The Sanitary licence certify’s that an establishment handling food is keeping a high standard of sanitation and hygiene control.

What is involved in obtaining the Sanitary Licence?

In order to obtain this licence, the company needs to present a detailed description of its procedures, prepared by an authorised sanitation technician, which thus provides proof that the sanitation of the establishment is periodically being reviewed and supervised by a qualified inspector.

Sanitation authorities normally inspect the premises before issuing a permanent sanitary licence. They inspect the entire premises, the refrigerators, utilities etc… and determine whether these meet the required standards. They also review the distribution channels, most importantly, the origin of the company’s products. Suppliers need to have a sanitary licence too.

The preparation required for the company to obtain the licence frequently involves:

1. A pre-examination detailing the requirements needed to obtain a successful evaluation by Sanitary Authorities and advice on the changes to implement.
2. Preparation of Technical documentation in which the procedures are explained.
3. Implementation of Self-control hygiene plans and training of supervisors.
4. Submission of application forms, payment of tax and following up on results.
5. Technical assistance with the Authorities who inspect the premises.

Which companies are obliged to obtain a Sanitary Licence?

Companies involved in any of the following areas of food distribution.

• Producing
• Storage
• Distribution
• Export/ Import

What can happens if I trade my products without the sanitary licence?

Law (Real Decreto) 191/2011 stipulates the obligation to obtain this licence, and it establishes the fines and penalties for companies that do not meet this requirement. All companies in the food distribution chain are obliged to request the Sanitary registration number of their suppliers.

Find assistance to obtain your Licence.