In India, many Food Business Operators (FBOs) assume that obtaining an FSSAI license is sufficient to operate legally. However, this is a common misconception. Schedule IV audit and documentation are mandatory for every food business, irrespective of size, product category, or turnover.
Schedule IV forms the foundation of food safety compliance under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It defines the minimum hygiene and sanitary practices that must be implemented daily in food manufacturing, processing, storage, and handling units.
What Is Schedule IV Audit Under FSSAI?
A Schedule IV audit is a structured evaluation of a food business to verify compliance with hygiene, sanitation, infrastructure, equipment, and operational practices. It ensures that food safety is not only documented but also implemented at the ground level.
During inspections, FSSAI authorities focus on Schedule IV compliance rather than just license validity. Non-compliance may result in improvement notices, penalties, or suspension of operations.
Why Schedule IV Documentation Is Mandatory
Many food businesses follow basic hygiene practices but fail during audits due to missing records. From an FSSAI safety perspective, documentation is proof of implementation.
Schedule IV documentation includes:
Cleaning and sanitation records
Water testing reports
Pest control records
Medical fitness certificates
Staff hygiene and training records
Without proper documentation, food safety systems are considered incomplete.
Lack of Awareness Among Food Business Operators
Despite its importance, Schedule IV audit awareness is still limited across India. Many FBOs become aware of these requirements only after receiving inspection notices or facing delays in license renewal. The lack of structured awareness campaigns has increased compliance risks for small and mid-scale food businesses.
Role of a Food Regulatory Consultant
A professional food regulatory consultant helps food businesses understand, implement, and maintain Schedule IV compliance. The consultant bridges the gap between regulatory requirements and practical implementation by conducting audits, preparing SOPs, and supporting inspection readiness.
Schedule IV audit is not a regulatory formality; it is a critical food safety requirement. For sustainable operations and consumer safety, every food business must treat Schedule IV compliance as an ongoing process, not a one-time task.
