Certificate of food safety qualified facility: Conditions - Documents - Procedures
In the context of consumers increasingly concerned about food safety, owning a certificate of food safety qualified facility is not only a mandatory requirement by law but also a factor in building trust and brand reputation for businesses. So what are the conditions for granting, the documents to prepare and the implementation process? Let's find out the details through the article below.
1. What is a certificate of food safety qualified facility?
A certificate of food safety qualified facility is a document issued by a state management agency, confirming that the food production, processing and trading facility has fully met the conditions of food safety and hygiene according to the law.
This certificate is not only a legal "passport" for businesses to operate, but also a clear commitment to quality and responsibility for the health of consumers.

2. Who needs to apply for a food safety certificate?
According to the Food Safety Law, the following establishments are required to have a food safety certificate before starting operations:
- Food production and processing facilities
- Food service establishments (restaurants, eateries, collective kitchens, etc.)
- Business establishments of functional foods and packaged foods
- Food storage and distribution warehouse
Some entities such as small businesses, prepackaged food businesses, etc. may be exempted from the certificate, but must still ensure food safety conditions according to regulations.
3. Conditions for being granted a certificate of food safety qualified facility
To be granted a certificate of food safety qualified facility, the facility must simultaneously meet 3 mandatory groups of conditions:
3.1. Conditions on physical facilities
The processing and storage areas must be clean, airy, with lighting and drainage systems.
Processing equipment and tools are made from non-toxic, easy-to-clean materials.
3.2. Conditions on human resources
Employees directly involved in production and processing must have regular health check-ups.
Have a valid certificate of food safety training.
3.3. Conditions on production processes
Have a clear production process, control the risk of cross-contamination.
Have a clear origin of raw materials, and preserve them according to standards.

4. Application for a certificate of food safety and hygiene for facilities
A complete application for a certificate of food safety and hygiene for facilities includes:
- Application for certificate
- Business registration certificate (with appropriate business lines)
- Description of facilities and equipment
- Food production floor plan and process
- Employee health certificate
- Food safety knowledge training certificate
- Raw material purchase contract (if any)
The preparation of documents must be accurate and complete to avoid being rejected or requested for additional information many times, causing waste of time.
5. Procedures for granting a certificate of food safety eligibility
The procedure for applying for a certificate of food safety eligibility is divided into 5 main steps:
5.1. Survey and prepare documents
Inspect the facility, complete related documents and papers.
5.2. Submit documents to the competent authority
Depending on the type of product, submit to the Department of Health, Department of Industry and Trade or Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
5.3. On-site assessment
The management staff will come to inspect the actual conditions, production process, personnel, etc.
5.4. Make a decision to grant a license
If the requirements are met, the certificate will be issued after 10-15 working days.
5.5. Receive the certificate and hang it at the facility
The license must be posted in a visible place in the production and business area.
6. Term, validity and renewal of certificate
- Validity period: 3 years from date of issue.
- Renewal time: At least 30 days before expiration.
- Renewal application: Similar to new issuance, but simpler if there are no major changes.
Failure to renew on time may result in the certificate becoming invalid, affecting the production and business activities of the facility.

7. Risks of not having a food safety certificate
Not having a food safety certificate can cause many serious consequences:
- Administrative fine from 20 - 50 million VND depending on the level of violation
- Suspended operations, product recall
- Impact on reputation with customers and partners
- Difficulties in cooperating with supermarkets, chain stores, export organizations
In particular, in regular or surprise food safety inspection campaigns, the certificate is a mandatory condition to be presented.
8. Solutions to support the issuance of a certificate of food safety qualified facility
Do you need support? Let Luat Thien Di accompany you!
If you need to apply for a certificate of food safety qualified facility but have difficulty in preparing documents, renovating the facility or do not understand the legal process, Luat Thien Di is a reliable legal consulting unit for you to choose. With a team of experienced specialists, we provide a complete service from A to Z , committed to being legal, fast, saving time and costs for customers. Contact Luat Thien Di now for free consultation and on-site support!
Contact information:
THIEN DI LAW COMPANY LTD
Address: No. 36, A4 Street, Ward 12, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Hotline : 0982 020 789 - 0868 083 683
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