Department office.

Done! Now you can breathe easy.

When is the FSSAI Annual Return Due?

Mark these dates on your calendar — or better yet, set a phone reminder!

Form D1 (Annual Return): Must be filed by 31st May every year for the previous financial year.
Form D2 (Half-Yearly Return for Dairy Businesses):
- April–September: Due by 30th November.
- October–March: Due by 31st May.

What Happens If You Miss the FSSAI Annual Return Deadline?

If you delay filing, you’ll be charged ₹100 per day until you finally submit your return.

Sounds harmless? Think again:

30 days delay = ₹3,000 fine
60 days delay = ₹6,000 fine
100 days delay = ₹10,000 fine

And that’s not even the worst part — Chronic non-filing can lead to suspension or cancellation of your FSSAI license. Without a valid license, your food business operations could come to a screeching halt.

Is There Any Exemption from FSSAI Annual Return?

Yes! You don’t have to file an annual return if:

You have only a basic FSSAI registration (turnover below ₹12 lakhs).
You run a restaurant, canteen, food delivery, or transport business (unless specifically directed otherwise).

When in doubt, though — better to double-check your license conditions or ask a professional.

What About FSSAI Annual Return Penalty Waiver?

Is there a way to skip paying penalties if you miss the deadline?
Maybe — but it’s tricky.

You can request a penalty waiver if:

You had a genuine reason (natural disasters, technical portal issues, medical emergencies).
You can provide documented proof.
The authority accepts your explanation at their discretion.

Important: There’s no guarantee. It’s always safer to just file it on time.

How Much Does It Cost to File the FSSAI Annual Return?

Good news:

There’s no government fee for filing.

You don’t need to pay the FSSAI a single rupee to submit your annual return.

If you hire someone (like a consultant or agency) to help you file it — you’ll pay their professional fees, but nothing official to the government.

Why Choose Finaccle for Your FSSAI Compliance?

Here’s the thing — FSSAI Registration, FSSAI Renewal or filing your FSSAI Annual Return might sound easy until you actually sit down to do it.

One tiny mistake could lead to delays, penalties, or worse.

That’s why many smart businesses work with experts like Finaccle.

Here’s why they trust Finaccle:

Zero Hassle: They take care of the paperwork while you focus on your business.
Deadline Warriors: They’ll make sure you file everything on time, every time.
Expert Guidance: From filling details to dealing with tricky exemptions.
Transparent Pricing: No surprises, just clear affordable fees.

With Finaccle by your side, you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and sleep peacefully at night.

Final Thoughts

Filing your FSSAI Annual Return isn’t just a box to tick — it’s part of building a responsible and trustworthy food business.
It shows you care about quality, safety, and compliance — and that’s something customers notice.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry.
With a little preparation (and the right help), it’s easier than you think.

Need help filing your FSSAI Annual Return?

Talk to Finaccle today and get it done without the stress, fines, or last-minute panic!

FSSAI Annual Return: Everything You Need to Know