FSSAI REGISTRATION: A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR FOOD BUSINESSES IN INDIA

FSSAI Registration: A Complete Guide for Food Businesses in India

FSSAI Registration: A Complete Guide for Food Businesses in India

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If you want to start a food business in India—whether it is a restaurant, food truck, homemade kitchen, cloud kitchen, catering service, or food packaging—you must follow certain rules. One of the most important legal requirements is FSSAI registration. Without this registration, your food business is not legally allowed to operate.

This article explains what FSSAI Registration Online is, why it is important, who needs it, and how to apply for it step by step.

What is FSSAI?


FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is the main government body responsible for setting rules and standards for food products in India. FSSAI ensures that the food we eat is safe, hygienic, and of good quality.

FSSAI was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It supervises the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food.

What is FSSAI Registration?


FSSAI registration is a 14-digit number issued by the authority to food business operators (FBOs). This number must be printed on food packages and displayed at food outlets. The number shows that the business is legally registered and follows safety rules.

There are three types of FSSAI licenses based on the size and type of the business:

  1. FSSAI Basic Registration – For small businesses with a turnover up to ₹12 lakhs per year.

  2. FSSAI State License – For medium-sized businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores.

  3. FSSAI Central License – For large-scale businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crores or dealing in import/export.


Who Needs FSSAI Registration?


Any individual or organization involved in the food business must get an FSSAI registration or license. This includes:

  • Food manufacturers

  • Food processors and packagers

  • Food sellers and retailers

  • Online food businesses

  • Cloud kitchens and home-based food sellers

  • Catering businesses

  • Food transporters and distributors

  • Importers and exporters of food


Benefits of FSSAI Registration


Registering your food business with FSSAI offers many advantages:

  1. Legal Permission: FSSAI registration gives you the legal right to run a food business in India.

  2. Customer Trust: When customers see the FSSAI logo, they know the food is safe and meets quality standards.

  3. Business Expansion: FSSAI registration helps when you want to list your products on platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, Flipkart, or BigBasket.

  4. Avoid Legal Trouble: Running a food business without FSSAI registration can result in penalties, fines, or closure by the authorities.

  5. Marketing Advantage: You can use the FSSAI logo on your packaging and promotional material to boost your brand image.


Documents Required for FSSAI Registration


To apply for FSSAI registration, you need to submit some basic documents:

For Basic Registration:



  • Photo of the applicant

  • Address proof (Aadhaar, voter ID)

  • PAN card

  • Proof of business premises (rental agreement, electricity bill)

  • Nature of business (food category and activity)

  • Declaration form


For State/Central License:



  • All documents from basic registration

  • Food safety management plan

  • Business plan

  • Import/export code (if applicable)

  • Certificate of incorporation (for companies)
    Water and product testing report


How to Apply for FSSAI Registration Online


FSSAI registration can be done online through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. Here are the steps:

  1. Visit Website – Open the official FSSAI registration portal.

  2. Fill Application Form – Enter your name, business details, and food category, and upload your PAN card.

  3. Review & Submit – Check all details and submit the form.

  4. Pay Fee – Complete the payment online as per your license type.

  5. Verify OTP – Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile or email.

  6. Inspection (If Required) – Officials may inspect your premises for approval.

  7. Get an FSSAI License – Once approved, download your FSSAI license from the website


Time Required to Get FSSAI Registration



  • Basic Registration – Usually takes 7–10 working days

  • State License – May take 15–30 days

  • Central License – Can take 30–60 days


Renewal of FSSAI License


FSSAI licenses must be renewed before they expire. It is recommended to apply for renewal at least 30 days before the expiry date. If you miss the deadline, you may have to pay a late fee or apply again as a new applicant.

Renewal can also be done online using the FoSCoS portal.

Note: Now easily Tatkal FSSAI license through the FSSAI Registration

Conclusion


FSSAI registration is a crucial step for starting and running a food business in India. It protects the health of consumers and ensures that food operators follow safety rules. Whether your food business is small or large, home-based or commercial, offline or online, FSSAI registration gives your business credibility and legal backing.

If you are planning to enter the food industry, make FSSAI registration your first step. It is affordable, easy to apply for, and essential for long-term success.

 

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