FSSAI Registration & Food License in India

Comply with India's food safety laws & boost customer trust with Lordvenus.

In India, every food business — from local street vendors to large-scale manufacturers — must legally complete FSSAI Registration online and secure a valid food license. This is essential to uphold food safety standards and maintain consumer confidence. Whether you’re producing, processing, packaging, distributing, or selling food items, FSSAI registration is mandatory under the law. This applies equally to home-based food startups, established restaurants, caterers, and even food importers. Failure to obtain the required FSSAI license can result in hefty fines, legal action, or even shutdown of business operations.

What is FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration is a fundamental legal requirement mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for all food business operators (FBOs). This registration keeps a check on the quality and safety of a wide range of food products — including processed foods, freshly prepared items, health supplements, novel foods, proprietary products, packaged foods, and ingredients. FSSAI functions as a statutory body under the Food Safety and Standards Act, with the goal of ensuring that food businesses across India comply with established safety standards. This helps prevent food adulteration, safeguards public health, and boosts consumer confidence. To run any food-related business legally, securing the right FSSAI license is mandatory.
Once your FSSAI registration is approved, you’ll receive an official food license that certifies your business complies with safety and hygiene norms for producing, storing, distributing, and selling food. This license serves as proof that your business meets the legal requirements for food safety in India, which is key to building customer trust. At Vakilsearch, we specialise in simplifying the FSSAI registration online process for businesses of all sizes. Our experienced professionals handle every step with care and efficiency, helping you achieve full compliance without hassle.

The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (India)
This act establishes the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and regulates food safety and standards in India. FSSAI registration is mandated under this act for businesses involved in activities like manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, and sale of food items.

As per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, it is compulsory for all food business operators in India to get FSSAI registration. Whether you’re a retailer, wholesaler, manufacturer, e-commerce seller, or engaged in distributing or transporting food products — having a valid FSSAI license is a must. Once you complete the registration, your business receives a unique food license number that confirms you meet the country’s food safety norms. With Lordvenus, you can file your FSSAI registration application online with ease and stay compliant without any stress.

Who Needs FSSAI Registration?

FSSAI registration or license is mandatory for any individual or entity involved in food business operations. This includes:

  • Petty retailers
  • Dairy units
  • Vegetable oil processing units
  • Pulses milling units
  • Medical stores selling food items or supplements
  • Merchant exporters of food
  • Temporary stall holders
  • Foot or movable carts
  • Fixed stalls
  • Food vending agencies
  • Large-scale food businesses
  • Food businesses operating from food premises or food business premises

Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration

To be eligible for food license registration in India under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), an individual or business must meet certain conditions based on the type and size of their food operations. Eligibility for each category — Basic Registration, State License, or Central License — is mainly determined by the business’s annual turnover and the scale of its activities.
Here’s a quick outline:

Criteria for FSSAI Basic Registration
  • FSSAI Basic registration is for small-scale or petty food business operators.
  • This category covers home-based food entrepreneurs, local tea stalls, and small retailers who operate on a limited scale.
  • The turnover criteria is up to ₹12 lakhs per annum.
Criteria for FSSAI State License
  • FSSAI State License is applicable to medium-sized food businesses.
  • This covers businesses typically including mid-level manufacturers, food processors, restaurants, and caterers operating within a single state.
  • The turnover criteria for state license is ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores per annum.
Criteria for FSSAI Central License
  • FSSAI Central License is mandatory for large food businesses and those engaged in import and export of food products.
  • It applies to food businesses operating pan-India or supplying food to government institutions such as railways, airports, and defence.
  • The turnover criteria for central license is above ₹20 crores per annum or interstate operations.

Checklist for FSSAI Registration

Before you apply for FSSAI registration or license, it’s essential to have all the required documents and details in place. This simple checklist helps food business operators verify that they meet the basic criteria, making the application process smoother and hassle-free.

FSSAI Registration Checklist:
  • Valid Documents: Keep ready government-approved ID proof, address proof of your business premises, and recent passport-size photos of the applicant and key staff.
  • Type of Food Business: Clearly identify whether your business involves manufacturing, retailing, catering, storage, distribution, or home-based food production. Turnover Bracket: Check your annual turnover to figure out if you need basic FSSAI registration, a state license, or a central license.
  • Business Address: Make sure you have a fixed, verifiable business address since this is crucial for license approval and site inspections.
  • FSSAI Compliance: Follow proper food safety and hygiene measures as per FSSAI norms to qualify and get quick approval.

Benefits of FSSAI Registration

Getting your FSSAI registration or license brings multiple advantages for food business owners. It ensures you comply with food safety laws and adds genuine value to your business's growth and reputation.

Key Benefits of FSSAI Registration:
  • Legal Approval: Gives your business official recognition, keeping you compliant with food safety regulations and safe from legal troubles.
  • Growth Opportunities: Makes it easier to expand into new markets, supply chains, or retail networks, as it shows you follow the required safety standards.
  • Use of FSSAI Logo: Lets you display the FSSAI mark on your packaging, which boosts your brand’s trustworthiness and appeal.
  • Builds Consumer Confidence: Customers feel safer buying your products when they know they meet strict safety and quality norms.
  • Better Funding Prospects: Banks, investors, and lenders are more willing to finance or partner with licensed businesses, giving you an edge in securing funds.

