FSSAI License India: Everything You Need to Know
What is FSSAI and why is it Important?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a government body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI is responsible for regulating the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food items to ensure they are safe for consumption.
Importance:
Prevents food adulteration and contamination
Builds consumer trust
Ensures compliance with hygiene and safety standards
Helps businesses grow by improving credibility
Types of FSSAI Licenses
Depending on your business size and revenue, FSSAI offers three license types:
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
For small businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakhs/year
Ideal for home kitchens, food vendors, and small sellers
2. State License
For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores
Suitable for medium-sized restaurants, manufacturers, or units operating in one state
3. Central License
For businesses with a turnover of over ₹20 crores or operating in multiple states
Mandatory for importers/exporters, large-scale manufacturers, food chains, and online platforms
Who Needs an FSSAI License in India?
Any business involved in:
Manufacturing or processing food
Storing or distributing food
Transporting food items
Selling packaged or unpackaged food
Running restaurants, cafes, dhabas, canteens
Operating online food delivery apps or platforms
Importing or exporting food products
Even small street food vendors need a basic FSSAI registration to operate legally.
Documents Required for FSSAI License
PAN Card of Business Owner/Company
Passport-size photograph
Proof of address (electricity bill, rent agreement, etc.)
Business registration certificate
List of food products handled
Layout plan of premises (for State/Central License)
Food safety management plan
Import Export Code (for importers)
FSSAI License Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide:
Register on FoSCoS portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Choose your license type based on turnover and business scale
Fill out application Form A or Form B
Upload documents
Pay applicable fees
Inspection (for State and Central License)
Receive a license if approved
FSSAI License Validity & Renewal
FSSAI licenses are issued for 1 to 5 years, depending on your choice during application. It's mandatory to renew the license 30 days before expiry. Operating with an expired license can result in penalties.
Penalty for Not Having an FSSAI License
Running a food business without an FSSAI license is a punishable offense. Penalties can go up to ₹5 lakhs, and in serious cases, imprisonment. It can also lead to:
Seizure of food products
Cancellation of business license
Damage to brand reputation
Benefits of Getting an FSSAI License
Builds credibility and customer trust
Legal protection and fewer compliance issues
Boosts brand value
Enables business expansion
Access to government tenders and loans
Conclusion
If you're serious about running a food business in India, getting your FSSAI license is not just a formality—it’s a necessity. It ensures that your operations are safe, legal, and consumer-friendly. With the FSSAI stamp of approval, you're not just selling food; you're serving safety and trust.
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