FSSAI Food License
Mandatory for any business involved in the manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, or sale of food products in India. Governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
Key benefits
- Legal Compliance: Avoid heavy penalties (up to ₹5 Lakhs) and business shutdown by food safety inspectors.
- Consumer Trust: Displaying the 14-digit FSSAI logo on your packaging is a recognized mark of safety and hygiene.
- E-commerce & Aggregators: Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, and Blinkit strictly require an FSSAI license to list your products/restaurant.
- Corporate Tie-ups: Essential for supplying food to corporate cafeterias, supermarkets, and institutional buyers.
Documents required
- Photo ID and Address proof of Proprietor/Directors.
- Proof of possession of premises (Rent Agreement, Utility Bill).
- List of food products manufactured/processed.
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan (for State/Central license).
- Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit (for manufacturing).
- List of equipment and machinery installed.
How it works
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1
Eligibility Check
Determining whether you need Basic Registration, State License, or Central License based on turnover and capacity.
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2
FoSCoS Filing
Filing Form A (Basic) or Form B (License) on the FoSCoS portal with precise food category codes.
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3
Query Resolution
Responding to queries from the Food Safety Officer (FSO) regarding layout or FSMS plans.
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4
Inspection
The FSO may physically inspect the premises (common for State/Central licenses) before approval.
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5
Issuance
Generation of the 14-digit FSSAI Registration/License.
Frequently asked questions
Which license do I need?
Turnover < ₹12L/year: Basic Registration. Turnover ₹12L - ₹20Cr: State License. Turnover > ₹20Cr, Importers, or 100% Export Oriented Units: Central License.
I have a cloud kitchen. Do I need FSSAI?
Yes. Cloud kitchens, home bakers, and food trucks are all strictly required to have at least a Basic Registration.
Can I use a residential address?
For Basic Registration (like home bakers), residential addresses are acceptable. For State/Central manufacturing licenses, commercial/industrial zoning is usually required.
What is the validity period?
You can apply for a validity of 1 to 5 years. Renewal must be filed 30 days before expiry to avoid massive late fees.