Food safety is a critical concern in India, and to ensure consumer health, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates registration or licensing for all food-related businesses. Whether you run a small home kitchen or a large manufacturing unit, FSSAI registration in India is a legal requirement.
This guide provides complete details about eligibility, required documents, registration process, post-registration compliance, and official portals, ensuring your food business operates legally and transparently.
1. 🧾 What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI registration is the process by which food businesses obtain a 14-digit FSSAI license number issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This number must be printed on all food packages, allowing authorities and consumers to trace the source.
2. ✅ Eligibility Criteria
FSSAI offers three types of registrations/licenses based on the scale and nature of operations:
| Type of FSSAI License | Eligible Businesses | Annual Turnover Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Small FBOs (home kitchens, small vendors, petty retailers) | Up to ₹12 lakhs |
| State License | Medium FBOs (distributors, restaurants, mid-level manufacturers) | ₹12 lakhs – ₹20 crores |
| Central License | Large FBOs (importers, exporters, large manufacturers, eCommerce) | Above ₹20 crores |
🔹 Applicable to all businesses involved in manufacturing, storing, transporting, distributing, or selling food items.
3. 🎯 Benefits of FSSAI Registration in India
- ✅ Legal authorization to operate food business
- 📈 Consumer trust and brand credibility
- 🧾 Ensures quality control and safety
- 🌐 Required for export/import approvals
- 🏢 Mandatory for eCommerce listing (Amazon, Flipkart, Zomato, etc.)
4. 📑 Documents Required
1. For Basic Registration:
- Passport size photo of applicant
- Address proof – Aadhaar/Voter ID
- Business name and location details
- Food category details
- Email ID and Mobile number
2. For State License:
- Form-B duly completed and signed
- Proof of premises (Rent Agreement/Utility Bill)
- Food safety management plan
- Photo ID and address proof
- Layout plan of the unit
- Equipment details
- List of food products
3. For Central License:
- All documents of State License +
- Import/Export Code (IEC)
- NOC from the Ministry of Commerce (if required)
- Proof of turnover above ₹20 crores
- Details of technical personnel
- Water test report
- Source of raw material
5. 🌐 Official FSSAI Portal
| Portal Name | Website URL |
|---|---|
| Food Safety and Compliance System (FoSCoS) | https://foscos.fssai.gov.in |
6. 🧷 Step-by-Step Registration Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit https://foscos.fssai.gov.in |
| 2 | Click on ‘Apply for Registration/License’ |
| 3 | Select business type, location, turnover to determine license type |
| 4 | Fill out Form-A (Basic) or Form-B (State/Central) |
| 5 | Upload required documents |
| 6 | Pay applicable fee (₹100 to ₹7,500 depending on license type) |
| 7 | Submit application and note reference number |
| 8 | Application reviewed by Designated Officer |
| 9 | Inspection conducted if required |
| 10 | Certificate issued (valid for 1–5 years) |
⏱ Timeline: 7–60 working days
💳 Fees: ₹100/year for Basic, ₹2,000–₹5,000/year for State, ₹7,500/year for Central
7. 📌 Post-Registration Compliances
| Compliance | Timeline/Frequency | Mandatory | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renewal of license | Every 1–5 years | ✅ Yes | High |
| Filing Annual Return (Form D1 for Manufacturers) | By 31st May each year | ✅ Yes | High |
| Display of FSSAI license number | On all food packaging | ✅ Yes | High |
| Regular hygiene and safety audits | As instructed | ✅ Yes | Medium |
| Update details in FoSCoS portal (if changed) | Within 30 days | ✅ Yes | High |
| Maintain proper storage, labeling & records | Continuous | ✅ Yes | High |
8. 📊 Summary Table
| Point | Basic | State | Central |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Turnover < ₹12L | ₹12L–₹20Cr | > ₹20Cr or import/export |
| License Form | Form A | Form B | Form B |
| Validity Period | 1–5 years | 1–5 years | 1–5 years |
| Fees | ₹100/year | ₹2,000–₹5,000/year | ₹7,500/year |
| Authority | Local Food Officer | State Food Authority | Central FSSAI Authority |
| Annual Return | Not Required | Required | Required |
📌 Internal & External Links
- Explore step-by-step GST Registration Guide for your food business
- Planning to export packaged food? Start with IEC Code Registration
- Know how to apply for Shops and Establishment Registration if you run a food outlet
- Visit the FSSAI FoSCoS Portal for application status and renewal
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who needs FSSAI registration in India?
All food business operators including petty hawkers, home chefs, restaurants, manufacturers, and importers. - What is the validity of FSSAI license?
It is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on your choice at the time of application. - Can I sell food online without FSSAI license?
No. All online sellers must have valid FSSAI license. - What happens if I operate without FSSAI license?
A fine up to ₹5 lakh or imprisonment can be imposed. - Is inspection mandatory for registration?
It is usually conducted for State and Central Licenses, not Basic Registration. - What is the difference between State and Central License?
The difference lies in the business scale and jurisdiction of operations. - Can I use one license for multiple locations?
No. Separate license is needed for each unit or premises. - How to renew the license?
Log in to the FoSCoS portal and apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiry. - Can MSMEs get any concession?
There’s no fee concession, but documentation is generally simplified. - Is FSSAI logo mandatory on packaging?
Yes, along with the 14-digit license number.
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