Apply FSSAI Registration Online
Our FSSAI experts will suggest the appropriate license for your business: Basic License, State License or Intermediate License. Extend or update your license within 48 hours FSSAI has recorded over 2,00,000 registrations since 2011
What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and is a food safety regulator in India. The primary function of FSSAI is to regulate the production, sale and supply of food products and to set certain standards to ensure food safety throughout India. It is a regulatory body under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Food business operators must obtain a license from FSSAI to operate their operations without any influence.
Types of FSSAI License
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues three types of licenses based on the size and type of food business. Here’s a breakdown:
Basic FSSAI Registration:
- For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
- Suitable for small manufacturers, storage units, transporters, and retailers.
State FSSAI License:
- For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Applicable to food manufacturers, distributors, and importers.
Central FSSAI License:
- For large businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.
- Required for food importers, large manufacturers, and large-scale food service operations.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
Obtaining FSSAI registration offers several benefits for food businesses:
Legal Compliance: Ensures adherence to food safety laws and regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues.
Consumer Trust: Builds consumer confidence as FSSAI registration signals commitment to quality and safety standards.
Market Access: Facilitates entry into various markets, including international, where FSSAI certification is often mandatory.
Business Opportunities: Enhances credibility, making it easier to engage with suppliers, distributors, and retailers.
Improved Quality Control: Encourages the implementation of food safety management systems, leading to better quality products.
Brand Reputation: Strengthens brand image by demonstrating accountability and responsibility in food safety.
Reduced Risks: Helps identify and mitigate potential food safety hazards, thereby protecting public health.
Eligibility for Subsidies: Access to government schemes and subsidies aimed at promoting food safety and quality.
Training and Resources: Provides access to resources, training programs, and guidelines for better food safety practices.
Legal Protection: Offers a framework for addressing disputes related to food safety, providing legal backing in case of claims.
Checklist for FSSAI Registration
1. Determine License Type
- Basic Registration (annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs)
- State License (annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores)
- Central License (annual turnover above ₹20 crores)
2. Gather Required Documents
- Identity Proof: Aadhar card, PAN card, or passport of the business owner.
- Address Proof: Utility bill, rent agreement, or property papers.
- Business Registration Documents: Partnership deed, company registration certificate, etc.
- Food Safety Management Plan: SOPs for food handling and safety.
- NOC: No Objection Certificate from local authorities (if applicable).
- List of Food Products: Details of food items you plan to handle.
3. Prepare Application Details
- Business name and address
- Type of business (manufacturer, distributor, retailer, etc.)
- Names of directors/partners
- Contact information (phone number, email)
4. Registration Fee
- Be prepared to pay the applicable fee based on the type of license.
5. Online Registration Process
- Visit the official FSSAI website: fssai.gov.in.
- Create an account on the FSSAI portal.
- Fill out the application form for the appropriate license type.
- Upload all required documents.
- Pay the registration fee online.
6. Application Tracking
- Note the application reference number to track the status of your application.
7. Follow Up
- Be prepared for any follow-up queries from FSSAI officials or for site inspections if applicable.
8. Maintain Records
- Keep a copy of your application and all submitted documents for future reference.
How to Get a Food License in India
Getting a food license in India involves several steps, depending on the type of license required (Basic Registration, State License, or Central License). Here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain a food license through the FSSAI:
1. Determine the Type of License
- Basic Registration: For small businesses with an annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs.
- State License: For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Central License: For large businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores.
2. Gather Required Documents
- Identity Proof: PAN card, Aadhar card, or passport of the business owner.
- Address Proof: Utility bill, lease agreement, or property documents.
- Business Registration Documents: Partnership deed, company registration certificate, etc.
- Food Safety Management Plan: Procedures for food safety and handling.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): From local authorities, if required.
- List of Food Products: Details of the food items you intend to handle.
3. Visit the FSSAI Website
- Go to the official FSSAI website: fssai.gov.in.
4. Create an Account
- Register on the FSSAI portal using your email address and mobile number.
5. Fill Out the Application Form
- Choose the appropriate license type and complete the online application form with accurate details.
6. Upload Required Documents
- Attach the necessary documents as specified in the application guidelines.
7. Pay the Registration Fee
- Pay the applicable fee online through the available payment options.
8. Submit the Application
- Review your application for accuracy and submit it.
9. Track Your Application
- Use the application reference number to monitor the status of your application on the FSSAI portal.
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration
Depending on the transfer limit and food source, food business owners need to apply to FSSAI for registration. The complete list of eligibility criteria is as follows:
Any FBO with an annual turnover of up to Rs 12 lakh
Small business owners offering food products<br< b=””></br<> >Individuals independently manufacturing or selling food
Temporary shops An employee selling food
A person providing food at a social or religious event, excluding dine-in attendants
A family or small business engaged in the food business.
Difference Between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License
FSSAI Registration
- Who Needs It: Primarily for small food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
- Type: It’s a simpler form of approval, known as Basic Registration.
- Scope: Covers smaller entities like small manufacturers, retailers, and storage units.
- Process: Generally quicker and requires less documentation.
- Validity: Usually valid for one to five years, depending on the type of registration.
- Fee: Minimal registration fee compared to a license.
FSSAI License
- Who Needs It: Required for medium to large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹12 lakhs.
- State License: For businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Central License: For larger entities with a turnover above ₹20 crores or for those involved in import/export.
- Scope: More comprehensive, covering a wider range of operations including large manufacturers and food service businesses.
- Process: Involves a more detailed application process and may require inspections.
- Validity: Generally valid for one to five years, subject to renewal.
- Fee: Higher fees depending on the type and scale of business.
FAQs on FSSAI Registration/License
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a regulatory body responsible for setting standards for food safety, ensuring that food is safe for consumption, and overseeing the food industry in India.
All food businesses, including manufacturers, processors, distributors, retailers, and food service providers, must register or obtain a license from FSSAI based on their scale of operations.
- Registration: For small businesses with an annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs.
- License: Required for medium to large businesses with a turnover above ₹12 lakhs (State License) or above ₹20 crores (Central License).
The processing time can vary but typically takes between 15 to 30 days, depending on the type of application and completeness of documents.
Common documents include identity proof, address proof, business registration documents, food safety management plans, and a list of food products handled.
Yes, there are fees associated with both registration and licensing, which vary based on the type and scale of the business.
No, operating without proper registration or a license is illegal and can lead to penalties, including fines and closure of the business.
You can renew your FSSAI license or registration online through the FSSAI portal, typically 30 days before the expiry date. The renewal process may require similar documentation as the original application.
Non-compliance can result in fines, suspension of operations, or legal action. It’s crucial to adhere to food safety regulations to avoid these consequences.
Yes, you can complete the application process online through the official FSSAI website.
Yes, e-commerce food businesses are also required to obtain an FSSAI license, just like traditional food businesses.
If your application is rejected, you can review the reasons for rejection, rectify the issues, and reapply. You may also contact FSSAI for clarification and guidance.
These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of FSSAI registration and licensing, helping food businesses understand the requirements and processes involved.