Food Recycling License in India – Everything You Need to Know
A Food Recycling License (Consent to Establish & Operate) from the State Pollution Control Board is mandatory for any entity that processes or recycles food waste via composting, anaerobic digestion, or industrial treatment. It ensures compliance with environmental regulations and promotes sustainable waste management.
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Overview of Food Recycling License
India generates over 817,000 tonnes of food waste annually (2021), yet recycles only 19% of it. With nearly 40% of produced food wasted and an economic loss of ₹92,000 crores each year, a Food Recycling License helps organizations implement sustainable waste‐management solutions while meeting legal requirements.
Food Waste Management Hierarchy
Effective management follows a four-tier hierarchy: prevention and reduction at source; redistribution of surplus edible food; recycling and treatment (e.g., anaerobic digestion, industrial composting); and final composting into nutrient-rich soil amendments.
Key Benefits of Composting Food Waste
- Prevents soil erosion by improving soil structure - Promotes healthier plant growth through enhanced nutrient availability - Conserves water via increased soil moisture retention - Reduces landfill waste and associated disposal costs - Lowers greenhouse gas emissions and agricultural odors
1. Documents Required for Food Recycling License
- Covering letter describing recycling activities
- Proof of site ownership or lease deed
- Company registration (MOA or partnership deed)
- Detailed site layout plan showing equipment, ETP, storage areas
- Environmental impact diagram (2 km radius)
- Process flowchart of recycling/manufacturing
- CA certificate for pollution control provisions
- KYC of authorized signatory (PAN/Aadhaar)
- Recent utility bills (electricity/water)
- GST registration certificate
- Factory license under the Factories Act
Procedure for Obtaining Food Recycling License
1. Submit the prescribed application form to the relevant State Pollution Control Board (SPCB).
2. Attach all required documents and detailed process descriptions.
3. SPCB conducts a site inspection to verify compliance.
4. Authority reviews inspection report and documentation.
5. On approval, SPCB issues Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO).
How Dostartup Helps You Secure Your License
Tailored end-to-end support for all application steps.
Expert guidance on document collection and drafting.
Coordination with SPCB officials for inspections.
Timely follow-up to ensure swift approval.
Dedicated project manager
100% application completeness guarantee
Transparent pricing and progress tracking
Post-approval compliance support
Partner with Dostartup to turn your food waste challenge into a sustainable opportunity.