Food Safety and Compliance System (FoSCoS)

FOSCOS, the Food Safety Compliance System, was launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This cloud-based platform replaces the existing Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS), offering a seamless, one-point solution for food businesses nationwide to enhance their regulatory compliance in the ever-evolving landscape of the food industry.

FOSCOS was launched through a nationwide notification dated 20th May, 2020, in phases. In the first phase, it was launched in States /UTs of Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Goa, Delhi, Odisha, Manipur, Chandigarh, Puducherry, and Ladakh with effect from 1st June 2020. We have discussed the details of the notification and launch further, to help you get a clear understanding of the context. Every food business operator(FBO) has to migrate to FoSCoS upon its launch (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in) in their State/UT.

Food Safety Compliance System: Launch Details

FOSCOS, the cutting-edge Food Safety Compliance System, had its genesis in a pivotal FSSAI notification, signaling a transformative shift in regulatory dynamics. Launched in a phased approach across states and union territories, the evolution of FOSCOS unfolds with precision and strategic implementation.

FSSAI Notification on Food Safety & Compliances System

The inception of FOSCOS traces back to a notification from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This official notification laid the groundwork for a comprehensive upgrade, aiming to revolutionize food safety compliance practices throughout the nation.

FOSCOS emerged in distinct phases, commencing its journey in states and union territories such as Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Goa, Delhi, Odisha, Manipur, Chandigarh, Puducherry, and Ladakh on June 1, 2020. Subsequently, it proliferated its presence across the remaining states and territories.

Migration to the New Food Safety Compliance System

The launch of the Food Safety Compliance System (FOSCOS) in the respective states or union territories, every Food Business Operator (FBO) faced the crucial task of migration. This marked a pivotal transition from the previous Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) to the more advanced and streamlined FOSCOS platform. To facilitate a seamless shift, FBOs were granted the ability to view their existing licenses or registrations on FLRS. This served as a benchmark for comparison with the particulars entered into FOSCOS.

Key details, including license/registration numbers, business names, addresses, validity, and categories, were subject to meticulous scrutiny during the migration process. FBOs engaged in non-manufacturing activities underwent a verification process, ensuring the accuracy of details such as license/registration numbers, business names, addresses, validity, and categories. This step was essential for confirming the alignment of data between FLRS and FOSCOS. Manufacturers of standardized products encountered a modification process post-login. This involved a swift adjustment of their licenses, without incurring additional costs, by selecting products from the standardized list provided by FOSCOS.

This method aimed at expediting the licensing process and reducing potential errors. For FBOs opting not to avail the modification facility during license renewal, a one-year renewal was the consequence. This incentivized timely adjustments and ensured the continual alignment of licensing details between FLRS and FOSCOS. In instances where discrepancies or anomalies were identified in license details entered into FOSCOS compared to FLRS, FBOs were encouraged to report these to FSSAI. This collaborative effort aimed at maintaining accuracy and integrity in the regulatory database.

FOSCOS Objective

Unified Regulatory Approach: FOSCOS was conceived with the primary objective of establishing a unified, data-driven regulatory approach nationwide. This harmonized system aimed to enhance the efficiency of food safety regulations and streamline compliance practices.
Nationwide Implementation: The phased launch strategy ensured FOSCOS’s penetration across states and union territories, fostering a cohesive approach to food safety compliance on a pan-India scale.
Seamless Migration: Facilitating a seamless transition for Food Business Operators (FBOs) from the previous FLRS to FOSCOS was a key objective. The migration process aimed at ensuring accuracy and consistency in licensing and registration details.

Food Safety Compliance System Features

Food Safety & Compliance
One-Point Platform	FOSCOS stands as a comprehensive one-stop platform, integrating licensing, registration, inspection, and annual return modules.
Product Standardization for Manufacturers	A major upgradation in methodology was introduced for manufacturers, emphasizing the standardization of products.
Online Annual Return Filing	FOSCOS introduced an online module for filing annual returns, eliminating postal delays and paperwork.
Document Rationalization	Mandatory documents have undergone rationalization, with a transition from paper-based declarations to tick-based declarations.

Services of Food Safety Compliance System

FOSCOS offers a suite of services meticulously designed to enhance compliance within the Food Safety Compliance System. From expediting licensing processes to streamlining documentation and enabling seamless online submissions, each service plays a pivotal role in simplifying the complexities of food safety regulations.

Application for License / Registration
Renewal of License / Registration
Modification of License / Registration
Track Application
Filing Annual Returns
Officer / FBO Search

How to Register on FOSCOS?

Step 1: Visit the FOSCOS Portal:
Access the official FOSCOS portal by clicking on https://foscos.fssai.gov.in.

Step 2: Click on “New Registration”:
Find the “Apply for New License / Registration ” option on the portal’s homepage.

Step 3: Provide Business Details:
Fill in necessary details such as your food business’s name, address, contact information, and other relevant particulars.

Step 4: Get New License / Registration Number:
After applying for a new license / registration, you will receive your Registration or License Number by FSSAI.

Step 5. Use Credentials to Login:
For all further

FAQs

What is FOSCOS food safety compliance system?

FOSCOS, short for the Food Safety Compliance System, is a revolutionary platform introduced by FSSAI to replace conventional compliance systems. Unlike its predecessor FLRS, FOSCOS streamlines and enhances food safety regulations, offering a unified and user-friendly approach for businesses.

Is FOSCOS mandatory for all food businesses?

Yes, fulfilling FSSAI Compliances is mandatory through the Food Safety Compliance System (FOSCOS) for all food businesses operating in India. It contributes significantly to compliance by providing a comprehensive system for registration, licensing, renewal, and modifications, ensuring businesses adhere to stringent food safety standards.

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