Complete Guide to Home Industry Food Licensing Based on Indonesian Food Safety Regulations
Food safety is a fundamental requirement for any food and beverage business operating in Indonesia. Every processed food product distributed in the market must comply with national safety, quality, and labeling standards. In Indonesia, food business licensing commonly involves BPOM and PIRT, which serve different regulatory purposes depending on business scale and product category.
The regulatory framework is based on Law Number 18 of 2012 concerning Food, Government Regulation Number 86 of 2019 on Food Safety, and various implementing regulations issued by Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan Republik Indonesia. For small-scale home industries, the relevant certification is the Home Industry Food Production Certificate (SPP-IRT), issued by local government authorities.
Understanding BPOM and PIRT
What is BPOM?
BPOM is the Indonesian National Agency of Drug and Food Control responsible for supervising drugs, cosmetics, supplements, and processed food products. BPOM issues MD numbers for domestically manufactured industrial products and ML numbers for imported products. Medium and large-scale food manufacturers must obtain BPOM distribution permits before marketing their products nationwide or through major retail channels.
What is PIRT?
PIRT is a distribution permit specifically for low to medium-risk processed food products produced by home industries. The PIRT number confirms that the product has met minimum food safety standards, including hygiene practices, labeling compliance, and participation in food safety training.
The certificate is generally valid for five years and may be extended according to applicable regulations.
Legal Basis and Regulatory Framework
Key regulations governing BPOM and PIRT include:
-
Law No. 18 of 2012 on Food
-
Government Regulation No. 86 of 2019 on Food Safety
-
BPOM Regulations on Processed Food Labeling
-
BPOM Regulations on Good Manufacturing Practices (CPPOB)
-
Ministerial Regulations on Home Industry Food Production Certification
These regulations cover ingredient safety, production standards, packaging requirements, labeling information, expiration date rules, and distribution compliance.
Differences Between BPOM and PIRT
Business Scale
-
PIRT applies to home-based food industries.
-
BPOM MD/ML applies to medium-large industries and imported food products.
Product Category
Certain high-risk products such as infant formula, sterilized milk products, alcoholic beverages, and specialized nutrition products require BPOM registration rather than PIRT.
Application Process
PIRT is processed through local government offices, while BPOM registration is conducted online through the BPOM e-registration system.
Why Licensing is Important
Obtaining BPOM or PIRT certification provides:
-
Legal certainty and compliance
-
Consumer trust and brand credibility
-
Access to modern retail markets
-
Reduced legal risk
-
Business scalability opportunities
Operating without proper licensing may result in product recalls, administrative penalties, or legal sanctions under Indonesian law.
General Procedure for PIRT Registration
-
Obtain Business Identification Number (NIB) through OSS
-
Attend food safety training
-
Prepare product documentation and labeling
-
Facility inspection
-
Issuance of PIRT number
BPOM MD registration requires additional laboratory testing, comprehensive formulation data, and stricter compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices.
Conclusion
BPOM and PIRT certification are essential components of Indonesia’s food safety system. Choosing the appropriate license depends on business scale, product type, and market objectives. Regulatory compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a strategic step toward sustainable business growth.
Biruni Consulting provides professional consultancy services to assist businesses in obtaining BPOM and PIRT licenses in full compliance with Indonesian regulations. Our team supports clients from document preparation and label evaluation to regulatory submission and approval. With regulatory expertise and structured assistance, Biruni Consulting ensures your food business operates legally and confidently in the Indonesian market.
