Starting or running a food business in India comes with several legal responsibilities—and one of the most important is obtaining an FSSAI license. Whether you’re selling homemade snacks online or operating a nationwide food chain, the license ensures your business complies with India’s food safety laws.
The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is the governing body that regulates and monitors the food industry to ensure public health. If you deal with any part of the food supply chain—manufacturing, packaging, distribution, or sale—you are legally required to have an FSSAI registration or license.
Why You Need an FSSAI License
The FSSAI license isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it also builds trust with your customers and opens doors for scaling your business.
Benefits include:
Legal approval to operate a food business in India
Builds credibility among customers and suppliers
Ensures food safety compliance
Helps in business expansion (especially when dealing with large retailers or government contracts)
Avoids legal actions, fines, or closure by authorities
Who Needs an FSSAI License?
If your business deals with any stage of food production or handling, you must get registered. Here’s who needs it:
Food manufacturers and processors
Hotels, restaurants, cafés, caterers
Cloud kitchens and home-based food sellers
Wholesalers and retailers
Food transporters and storage units
Importers and exporters of food products
Even small vendors or home chefs earning under ₹12 lakhs/year need at least a basic registration.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
There are three categories of licenses, depending on your business size and annual turnover:
Basic FSSAI Registration
For businesses with turnover less than ₹12 lakhs/year
Cost: ₹100 per year
Common for home-based sellers or small food vendors
State FSSAI License
For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores
Cost: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (varies by state and activity)
Suitable for mid-sized restaurants, manufacturers, distributors
Central FSSAI License
For businesses with turnover above ₹20 crores
Also required for import/export of food
Cost: ₹7,500 per year
Mandatory for large manufacturers, international trade, or operations across states
How to Apply for an FSSAI License Online (Step-by-Step)
Applying for an FSSAI license is now easier thanks to the FOSCOS portal (Food Safety Compliance System). Here's how to do it:
Go to the FOSCOS Portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Register/Login with your business credentials
Choose the Correct License Type (Basic/State/Central)
Fill in the Application Form with business and personal details
Upload Required Documents (see list below)
Pay the Application Fee Online
Submit the Application and save the reference number for tracking
After verification and (in some cases) inspection, your license will be issued.
Documents Required for FSSAI License
The documents vary slightly depending on the license type, but generally include:
Passport-size photo of the applicant
Identity proof (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, PAN)
Proof of business premises (rental agreement, utility bill)
Food safety management plan
List of food products to be handled
Company registration documents (for private limited, LLP, etc.)
Machinery details (for manufacturers)
How to Check FSSAI License Status
To check the status of your FSSAI application or to verify a food vendor:
Go to the FOSCOS portal
Click on “License/Registration Number”
Enter the 14-digit FSSAI number
Click “Search” to view the license status, validity, and entity details
This feature is useful for customers and businesses to ensure the authenticity of any food operator.
Renewal of FSSAI License (2025)
An FSSAI license is typically valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on your choice during application. It's critical to renew before expiry to avoid penalties.
Steps to renew:
Login to FOSCOS
Go to “Renew License” section
Check & update any details or documents
Pay the renewal fee
Submit the application
📌 Tip: Apply for renewal 30 days before expiry to avoid late fees or re-application.
How to Download the FSSAI Certificate
Once your license is approved:
Login to FOSCOS
Go to “Issued Licenses”
Click on “Download Certificate”
Save and print the PDF copy for display
Make sure this is visibly displayed at your premises—it’s a legal requirement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the wrong license type
Ignoring license renewal timelines
Providing incomplete/inaccurate documents
Not displaying the license at your premises
Failing to check application status
Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smoother licensing journey and regulatory peace of mind.
🧠 FAQs
Q1. Is FSSAI license mandatory for home-based food sellers?
Yes. Even small-scale food businesses must register under FSSAI if they handle food.
Q2. How much does an FSSAI license cost in 2025?
It ranges from ₹100/year (basic) to ₹7,500/year (central license), depending on your business type.
Q3. Can I operate multiple outlets under one license?
You need a separate license for each location unless you qualify for a central license.
Q4. How long does it take to get the license?
Generally 7–30 days, depending on inspection needs and document clarity.
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