FSSAI Registration
FSSAI Registration is a compulsory requirement for all individuals and entities engaged in the food business in India Whether you're a food manufacturer, trader, restaurant owner, or even a small home-based kitchen, obtaining an FSSAI license or registration is essential. Governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, this registration ensures that the food products sold or distributed meet the quality and safety standards laid down by the law.
The main objective of FSSAI registration is to maintain public health by ensuring food safety and hygiene. It also helps build trust among consumers and provides a legal identity to food businesses. Based on the scale and nature of operations, FSSAI grants three categories of licenses -Basic Registration, State License, and Central License.
In simple terms, FSSAI registration is the first step for any food business to operate legally and responsibly in India.
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
The documents required for FSSAI Registration vary depending on the category of license-Basic, State, or Central- and the scale of the food business. Here’s a general list of documents needed for each type:-
For Basic FSSAI Registration (applicable to small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh):
- Passport-size photograph of the applicant
- Photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Driving License, etc.)
- Business name and address proof (Utility bill, rent agreement, or ownership documents)
- Details of the food category to be dealt with
- Declaration form (Form-A)
For State FSSAI License (Turnover between ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore/year):
- All documents required for Basic Registration
- Form-B, duly filled and signed by the Proprietor, Partner, or Director.
- Partnership deed / MOA & AOA / Incorporation Certificate (for companies/LLPs)
- List of Directors/Partners with ID & address proof
- Food safety management plan
- Proof of business premises (electricity bill, rent agreement, etc.)
- List of food products to be dealt with
- NOC from municipality/local body (if required)
For Central FSSAI License (Turnover above ₹20 crore/year or businesses dealing in import/export, large-scale manufacturing, etc.):
- All documents required for State License
- Import Export Code (IEC) for importers/exporters
- Proof of turnover (bank statement, audited accounts)
- Water testing report (if applicable)
- NOC from FSSAI / Ministry of Commerce (for exporters)
- Source of raw material
- Production unit layout and equipment details
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
FSSAI Registration offers several important benefits to food businesses of all sizes. Here are the key advantages:
Legal Authorization
FSSAI registration gives your food business a legal identity and the right to operate in India. Without it, running a food-related business is illegal.
Builds Consumer Trust
An FSSAI license assures customers that the food is safe, hygienic, and quality-checked, which improves your brand's credibility and trustworthiness.
Boosts Business Expansion
Having FSSAI registration makes it easier to expand your business, open new branches, and get government contracts or partnerships with reputed brands.
Enhances Brand Value
Displaying the FSSAI logo on your products or premises improves the professional image of your brand and helps in marketing and promotion.
Ensures Food Safety Compliance
The registration ensures your business follows the rules and guidelines set by FSSAI, which helps prevent penalties or legal issues.
Access to Business Loans and Investments
Most banks and financial institutions prefer lending to businesses that are legally compliant, making it easier to get loans or attract investors.
Facilitates Import/Export
An FSSAI Central License is mandatory for food importers and exporters, enabling your business to grow globally.
Supports Consumer Grievance Handling
Registered businesses are better equipped to handle customer complaints and take corrective action as per food safety norms.
Types of FSSAI Registration
FSSAI Registration is categorized into three types based on the nature, size, and annual turnover of the food business. Here's a simple breakdown of each type:
Basic FSSAI Registration
- For: Small food businesses and startups
- Turnover Limit: Up to ₹12 lakhs per annum
- Examples: Small retailers, hawkers, home-based food units, petty food vendors
- Authority Issued By: State Government
- Document Required: Basic identity proof, business address, and Form A
Suitable for: Home kitchens, tea stalls, small food carts, local vendors
State FSSAI Licence
- For: Medium-sized food businesses
- Turnover Limit: ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores per annum
- Examples: Restaurants, small manufacturers, transporters, marketers, storage units within the state
- Authority Issued By: State Government
- Document Required: Form B, business registration documents, list of food products, hygiene and safety plan
Suitable for: Mid-size restaurants, catering units, food distributors
Central FSSAI Licence
- For: Large food businesses or businesses operating in more than one state.
