What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the government body responsible for regulating and supervising food safety in India. It ensures that food businesses follow hygiene and quality standards. Any business dealing with food must obtain an FSSAI License or Registration to operate legally.
Why is FSSAI License Important?
Having an FSSAI License offers multiple benefits:
Legal Requirement: Operating without an FSSAI license can result in hefty fines or even business closure.
Builds Customer Trust: Consumers prefer buying from brands with FSSAI certification, knowing the food is safe.
Enhances Business Growth: Many large retailers, online platforms, and corporate clients require suppliers to have FSSAI approval.
Avoids Legal Hassles: Regular inspections and compliance ensure smooth business operations.
Quality Assurance: Ensures food quality standards and reduces the risk of contamination.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
There are three types of FSSAI registrations based on the scale and nature of the business:
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
Ideal for small food vendors, home-based food businesses, petty retailers, and hawkers.
Issued by the FSSAI at the state level.
2. State FSSAI License
Required for medium-sized businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
Suitable for mid-sized restaurants, food manufacturers, and storage units.
Issued by the State FSSAI Authority.
3. Central FSSAI License
Mandatory for large-scale food businesses with a turnover of ₹20 crore and above.
Needed by exporters, importers, large manufacturers, and food chains.
Issued by the Central FSSAI Authority.
Who Needs an FSSAI License?
If your business involves manufacturing, processing, packaging, distributing, or selling food, you need an FSSAI license. This includes:
Restaurants & Hotels
Cloud Kitchens
Food Processors & Manufacturers
Dairy & Meat Processing Units
Retail Food Vendors
Food Importers & Exporters
Packaged Food Sellers
Catering Businesses
E-commerce Food Sellers (Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, etc.)
Documents Required for FSSAI License
To apply for an FSSAI License, you need to submit the following documents:
Identity & Address Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN, Voter ID)
Business Registration Proof (GST Certificate, Incorporation Certificate, etc.)
Food Safety Management Plan
Address Proof of Business Premises (Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement)
List of Food Products You Deal With
Nominee Details (for companies & partnerships)
Import-Export Code (IEC), if applicable
How to Apply for an FSSAI License?
The process of applying for an FSSAI license is straightforward:
Step 1: Determine the Type of License
Check whether your business falls under Basic, State, or Central FSSAI License based on your turnover and operations.
Step 2: Register on the FSSAI Portal
Visit the FSSAI FoSCoS portal (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/) and create an account.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application (Form A or Form B)
Form A – For Basic FSSAI Registration
Form B – For State or Central FSSAI License
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Ensure all necessary documents are submitted correctly to avoid delays.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
The fee varies depending on the license type and business size.
Step 6: Inspection & Approval
The FSSAI authorities may inspect your premises before granting approval.
Once verified, you’ll receive your FSSAI Certificate within 30-60 days.
FSSAI License Validity & Renewal
FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the selected period.
Renew your license at least 30 days before expiration to avoid penalties.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Running a food business without an FSSAI license can lead to severe penalties:
Operating without a license: Fine up to ₹5 lakh
Selling unsafe food: Fine up to ₹10 lakh or imprisonment
Misbranding food: Fine up to ₹3 lakh
Substandard food quality: Fine up to ₹5 lakh
How to Check FSSAI License Status?
You can verify your FSSAI License status online by entering your FSSAI registration number on the FoSCoS portal.
Conclusion
Getting an FSSAI License is crucial for anyone in the food business. It not only ensures compliance with food safety laws but also helps build consumer trust and expand your business. Whether you run a small food stall or a large food chain, securing an FSSAI Registration is the first step toward a successful food venture.
Need help with the FSSAI application? Reach out to us for expert assistance and hassle-free registration!
