Food License Registration – A Complete Guide for Food Businesses in India
Food License Registration – A Complete Guide for Food Businesses in India
Starting a food business in India? Whether you run a restaurant, bakery, catering service, food truck, or packaged food company, obtaining a Food License Registration is essential. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates this process to ensure that all food-related businesses maintain hygiene, quality, and safety standards.
This blog explains everything you need to know about FSSAI Food License Registration, its types, process, documents required, and benefits.
Food License Registration, also known as FSSAI Registration, is a mandatory requirement under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to regulate food businesses and ensure that consumers receive safe, hygienic, and high-quality food.
Every food operator involved in manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain this license before starting operations.
The FSSAI Food License is mandatory for:
Restaurants, cafes, dhabas, and hotels
Food manufacturers and processors
Food packaging and labeling units
Food importers and exporters
Online food delivery platforms
Canteens, clubs, and caterers
Retailers and wholesalers of food products
Dairy, meat, and seafood businesses
In short, if you are involved in any stage of the food supply chain, you must have a valid Food License Registration.
Depending on the scale and nature of the business, the FSSAI issues three types of food licenses:
For small food businesses or startups.
Annual turnover should be below ₹12 lakh.
Suitable for small vendors, home-based food sellers, and petty retailers.
For medium-sized food businesses.
Annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
Applicable to small manufacturers, restaurants, and distributors operating within one state.
For large-scale food businesses.
Annual turnover above ₹20 crore.
Mandatory for importers, exporters, and large manufacturers.
To apply for FSSAI Food License, you need to submit the following documents:
Passport-size photograph of the applicant
Valid identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID)
Proof of business address (electricity bill, rent agreement)
List of food products to be handled
Partnership deed or incorporation certificate (for companies)
Layout plan of the food premises
NOC from the municipality or local body
Proof of turnover (for State or Central license)
Additional documents may be required depending on the type and scale of your food business.
You can easily apply for Food License Registration Online through the official FSSAI portal. Follow these steps:
Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in – the official website for FSSAI registration.
Create a new user account by providing your contact details and selecting your state.
Select the type of license (Basic, State, or Central).
Fill out all required details about your food business.
Upload the necessary documents.
Pay the prescribed fee online according to your license type.
In some cases, an FSSAI officer may inspect your premises before approval.
Once approved, you’ll receive your FSSAI Food License Number — a 14-digit registration number that must be displayed on all your food packaging and business premises.
Getting an FSSAI Food License not only ensures legal compliance but also brings many benefits:
✅ Builds consumer trust – It shows your business follows food safety standards.
✅ Enhances brand credibility – Helps attract customers and business partners.
✅ Business expansion – Necessary for export and e-commerce operations.
✅ Legal protection – Avoids penalties and legal actions for non-compliance.
✅ Quality assurance – Ensures your products meet FSSAI hygiene standards.
Operating a food business without a valid FSSAI License is a punishable offense under the FSSAI Act, 2006.
Penalties may include:
Fine up to ₹5 lakh for not having a license.
Suspension or cancellation of business operations.
Legal actions in case of unsafe or misbranded food.
The FSSAI License is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the tenure selected during registration.
You must renew your license at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees or cancellation.
Steps for Renewal:
Visit the FSSAI portal.
Login with your credentials.
Select ‘Renewal’ option and upload the updated documents.
Pay the renewal fee and submit the application.
Obtaining a Food License Registration is not just a legal formality—it’s a commitment to providing safe and quality food to customers. Whether you are starting a small food stall or managing a large manufacturing unit, FSSAI Registration is the first step towards establishing a trustworthy and compliant food business in India.