What is FSSAI Registration?

FSSAI registration is a legal requirement for anyone running a food business in India. It ensures that the food you make, sell, or serve is safe to eat and meets quality standards set by the government.

Introduced under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, this registration proves your business follows the rules for food safety. Whether you’re making, storing, distributing, or selling food, having an FSSAI license means you’re allowed to do it legally.

Types of FSSAI Registration in India

To run a food business in India, you must get the right FSSAI registration based on your business size and yearly turnover:

✅ 1. Basic FSSAI Registration

For small food businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs per year.
Your license number starts with ‘1’.
Example: Home kitchens, small food stalls, or homemade food sellers.

✅ 2. State FSSAI License

For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
Your license number starts with ‘2’.
Example: Restaurants, medium-sized food stores, or local manufacturers.

✅ 3. Central FSSAI License

For large-scale businesses making over ₹20 crores annually or operating in multiple states.
License number starts with ‘1’.
Example: Food chains, exporters, importers, or large manufacturers.

✅ 4. FoSCoS FSSAI Registration

FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) is the official online portal to apply, renew, and manage all FSSAI registrations and licenses.
Create your account on FoSCoS to handle everything digitally and easily.

Main Objectives of FSSAI Registration

• Ensure food safety and maintain high-quality standards

• Protect public health by reducing food adulteration

• Set clear rules and guidelines for all food businesses

• Build customer trust through proper certification

• Promote the organized growth of the food sector

• Help Indian businesses meet global food safety norms for exports

Laws Governing FSSAI Registration in India

FSSAI registration is managed under a strong legal system that includes:

• Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006

• Food Safety and Standards Rules, 2011

• Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011 (and updates)

• Additional orders and guidelines by the FSSAI Authority

Who Handles FSSAI Registration?

These authorities manage and enforce FSSAI rules across India:

• FSSAI (Central Authority)

• State Food Safety Authorities

• Food Safety Officers and Designated Officers

• State & Central Food Laboratories

• Food Safety Appellate Tribunal (for resolving disputes)

Key Features of FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration has a structured system and clear rules. Here’s what you should know:

✅ 1. License Levels (Based on Business Size)

FSSAI uses a three-tier system depending on the size and nature of your food business:

• Basic Registration – For small businesses (14-digit number)

• State License – For medium businesses (14-digit number)

• Central License – For large businesses (14-digit number)

✅ 2. Validity of the License

Each license is valid for a specific period:

• Basic Registration – Valid for 5 years

• State License – Valid for 1 to 5 years (based on the fee paid)

• Central License – Valid for 1 to 5 years (based on the fee paid)

✅ 3. Where the License is Valid (Jurisdiction)

• Basic Registration – Valid only within the registered district

• State License – Valid within the entire state

• Central License – Valid across all of India

✅ 4. Displaying the FSSAI License Number

Every food business must clearly show the FSSAI license number:

• At the business location

• On food packaging and labels

• In ads and communication materials

• On delivery/transport vehicles (if used for food)

✅ Benefits of FSSAI Registration in India

Get your food business on the right track with these major advantages of having an FSSAI license:

1. Legal Approval & Compliance

• Run Legally: Operate your food business without fear of legal issues or penalties.

• Official Proof: Your FSSAI registration shows your business is legally allowed to deal with food.

2. Gain Customer Trust

• Trusted by Consumers: Customers are more likely to buy from you knowing your food is approved by the government.

• Build Loyalty: A trustworthy brand leads to repeat buyers and positive reviews.

3. Ensure Quality & Safety

• Meet Hygiene Standards: Follow FSSAI’s food safety rules to keep your products clean and safe.

• Fewer Complaints: Good quality means fewer customer complaints and product recalls.

4. Boost Market Reputation

• Look Professional: FSSAI registration adds credibility and makes your brand look reliable.

• More Business Deals: Retailers, suppliers, and partners prefer working with registered businesses.

5. Protect Yourself Legally

• Proof of Responsibility: Your FSSAI license shows you’ve taken proper steps to follow food safety laws.

• Legal Support: If there’s ever a problem, your registration helps protect your business during legal issues.

6. Smooth Business Operations

• Better Food Handling: Having an FSSAI license encourages you to improve your processes and systems.

• Easier Inspections: Registered businesses face fewer problems during audits and checks.

✅ Who is Eligible for FSSAI Registration in India?

To get an FSSAI license, your business must meet the following basic conditions:

1. You Must Be Involved in a Food-Related Business

This includes:

• Making or preparing food

• Processing or packaging food

• Storing, transporting, or distributing food

• Selling food at retail or wholesale level

2. Suitable Business Setup

You should have proper facilities that match the size and type of your operations — whether it’s a home kitchen, restaurant, warehouse, or factory.

3. Follow Basic Hygiene Rules (Schedule 4 Guidelines)

You must maintain clean surroundings, follow safe food handling practices, and ensure good sanitary conditions in your workplace.

