FSSAI Registration and License Process Explained

Beyond legal compliance, filing ITR offers several advantages:

Obtaining an FSSAI license offers multiple advantages:

• Consumer Trust: Shows commitment to food safety, increasing customer confidence.
  

• Legal Compliance: Avoids penalties and legal issues by following regulations.
  

• Business Expansion: Facilitates scaling operations across states and international markets.
  

• Brand Credibility: Enhances brand image by adhering to recognised safety standards.
  

• Access to New Markets: Many retailers and e-commerce platforms require FSSAI certification.
  

Register your Business at just ₹1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business

Below is the eligibility criteria for FSSAI registration: 

• Annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs.
  

• Operates only within a single state.
  

• Includes small-scale manufacturers, traders, retailers, hawkers, and temporary stall owners.
  

Businesses requiring State or Central Licenses typically fulfil these conditions:

• Annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 Crores (State License).
  

• Annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores (Central License).
  

• Operations across multiple states or involved in import/export.
  

• Large-scale food processors and manufacturers.
  

Common documents needed include:

• Identity Proof (Aadhar, PAN Card)
  

• Address Proof of Business Premises (Rent Agreement/Utility Bill)
  

• Passport-sized Photographs of the Applicant
  

• Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
  

• Food Safety Management Plan or Statement of Food Products
  

• NOC from the local municipality or health department
  

• Proof of possession of premises (ownership or lease)
  

Step 1: Visit the Official FSSAI Website

Head over to the official Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal: https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in

Step 2: Create an Account

Click on “Sign Up” and fill in your details like name, mobile number, email ID, and state of operation. Once registered, you’ll receive login credentials via email or phone.

Step 3: Fill in the Application Form

After logging in, choose the appropriate license type based on your business size and turnover (Basic, State, or Central). Then, fill in the required details such as:

• Business name and address
  

• Type of food business (manufacturer, distributor, caterer, etc.)
  

• Contact information
  

• Business turnover and food handling capacity
  

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of all the necessary documents.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Once the form is complete and documents are uploaded, proceed to pay the applicable fee online. The amount depends on the license type and duration selected (1–5 years).

Step 6: Submit the Application

Double-check all details before clicking “Submit”. Once submitted, you’ll receive an application reference number which you can use to track your status.

Step 7: Track Your Application Status

Use the “Track Application” feature on the dashboard to monitor progress. You’ll receive notifications if additional info or documents are required.

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the local food safety officer. They may conduct a physical inspection (for licenses) or approve the application directly (for Basic Registrations). Upon approval, you’ll receive your FSSAI certificate online.

How to Check Status:

1. Visit the FSSAI portal.
   

2. Log in using registered credentials.
   

3. Navigate to the “Application Status” section.
   

4. Enter your Application/Registration number.
   

5. View the current status (Pending, Approved, Rejected).
   

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) takes food safety very seriously — and rightly so. Non-compliance can lead to hefty penalties, legal action, or even imprisonment, depending on the nature and severity of the offense. 

Here’s a breakdown of common offences under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and their corresponding penalties:

Renew your license at least 30 days before it expires. The process is similar to applying for a fresh — just log in, fill out renewal forms, upload updated documents, and pay the fees. Missing renewal deadlines can lead to fines or even suspension of your license.

Cloud kitchens, operating without a physical dine-in space, are also required to obtain FSSAI licenses. Typically, they fall under:

• Basic Registration: If turnover and scale are small.
  State License: For larger cloud kitchens with higher turnover.
  

The application process is the same, focusing on food safety management specific to cloud kitchens.

FSSAI registration and licensing are essential for any food business in India. They help keep your customers safe, build your brand, and keep you on the right side of the law.

So, if you're running any kind of food business, be it a small catering outfit, a packaged snack brand, or an export-oriented manufacturing unit, FSSAI must be part of your growth strategy. It’s a small step toward compliance, ensuring that you’re meeting the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.