Types of FSSAI Licenses

In India, food businesses must obtain one of three types of FSSAI licenses or registrations depending on their scale, turnover, and operational reach. Understanding the differences between Basic Registration, State License, and Central License helps ensure you apply for the correct license type.

License TypeTurnover CriteriaScale of OprationsIssuing Authority
Basic RegistrationUp to Rs. 12 lakhs per annumSmall-scale food business, petty vendorsLocal/state food Safety Dept.
State License₹12 Lakhs to ₹20 Crores per annumMedium-sized manufacturers, restaurants,food processors operating within one stateState Food Safety Authority
Central LicenseAbove ₹20 Crores per annum or interstate operationLarge Manufactures, multi-state businesses,government suppliers Central Food Safety Authority

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration in India

To apply for FSSAI registration or license, you must submit certain essential documents that verify your identity, business legitimacy, and food safety compliance. The exact documents required may vary depending on the type of license you are applying for.

Commonly Required FSSAI Registration Documents:
  • Photo ID Proof: Any valid government ID like Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport or voter ID of the applicant.
  • Business Registration Proof: Certificate of incorporation, partnership deed, or any document that shows your business is legally established.
  • Address Proof: Valid proof for your business location (rental agreement, utility bill, or ownership papers).
  • Food Safety Plan: A plan describing how your business maintains food safety, usually needed for specific license categories.
    • Supporting documents like declaration forms
    • A list of food products or categories handled
    • Details of your food business activities
    • NOC from the municipal corporation
    • Any improvement notice if issued earlier
    • Annual return details for manufacturers

FSSAI Registration Process in India

Getting FSSAI registration in India involves a straightforward process that food businesses must follow to ensure legal compliance and food safety certification. Below are the key steps involved in the food licensing and registration process:

Steps for FSSAI License Registration:
  • Choose the Right License Type:
    Check if your business needs a Basic Registration, State License, or Central License based on your turnover, size, and operational area.
  • Prepare Required Documents:
    Collect all necessary documents like ID proof, business registration proof, address proof, and food safety plan (if needed).
  • Submit Application (Form A or Form B):
    Fill in and submit Form A for Basic Registration (small businesses), or Form B for State or Central License.
  • Pay the Government Fees:
    The fee depends on the license type and the period of validity (1-5 years). Make the payment online while submitting the application.
  • Verification and Inspection (if needed):
    For State and Central Licenses, an inspection of your premises may be done within 7–15 working days.
  • Receive FSSAI Registration Certificate:
    After approval, you’ll receive your FSSAI registration/license certificate digitally, usually within 7–30 working days, depending on the license type and inspection.

FSSAI Registration Fees

FSSAI registration fees vary based on the type of registration and the validity period you choose, which ranges from 1 to 5 years. The government fee is nominal for small businesses and increases with the scale and type of licence.

Licence TypeGovt. FeesValidity
Basic RegistrationRs. 100 per year1 to 5 years
State LicenceRs. 2,000 per year1 to 5 years
Central LicenceRs. 7,500 per year1 to 5 years
Note: If you use our professional service, the fee will be extra.

Validity and Renewal of FSSAI License

FSSAI licenses remain valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on what the applicant selects during registration. It’s crucial for food business operators to monitor their license’s expiry date to maintain continuous compliance.

When to Renew: You should submit your renewal application at least 30 days before your license expires to avoid legal issues or business interruptions.
Late Renewal Penalty: If you fail to renew on time, a late fee may be charged, and running your business without a valid license can attract fines or other penalties under food safety regulations.
Advantage of FSSAI License Renewal: Renewing your FSSAI license on time brings key advantages that help your food business stay compliant and maintain customer trust. Staying ahead of expiry dates ensures smooth functioning and keeps you free from legal or financial troubles.
Uninterrupted Operations: Keep your business running without any break by holding a valid license at all times.Avoid Penalties: Steer clear of fines or legal issues that can occur if you operate with an expired license.
Build Consumer Confidence: Demonstrate your dedication to food safety and quality by renewing your license promptly — reassuring your customers that you meet required standards.
Legal Penalties for Not Having FSSAI Registration: FSSAI Registration is mandatory for all food business operators in India under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006. As per Section 32, authorities are empowered to issue improvement notices to food business operators. Failure to comply with these notices or operate without a valid FSSAI license can lead to serious consequences, including license cancellation.

FSSAI Offences & Penalties Table

S. No.Licence TypeFine
1Food quality not up to the act's standardsRs. 2 lakh (Petty manufacturer - Rs. 25,000/-)
2Sub-standard foodRs. 5 Lakh
3Misbranded foodRs. 3 Lakh
4False description or deceptive advertisingRs. 10 Lakh
5Extraneous matter in foodRs. 1 Lakh
6Disregard for the food safety officer's instructionsRs. 2 Lakh
7Unhygienic processing or manufactureRs. 1 Lakh
Note: If you use our professional service, the fee will be extra.