4. Use a Food Safety Management System (FSMS)

Depending on your license type, your business must follow a food safety plan to monitor and control hazards during food production.

5. Appoint Trained Food Safety Supervisors (if applicable)

For certain business types, you need to appoint qualified food safety supervisors who are trained and certified under FSSAI rules.

🛡️ FSSAI Registration for Food Business Operators (FBOs)

Make sure your food business follows Indian food safety laws by choosing the right type of FSSAI registration for your specific business.

🌶️ FSSAI for Spice Manufacturers

• Basic Registration: For yearly turnover up to ₹12 lakhs

• State License: For ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores

• Central License: For above ₹20 crores
  ✅ Label must include batch number, ingredients, and manufacturing date.

🏠 FSSAI for Homemade Food Products

• Basic Registration for under ₹12 lakhs turnover
  ✅ Maintain clean kitchen conditions
  ✅ Label ingredients and shelf life
  ✅ Mark clearly as “Homemade”
  ✅ Follow safe cooking and packing rules

📦 FSSAI for Repackers

• License based on turnover
  ✅ Mention “Repacked by” on labels
  ✅ Keep batch info from the original packaging
  ✅ Maintain hygiene and allow inspections
  ✅ Track product source details

🛒 FSSAI for Food Traders

• Basic for small businesses; State/Central License for large operations
  ✅ Store food properly (with temperature control if needed)
  ✅ Keep source and inventory records
  ✅ Ensure traceability of products

🍰 FSSAI for Home Bakers

• Basic Registration for sales under ₹12 lakhs
  ✅ Pass kitchen hygiene audits
  ✅ Label all ingredients and allergens
  ✅ Use proper packaging
  ✅ Attend hygiene training regularly

🌍 FSSAI for Merchant Exporters

• Central License is mandatory (regardless of turnover)
  ✅ Follow FSSAI + international export standards
  ✅ Provide lab test certificates
  ✅ Ensure traceability
  ✅ Pass export inspections

🚰 FSSAI for Packaged Drinking Water Units

• Central License required
  ✅ Obtain BIS Certification (IS 14543)
  ✅ Test water regularly in labs
  ✅ Get approval for the water source
  ✅ Follow strict quality checks

🍃 FSSAI for Pan Masala Manufacturers

• State/Central License based on turnover
  ✅ Disclose full ingredient list
  ✅ Mention health warnings
  ✅ Get tobacco-free certificate (if needed)
  ✅ Submit product samples for testing

🤝 FSSAI for Partnership Firms

✅ Include all partners in the application
✅ Submit partnership deed
✅ Share joint liability declaration
✅ Provide ID/address proof
✅ Verify business premises

🍽️ FSSAI for Restaurants

• License depends on seating capacity and turnover
  ✅ Health certificates for staff
  ✅ Pest control certification
  ✅ Food handler training records
  ✅ Waste management systems
  ✅ Hygiene inspections

🧁 FSSAI for Small Food Businesses

• Basic Registration (Form A) for turnover under ₹12 lakhs
  ✅ Self-certification available
  ✅ Must complete basic food safety & hygiene training

📄 Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

Depending on your business size and type, different documents are needed for FSSAI registration. Below is a clear breakdown:

✅ Common Documents for All Types

• Filled Application Form (Form A, B, or C based on license type)

• Photo ID proof of the business owner (Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN)

• Business address proof (electricity bill, rental agreement, etc.)

• Business registration certificate (if applicable)

• Passport-sized photograph of the applicant

• List of food products to be handled (manufactured/traded)

• Signed declaration form

🟢 For Basic FSSAI Registration (Small Businesses)

• Name and address proof of the business owner

• Valid identity proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID/PAN)

• Passport-sized photo

• Signed self-declaration form about food safety compliance

🔵 For State FSSAI License (Medium Businesses)

• Filled Form B with business and food category details

• Business registration certificate (Partnership deed/LLP/Company docs)

• Unit layout/blueprint plan

• List of machinery & equipment used

• Water test report (if water is used in processing)

• Food safety management plan

• List of directors/partners with their address & ID proofs

• NOC from local municipality or authority (if required)

🔴 For Central FSSAI License (Large or National Businesses)

• Filled Form C with full business details

• Import Export Code (IEC) – for importers/exporters

• Certificate of Analysis (for imported food products)

• Sample labels of imported products

• Valid food safety certification (e.g., HACCP or ISO 22000)

• Plant layout and flow chart of the manufacturing process

• Water potability certificate from a certified lab

• Medical fitness certificates for all food handlers

• List of suppliers/distributors

• Product recall plan and traceability documentation

📝 How to Register for FSSAI Online – Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these 6 simple steps to get your FSSAI license online and run your food business legally in India:

✅ Step 1: Choose the Right License Type

Before applying, check which FSSAI license suits your business:

• Turnover under ₹12 lakhs? → Basic Registration

• ₹12 lakhs – ₹20 crores? → State License

• Above ₹20 crores or import/export? → Central License

Also consider:

• Are you a manufacturer, trader, or distributor?

