What is FSSAI License?

The FSSAI License is a mandatory certification issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to all food-related businesses in India. Whether you're a food manufacturer, restaurant, food truck owner, online food delivery platform, or a home-based kitchen, having an FSSAI license ensures your business complies with food safety and hygiene standards.

Why is FSSAI License Important?

1. Legal Requirement: It is mandatory under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

2. Builds Trust: Consumers are more likely to trust food from licensed establishments.

3. Quality Assurance: Ensures food is safe, hygienic, and up to regulatory standards.

4. Avoid Penalties: Operating without a license can lead to hefty fines or closure.

5. Expansion-Friendly: Essential for online platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, Amazon Pantry, etc.

Types of FSSAI Licenses

1. FSSAI Basic Registration

   1. For small businesses with annual turnover < ₹12 lakhs

   2. Ideal for petty food vendors, hawkers, and small-scale food units

2. FSSAI State License

   1. For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore

   2. Suitable for small manufacturers, storage units, transporters, and restaurants

3. FSSAI Central License

   1. For large businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore or those involved in import/export

   2. Required for e-commerce food businesses, large manufacturers, and operators across multiple states

Who Needs an FSSAI License?

1. Food manufacturers and processors

2. Restaurant owners, cafes, and bars

3. Food caterers and mess providers

4. Packaged food sellers and distributors

5. Online food businesses and delivery platforms

6. Home-based food kitchens and tiffin services

7. Importers/exporters of food products

Documents Required

For Basic and State License:

1. Photo ID of the applicant (Aadhaar, PAN)

2. Address proof of the business premises

3. Business registration certificate

4. Food safety management plan

5. List of food items or products handled

6. Passport-size photograph

For Central License:

1. Import/export code (IEC) if applicable

2. Form B duly signed

3. Water and laboratory test reports

4. Proof of turnover

5. Blueprint/layout plan of the premises

6. Authority letter for authorized signatory

How to Apply for FSSAI License

1. Visit the FoSCoS Portal

2. Sign Up/Register your food business

3. Choose the License Type based on turnover and business scale

4. Fill Online Form and upload the required documents

5. Pay Application Fees (depends on license type)

6. Track Application Status online

7. Inspection (if required) by FSSAI official

8. License Issuance (within 7–60 days)

Validity and Renewal

1. FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years

2. Renewal must be applied at least 30 days before expiry

3. Late renewal may attract penalties

FSSAI License Number

Every food package must carry a 14-digit FSSAI license number, which helps consumers verify the authenticity of the product through the FSSAI website.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

1. Running a food business without an FSSAI license: ₹5 lakh fine + imprisonment

2. Selling unsafe food: Up to ₹10 lakh + possible jail

3. Misleading advertisements or food labels: ₹10 lakh fine

Benefits of Having an FSSAI License

1. Increases consumer confidence

2. Expands business opportunities (retail chains, exports)

3. Ensures compliance with hygiene standards

4. Helps in business branding and marketing

5. Easy access to bank loans and government schemes

Conclusion

Whether you're a small home-based kitchen or a large-scale food processing company, an FSSAI license is not optional—it's essential. It ensures your food business is legal, safe, and trustworthy. Start your registration today and protect your customers—and your business.

For more info : https://www.psrcompliance.com/blog/introduction-your-trusted-fssai-licence-agent-and-consultant