- Turnover Limit: Above ₹20 crores per annum.
- Examples: Large manufacturers, importers, exporters, food chains, government agencies
- Authority Issued By: Central Government (FSSAI Head Office)
- Document Required: Form B, plant layout, source of raw material, production capacity, IEC (for exporters/importers), etc.
Suitable for: Big food brands, franchises, export-oriented units
Choosing the right type of FSSAI registration ensures legal compliance and smooth operation of your food business. Always apply for the appropriate license based on your scale and operations.
Who Should Obtain FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI registration is compulsory for all food business operators (FBOs) in India, irrespective of their business size or operations scale. If you are involved in any activity related to food, you must obtain FSSAI registration or license as per your business category.
Food Manufacturers
- All food-producing units, whether operating on a small or large scale, must obtain FSSAI registration to legally carry out their activities in India.
- Includes packaged food, snacks, beverages, etc.
Food Traders and Retailers: Wholesalers, distributors, and retailers selling food items
Food Storage Units: Cold storage, warehouses, and godowns storing food items
Restaurants and Cafes: Small dhabas to large restaurant chains and catering services
Online Food Businesses: Food delivery apps, cloud kitchens, and aggregators like Swiggy, Zomato, etc.
Exporters and Importers of Food Products: Mandatory Central FSSAI license required for international trade.
Home-Based Food Businesses: Individuals selling homemade food, bakery items, pickles, etc.
Food Packaging and Repacking Units: Units involved in packing or repackaging food products
Canteens and Mess Services: School, college, office, hospital canteens, and tiffin services
Important Note:
Even petty food businesses or vendors (like tea stalls, street food vendors, or home cooks) must register under Basic FSSAI Registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FSSAI registration?
FSSAI Registration is a certification granted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, allowing food businesses to operate while ensuring they adhere to the required safety and hygiene regulations.
Is FSSAI registration mandatory?
Yes, it is mandatory for all food business operators (FBOs) in India, regardless of the scale of operation.
Who needs FSSAI registration?
Any individual or entity involved in food manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, or sale must register with FSSAI.
What are the types of FSSAI licenses?
There are three types:
- Basic Registration
- State License
- Central License
What is the difference between FSSAI registration and license?
Basic registration is for small businesses (turnover up to ₹12 lakh), while licenses (State and Central) are for medium and large food businesses.
How can I apply for FSSAI registration?
You can apply online through the FSSAI’s official portal https://foscos.fssai.gov.in or with the help of a consultant.
How long is an FSSAI license valid for?
FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the application. It must be renewed before expiry.
What is the fee for FSSAI registration?
The government fee ranges from ₹100 to ₹7500 per year, depending on the type of license and business category.
Can a single license be used for multiple businesses?
No, each food business location requires a separate FSSAI license.
What documents are needed for FSSAI registration?
Documents include ID proof, address proof, passport photo, business details, and supporting documents like rent agreement, utility bill, etc.
How long does it take to get the FSSAI license?
Generally, it takes 7–30 working days, depending on the license type and document verification.
What is Form A and Form B in FSSAI?
Is the FSSAI logo mandatory on food packaging?
Yes, the FSSAI logo and license number must be printed on packaged food labels.
Can I sell food online without FSSAI registration?
No, all online food sellers, including cloud kitchens, must have a valid FSSAI license.
What happens if I don’t register with FSSAI?
Running a food business without registration is illegal and can result in penalties up to ₹5 lakhs and imprisonment.
Do home-based food businesses need FSSAI registration?
Yes, even home kitchens selling food must register under the Basic FSSAI Registration category.
What is the FSSAI license number?
It is a 14-digit unique number that identifies your food business and must be displayed on food products and premises.
Can I upgrade my FSSAI license?
Yes, if your business grows beyond your current license limit, you must upgrade to a State or Central license.
Is FSSAI license transferable?
No, FSSAI licenses are non-transferable. In case of ownership change, a new license must be obtained.
How do I renew my FSSAI license?
Renew it online via the FSSAI portal before the expiry date. Late renewals may attract penalties or cancellation.