Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, under the Sale of Food Act, a licence to operate a food processing establishment is required from SFA, for the manufacturing, processing, preparation or packing of foods (excluding meat or fish processing) for the purpose of distribution to wholesalers and retailers.
The premises used for manufacturing, processing, preparation or packing of food for the purpose of distribution must be carried out in a properly designed and constructed food processing establishment equipped with all the necessary facilities.

Use of residential house as a food processing establishment for manufacturing of food for distribution is not allowed.

Processed food products include raw spices, raw or semi processed food ingredients such as flour or bottled water, liquors and all beverages. Processed food however, does not include primary produce - raw fish, raw meat, processed fish products, processed meat products, fresh fruits and fresh vegetables. Separate licences are required for importing primary produce.

You may apply for a Licence to operate a food processing establishment (excluding meat and fish) via GoBusiness Licensing.

You can find more information on the labelling requirements here.

It all depends on how soon you can comply with the health requirements, specific to your food establishment, which will be issued to you for compliance during the licensing stage.

Please be reminded that no food processing operation is allowed until approval of the licence is granted.