FSSAI Registration | Step-by-Step Food License Registration GuideÂ
FSSAI Registration | Step-by-Step Food License Registration GuideÂ
Running a food business in India is not possible without FSSAI registration. Whether you are selling food from home, running a restaurant, starting a food factory, or selling food online, getting an FSSAI food license is a legal requirement. This registration ensures that the food sold to customers is safe, clean, and follows government rules.
In this detailed guide, you will learn everything about FSSAI registration, its importance, types of food licenses, eligibility, required documents, step-by-step registration process, validity, renewal, and penalties. This article is written in simple English so that anyone can understand it easily.
FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a government body that controls food safety and quality in India. FSSAI registration or food license is a certificate issued by this authority to food business owners.
This registration shows that the food business follows hygiene and safety standards set by the government. Every food business operator must register under FSSAI before starting operations.
FSSAI registration is important because it is legally required under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Without this registration, running a food business is illegal in India.
This license builds trust among customers because it shows that the food is safe to eat. It also helps businesses grow, as many online platforms, supermarkets, and delivery apps ask for FSSAI registration before allowing food sales.
FSSAI registration also helps avoid legal penalties, fines, and business closure. It improves brand value and gives better business opportunities.
Any person or company involved in food related activities must get FSSAI registration. This includes home based food sellers, restaurants, cafes, hotels, food trucks, bakeries, sweet shops, caterers, cloud kitchens, food manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, importers, exporters, and online food sellers.
Even small food businesses or startups must apply for FSSAI registration before selling food.
FSSAI offers three types of food licenses based on business size and turnover.
Basic FSSAI registration is for small food businesses with an annual turnover of up to twelve lakh rupees. This is suitable for home kitchens, small shops, and petty food sellers.
State FSSAI license is for medium sized food businesses with a turnover between twelve lakh and twenty crore rupees. Restaurants, mid-size manufacturers, and distributors usually need this license.
Central FSSAI license is for large food businesses with a turnover above twenty crore rupees. It is also required for importers, exporters, large manufacturers, and businesses operating in multiple states.
The documents required for FSSAI registration depend on the type of license. Common documents include identity proof, address proof, passport size photo, business address proof, food safety management plan, and details of food products.
For state and central licenses, additional documents like layout plan, machinery details, water test report, and authority letter may be required.
The FSSAI registration process is simple and fully online. First, the applicant needs to visit the official FSSAI portal. After creating an account, the applicant selects the type of food license based on business size.
Next, the application form is filled with correct business details such as name, address, food category, and contact information. After filling the form, required documents are uploaded.
Once documents are uploaded, the application fee is paid online. After submission, the application is reviewed by the food department.
In some cases, a food safety officer may inspect the business premises. If everything is found correct, the FSSAI registration certificate is issued.
The certificate contains a 14-digit FSSAI registration number which must be printed on food packaging and displayed at the business place.
The time required for FSSAI registration depends on the license type. Basic registration usually takes seven to ten working days.
State license may take fifteen to thirty working days. Central license may take up to sixty days, especially if inspection is required.
FSSAI registration is valid for one to five years depending on the option selected during application. Choosing a longer validity helps save renewal costs.
The license must be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties. Renewal can be done online through the FSSAI portal.
FSSAI license renewal should be done at least thirty days before expiry. The renewal process is similar to new registration.
The applicant logs in to the portal, selects renewal option, updates details if required, uploads documents, and pays the renewal fee.
Late renewal may attract penalties, and expired licenses may require fresh registration.
Running a food business without FSSAI registration can lead to heavy penalties. The fine can go up to five lakh rupees.
In serious cases, the business may be shut down by authorities. Selling unsafe food can also result in imprisonment.
That is why it is very important to get FSSAI registration before starting any food business.
FSSAI registration gives legal permission to run a food business in India. It builds customer trust and increases brand value.
It helps in business expansion, online selling, and getting loans or investments. It also ensures food quality and safety.
Having an FSSAI license protects the business from legal issues and improves overall business credibility.
Many applicants choose the wrong license type, which can cause rejection or delay. Uploading incorrect or unclear documents is another common mistake.
Providing wrong business details or food category can also create problems. It is always better to double check information before submission.
Taking professional help can save time and avoid errors.
FSSAI registration is not just a legal formality but an important step for running a successful food business in India. It ensures food safety, builds customer trust, and opens doors for business growth.
Whether you are starting small or planning a large food business, getting the right FSSAI food license is essential. The registration process is simple, online, and affordable.
If you want to start or already run a food business, apply for FSSAI registration today and make your business legally safe and trusted.
The cost of FSSAI registration depends on the type of food license. Basic FSSAI registration has a very low government fee and is suitable for small food businesses. State and Central FSSAI licenses cost more because they are issued to medium and large food businesses. The final cost may increase if professional services are used.
Yes, FSSAI registration is mandatory for home based food businesses. If you prepare food at home and sell it online, offline, or through delivery apps, you must have at least a Basic FSSAI registration. Without this registration, running a home food business is illegal in India.
The time required to get an FSSAI food license depends on the license category. Basic FSSAI registration usually takes seven to ten working days. State FSSAI license may take fifteen to thirty working days. Central FSSAI license can take up to sixty working days if inspection is involved.
FSSAI registration should be renewed before the expiry date. If the license expires, a late fee may be charged for each day of delay. In case of long delay, a fresh FSSAI registration may be required. Timely renewal helps avoid penalties and business interruption.