• Are you working in one state or multiple states?

📁 Step 2: Collect All Required Documents

Prepare documents based on your license type:

• Owner’s ID and address proof

• Business registration certificate (if applicable)

• Food safety plan or hygiene certificates

• Water test reports (if needed)

• Product list and label samples (for some categories)

🌐 Step 3: Apply Online on the FoSCoS Portal

• Visit the official FoSCoS Portal

• Create your account

• Fill out the form (Form A, B, or C) based on your category

• Upload all required documents

• Double-check everything before submitting

💳 Step 4: Pay the Registration Fees Online

• Pay using debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking

• Save the payment receipt

• Make sure the payment status is updated in your application

🔍 Step 5: Application Review & Inspection

• Your application will be verified by FSSAI officers

• For some businesses, an inspection of your premises may be done

• If corrections are requested, respond quickly and clearly

• Make sure you follow basic food safety rules during this time

📜 Step 6: Get Your FSSAI Certificate

• Once approved, your FSSAI certificate will be sent to your email and can be downloaded from the portal

• Print and display the license at your business location

• Use your FSSAI number on food labels, packaging, and advertisements

• Remember the validity period and renew on time

💬 Need Help?

You can also get assistance from consultants like Taza financial Consultancy Private Limited for smooth and fast FSSAI registration. First consultation is free!

Fees and Penalties of FSSAI Registration

Understanding the financial aspects helps you budget appropriately for compliance.

FSSAI Registration Fees

Here’s what you’ll pay for FSSAI registration, depending on your food business type.

Basic Registration Fee:

Rs. 100 for small food businesses (valid for 5 years)

State License Fees:

Small businesses: Rs. 2,000 per year

Medium businesses: Rs. 3,000 per year

Large businesses: Rs. 5,000 per year

Central License Fees:

Manufacturer: Rs. 7,500 per year

Large manufacturer: Rs. 15,000 per year

Importer: Rs. 10,000 per year

Large food retailer: Rs. 7,500 per year

Additional Costs:

Application processing fees

Inspection fees (if applicable)

Testing and certification costs

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating without a valid FSSAI registration can result in:

Monetary penalties up to Rs. 5 lakhs

Imprisonment up to 6 months

Business closure orders

Product seizure and destruction

Criminal prosecution for serious violations

🔁 FSSAI Registration Renewal – A Must for Ongoing Compliance

Keeping your FSSAI registration up-to-date is essential to continue operating your food business legally. Here’s everything you need to know:

📅 Renewal Timeline

• Apply at least 60 days before your license/registration expires.

• If you apply within 30 days after expiry, you’ll be charged a late fee.

• If more than 30 days pass, you must apply as a fresh applicant.

🔧 Step-by-Step Renewal Process

1. Log in to the official FoSCoS portal using your credentials.

2. Navigate to the Renewal Section.

3. Review and update your business details carefully.

4. Upload any new or updated documents.

5. Pay the renewal fee online.

6. Submit the application for processing.

📄 Required Documents for Renewal

• Copy of your existing FSSAI certificate

• A self-declaration stating continued compliance

• Annual returns for the last year (if applicable)

• Any updated business documents

• Proof of renewal fee payment

🔔 What to Do After Renewal

• Display your new certificate prominently at your business premises

• Inform your partners/vendors about your updated license number

• Update your packaging with the new validity date (if applicable)

❌ Cancellation of FSSAI Registration – When Can It Happen?

Your FSSAI registration can be cancelled or revoked under certain conditions. Here are the main reasons:

⚠️ 1. Not Following Food Safety Rules

If your business fails to maintain required hygiene or violates food safety regulations, your license can be cancelled.

🚫 2. Giving False Information

If you provide wrong or fake details during registration or inspection, your FSSAI registration may be cancelled immediately.

🔁 3. Repeated Offenses

If your business breaks the rules multiple times, even after getting warnings or paying fines, your license can be taken away.

🔄 4. Not Reporting Major Changes

If your business shuts down or changes location, owner, or operations and you don’t inform FSSAI, your registration becomes invalid.

⚖️ 5. Court Action

In serious cases involving public health or legal violations, the court can order cancellation of your FSSAI registration.

🧾 FSSAI Registration Certificate – Your License to Operate Legally

The FSSAI Registration Certificate is a mandatory legal document that allows your food business to operate in India. Issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), it confirms that your business complies with all food safety regulations.

✅ Why is it Important?

• 📜 Legal Requirement – Every food business must have it to avoid penalties.

• 🛡️ Ensures Food Safety Compliance – Shows that your operations follow hygiene and safety standards.

• 🤝 Builds Customer Trust – Boosts your brand’s credibility in the market.

🚀 Get It Hassle-Free with Taza financial Consultancy Private Limited

With Taza financial Consultancy Private Limited’s expert guidance, you can obtain your FSSAI certificate quickly and without stress. Our team ensures your application is accurate and complete for smooth processing.