1. What is FSSAI Registration and License?

FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It sets scientific standards for food products and regulates manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale and import to keep food safe for consumers.

Every food business operator (FBO) must obtain either FSSAI Registration (basic) or an FSSAI License (state/central) depending on the scale and nature of operations.

• FSSAI Registration (Basic) – Small businesses with annual turnover below ₹12 lakhs.
• FSSAI State License – Businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
• FSSAI Central License – Businesses with turnover above ₹20 crores or those involved in import/export or operating across states.

2. Importance of FSSAI Registration

Key reasons to obtain FSSAI registration or license:

1. Legal compliance — Mandatory by law for food businesses.
2. Consumer trust — Shows product safety and reliability.
3. Business growth — Improves brand image and investor confidence.
4. Avoid penalties — Heavy fines and possible imprisonment for non-compliance.
5. Quality assurance — Minimizes contamination and health risks.
6. Market access — Essential for exports and platform listings.

3. Who Needs FSSAI Registration or License?

All entities in the food supply chain, including but not limited to:

• Food manufacturers, re-packers and re-labelers
• Retailers, wholesalers, distributors and transporters
• Restaurants, cafés, cloud kitchens and caterers
• Food importers/exporters and e-commerce food sellers
• Home-based food businesses (e.g. pickles, bakery items, snacks)

4. Types of FSSAI Registration / Licenses

Summary of categories:

a) FSSAI Basic Registration

For small businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakhs (street vendors, small retailers, home cooks).

b) FSSAI State License

For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores (mid-sized manufacturers, restaurants).

c) FSSAI Central License

For large businesses with turnover above ₹20 crores, importers/exporters, multi-state operators, and suppliers to government institutions.

5. Documents Required

Typical document checklist (may vary with category):

• Passport-size photo of applicant
• Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID)
• Address proof (utility bills, rent agreement, ownership documents)
• Business registration documents (Partnership Deed, Certificate of Incorporation, etc.)
• Food safety management plan
• List of food products handled
• NOC from local municipal body (if applicable)
• Import/Export Code (for importers/exporters)
• Form-B (for license) duly signed

6. Process of FSSAI Registration / License

1. Determine the category — Basic, State or Central.
2. Fill the application — Form-A for registration or Form-B for license on FoSCoS portal.
3. Upload documents required for the selected category.
4. Fee payment — Pay applicable government fees online.
5. Verification — Authorities may inspect premises.
6. Approval — Certificate issued upon verification; validity 1–5 years.

FoSCoS portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in — use this portal to apply online and track status.

7. Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Penalty up to ₹5 lakhs
• Imprisonment up to 6 months in serious cases
• Suspension or cancellation of license
• Fines for selling unsafe or misbranded food

8. Benefits of FSSAI License

• Protection against harassment and legal hurdles
• Improved brand recognition and trust
• Facilitates business expansion and partnerships
• Opens export opportunities
• Ability to market products with the FSSAI logo
• Assures consumers of safety and quality

9. How RegistrationMART Helps

RegistrationMART simplifies the FSSAI process with:

• Guidance on proper license category
• End-to-end filing support on FoSCoS
• Document preparation and submission
• Handling objections & inspections
• Follow-up until license issuance

10. FAQs

Q1. Is FSSAI registration mandatory for home-based food businesses?

Yes. Even small-scale home food entrepreneurs must register under FSSAI to operate legally.

Q2. How long does it take to get an FSSAI license?

Typically 7–30 working days depending on license type and verification process.

Q3. Can I operate in multiple states with one license?

No — you need a Central License to operate across multiple states.

Q4. What is the validity of the FSSAI license?

Validity ranges from 1 to 5 years depending on the chosen renewal period.