FOOD LAW · FOOD SAFETY & STANDARDS AUTHORITY OF INDIA

FSSAI registration and licensing for food businesses

Every food business in India — from a home kitchen to a large manufacturer — needs either basic FSSAI registration or a state/central licence, depending on scale. We determine which category applies and file accordingly.

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OVERVIEW

FSSAI Registration

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India regulates every business that manufactures, processes, packages, stores, distributes, sells or imports food, under a three-tier system based on turnover and scale of operation.

Small businesses (turnover under ₹12 lakh) need only basic FSSAI registration. Mid-sized businesses need a state licence, and large manufacturers, importers and businesses operating across multiple states need a central licence — each with different documentation and fee structures.

We assess your turnover, business activity and operating footprint to determine the correct category first, since applying under the wrong tier is one of the most common reasons applications get sent back for correction.

PROCESS

What to expect, step by step

Category determination

We assess turnover and business activity to confirm whether basic registration, a state licence or a central licence applies.

Document preparation

Photo ID, address proof, food safety management plan and, where relevant, NOCs from the local municipal authority are compiled.

Online filing

Application filed on the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal with supporting documents.

Inspection (if applicable)

For licences (not basic registration), a food safety officer may inspect the premises before approval.

Certificate issuance

The registration certificate or licence is issued, valid for 1–5 years depending on the term you apply for.

Documents & information we'll need

Photo ID and address proof of the proprietor/partners/directors.
Proof of premises (rent agreement or ownership document) and a layout plan for licence applications.
List of food products to be manufactured, processed or sold.
Water testing report, for manufacturing units.
Partnership deed / incorporation certificate, where the applicant is not an individual.

FAQ

FSSAI Registration — common questions

Do I need FSSAI registration for a home-based food business?+

Yes — even small, home-based food businesses need basic FSSAI registration if annual turnover is under ₹12 lakh; a state or central licence applies above that threshold.

What's the difference between FSSAI registration and an FSSAI licence?+

Registration is for very small businesses (turnover under ₹12 lakh); a state or central licence is required above that, with more detailed documentation and, for licences, a premises inspection.

How long is an FSSAI licence valid?+

You can apply for a licence valid for 1 to 5 years — the fee scales with the term you choose.

What happens if I operate without FSSAI registration?+

Operating a food business without the required registration or licence is an offence under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, carrying penalties that can include fines and, in serious cases, imprisonment.

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