If you're in the food business in India—whether you're a restaurant owner, food manufacturer, retailer, or even running a small home-based food operation—the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is not just recommended, it's mandatory. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about FSSAI registration and licensing.
What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It was created to regulate and supervise food safety across the country, ensuring that food products meet quality and safety standards.
FSSAI registration or licensing serves as proof that your food business complies with food safety standards and is authorized to operate. It's essentially a quality assurance mark that builds consumer trust and ensures legal compliance.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
1. FSSAI Registration (Basic)
- Eligibility: Small food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs
- Validity: 1-5 years
- Fee: ₹100 for 1 year
- Examples: Small eateries, home-based food businesses, hawkers, small retailers
- Features: 14-digit registration number, basic compliance requirements
2. FSSAI State License
- Eligibility: Medium-scale food businesses with annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores
- Validity: 1-5 years
- Fee: ₹2,000-₹5,000 depending on food category and duration
- Examples: Mid-size restaurants, food processors, storage facilities
- Features: 14-digit license number, periodic inspections required
3. FSSAI Central License
- Eligibility: Large-scale food businesses with annual turnover above ₹20 crores, or businesses operating across states
- Validity: 1-5 years
- Fee: ₹7,500-₹10,000 depending on food category
- Examples: Large manufacturers, importers/exporters, big restaurant chains
- Features: 14-digit license number, strict compliance and audit requirements
Who Needs FSSAI License?
FSSAI registration or license is mandatory for all Food Business Operators (FBOs), including:
Manufacturing and Processing
- Food manufacturers and processors
- Packaging companies
- Milk collection centers and dairy units
- Slaughter houses and meat processing units
Trading and Distribution
- Wholesalers and distributors
- Retailers and grocery stores
- Online food businesses and e-commerce platforms
- Cold storage and warehouse operators
Food Service
- Restaurants and eateries
- Cloud kitchens and home-based food businesses
- Catering services
- Sweet shops and bakeries
- Food trucks and mobile vendors
Required Documents for FSSAI Registration
For Individual Proprietors
- Form B (application form)
- Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID)
- Address proof of applicant
- Address proof of food business premises
- Passport-size photographs
- NOC from municipality/panchayat (if required)
- Water testing report (for manufacturers)
For Companies/Partnerships
- Certificate of Incorporation/Partnership deed
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Board resolution authorizing the signatory
- List of directors/partners with their ID proofs
- All documents mentioned in individual category
Step-by-Step FSSAI Registration Process
Step 1: Determine Your License Type
Based on your annual turnover and business scale, decide whether you need basic registration, state license, or central license.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents as per your business type. Ensure all documents are current and properly attested if required.
Step 3: Online Application
Visit the FSSAI website (fssai.gov.in) and fill out the online application form. Upload all required documents in the specified format.
Step 4: Fee Payment
Pay the applicable fee online through net banking, credit card, or debit card. Keep the payment receipt for your records.
Step 5: Application Review
FSSAI officials will review your application. They may conduct an inspection of your premises for state and central licenses.
Step 6: License Issuance
Once approved, you'll receive your FSSAI registration/license certificate. For basic registration, this is usually immediate. State and central licenses may take 7-60 days.
Compliance Requirements and Renewal
Display Requirements
- Display FSSAI license/registration number prominently at your business premises
- Include the license number on all food packaging and marketing materials
- Ensure the number is visible to customers and regulatory authorities
Ongoing Compliance
- Maintain hygiene and safety standards as per FSSAI guidelines
- Keep records of suppliers, ingredients, and food safety measures
- Submit periodic returns (for state and central license holders)
- Allow inspections by FSSAI officials when required
Renewal Process
- Apply for renewal 30 days before expiry
- Update any changes in business operations or premises
- Pay renewal fees based on current fee structure
- Late renewal may attract penalty charges
Benefits of FSSAI License
- Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties and business closure
- Consumer Trust: Build credibility and brand reputation
- Market Access: Required for selling through organized retail and online platforms
- Business Growth: Essential for scaling operations and attracting investors
- Export Opportunities: Mandatory for food exports
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Operating without FSSAI license (can result in hefty fines)
- Choosing wrong license category based on turnover
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation
- Not renewing license before expiry
- Failing to update license for business changes
Conclusion
FSSAI registration is not just a regulatory requirement—it's a cornerstone of building a trustworthy food business in India. Whether you're starting small or operating at scale, getting the right FSSAI license protects your business and assures your customers of quality and safety.
Need help with FSSAI registration or have questions about food business compliance? Our experts at Return Filer specialize in food business licensing and can guide you through the entire process. Get started with your FSSAI registration today.