Chapter IX - Offences and Penalties
Section 55
Section 55: failure to comply with Food Safety Officer directions
Section 55 concerns a food business operator or importer who, without reasonable ground, fails to comply with an applicable Food Safety Officer direction.
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Need advice on Section 55?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
If a food business operator or importer without reasonable ground, fails to comply with the requirements of this Act or the rules or regulations or orders issued thereunder, as directed by the Food Safety Officer, he shall be liable to a penalty which may extend to two lakh rupees.
Introduction
The direction must concern requirements of the Act, rules, regulations or orders made under them. The penalty may extend to ₹2 lakh.
A business should identify the precise direction, legal basis, service date and compliance deadline, then preserve any evidence supporting a reasonable ground for non-compliance.
Key takeaways
Limited persons and directions
The provision names a food business operator or importer and a direction from a Food Safety Officer under the food-law framework.
Reasonable ground matters
The statutory wording targets failure without reasonable ground; any claimed ground needs timely evidence.
₹2 lakh is a maximum
The penalty may extend to ₹2 lakh, not automatically equal that amount.
Record the direction
Keep the written order, inspection notes, date received, statutory basis and required action in one file.
Act or explain promptly
Assign responsibility for completion, document steps and communicate any genuine obstacle with evidence rather than ignoring the direction.
Check scope and consequence
Assess whether the direction was under the relevant Act, rules, regulations or order, and distinguish section 55 from a separate specific contravention.
Official sources
Read the consolidated Act with the enacted and commenced amendments applicable to this section.
Practical checklist
Do
- Maintain a register of inspection directions and deadlines.
- Preserve compliance proof and written communications.
- Seek prompt advice if a direction is disputed or impossible to fulfil.
Avoid
- Do not ignore an FSO direction.
- Do not invent a reasonable-ground explanation after the deadline without supporting records.
Frequently asked questions
Does every late response automatically attract ₹2 lakh?
No. The provision requires failure without reasonable ground and sets an upper limit, not a fixed penalty.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 9 October 2026