FSSAI Registration Online: Apply for a Food License in India

The Right Plan for Your Food Business

FilingIndia’s food license experts guide you through the entire process until you successfully obtain your food license, backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.

Starter Plan

Ideal for basic food license
applicants
999
₹799
offer ₹200 off
  • 15-minute consultation with food license experts
  • Assistance in selecting the right FSSAI license type
  • Food license application filed within 24 hours
  • 99% faster application approval
  • FSSAI Certificate*
  •  
  •  
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Standard Plan

Ideal for starting a food business with FSSAI license and GST compliance
3399
₹2,499
offer 25% off
  • 15-minute consultation with food license experts
  • Assistance in selecting the right FSSAI license type
  • Food license application filed within 24 hours
  • 99% faster application approval
  • FSSAI Certificate*
  • GST Registration
  • GST filing for one financial year (up to 300 transactions)
  •  

Elite Plan

Comprehensive package for running a food business with brand protection
6599
₹4,499
offer 35% off
  • 15-minute consultation with food license experts
  • Assistance in selecting the right FSSAI license type
  • Food license application filed within 24 hours
  • 99% faster application approval
  • FSSAI Certificate*
  • GST Registration
  • GST filing for one financial year (up to 300 transactions)
  • Trademark Registration
PRO

Overview

Every food business in India—whether a small vendor or a large manufacturer—is legally required to complete FSSAI registration online and obtain a valid food license to ensure food safety and build consumer trust. FSSAI registration is mandatory for all individuals and businesses involved in the production, processing, packaging, distribution, or sale of food. From home-based food entrepreneurs to established restaurants and food importers, every food business operator must comply with FSSAI regulations. Failure to comply can result in heavy penalties, legal action, or even closure of the business.

What is FSSAI Registration?

FSSAI registration is a mandatory licensing requirement issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for all food business operators (FBOs). It ensures that food products—such as manufactured goods, freshly prepared food, health supplements, novel foods, proprietary foods, packaged food items, and food ingredients—meet prescribed quality and safety standards.

FSSAI is a statutory regulatory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, responsible for regulating and supervising food safety across India. Its primary objective is to ensure that food businesses comply with hygiene and safety regulations, reduce the risk of food adulteration, and safeguard public health. Every food business operator must obtain the appropriate FSSAI registration or license to operate legally in India.

Upon successful FSSAI registration, FBOs are issued an FSSAI license (commonly known as a food license). This license certifies that the business follows safe and hygienic practices in food production, storage, handling, and distribution. It also helps build consumer trust and serves as legal authorization to run a food business in India. Obtaining food business registration is mandatory for all food-related enterprises.

FilingIndia specializes in handling the FSSAI registration online process with accuracy and efficiency, ensuring complete legal compliance for food businesses. Our expert team manages every step of the registration process, making it fast, reliable, and hassle-free.

The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (India)

The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, establishes the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and governs food safety and quality standards across the country. Under this Act, FSSAI registration is mandatory for businesses involved in the manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of food products.

As per the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, every food business operator in India is required to obtain FSSAI registration or a license. A valid FSSAI license is compulsory for all food-related businesses, and a unique food license number is issued upon successful registration. This requirement applies to all types of food businesses, including retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, e-commerce sellers, distributors, and transporters of food products.

Food business owners can conveniently apply for FSSAI registration online through FilingIndia, which offers expert assistance to ensure a smooth, compliant, and hassle-free registration process.

Who Needs FSSAI Registration?

FSSAI registration or an FSSAI license is mandatory for any individual or entity involved in food business operations. This requirement applies to the following types of food business operators:

  • Petty retailers

  • Dairy units

  • Vegetable oil processing units

  • Pulses milling units

  • Medical stores selling food items or dietary supplements

  • Merchant exporters of food products

  • Temporary stall holders

  • Food vendors operating from movable carts or foot carts

  • Fixed food stalls

  • Food vending agencies

  • Large-scale food businesses

  • Food businesses operating from food premises or designated food business establishments

Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration

To be eligible for FSSAI registration in India under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), an individual or entity must meet specific criteria based on the nature, scale, and turnover of the food business. FSSAI registration is categorized into Basic Registration, State License, and Central License, primarily determined by the business’s annual turnover and operational reach. Below is a detailed overview:

Criteria for FSSAI Basic Registration

FSSAI Basic Registration is applicable to small-scale or petty food business operators.
This category includes home-based food entrepreneurs, small vendors, local tea stalls, and small retailers operating on a limited scale.

  • Annual turnover: Up to ₹12 lakhs

Criteria for FSSAI State License

The FSSAI State License is suitable for medium-sized food businesses.
It typically applies to mid-level manufacturers, food processors, restaurants, and caterers operating within a single state.

  • Annual turnover: ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores

Criteria for FSSAI Central License

The FSSAI Central License is mandatory for large food businesses and those involved in the import or export of food products.
It also applies to businesses operating across multiple states or supplying food to government institutions such as railways, airports, and defense establishments.

  • Annual turnover: More than ₹20 crores, or

  • Businesses engaged in interstate operations or import/export activities

Checklist for FSSAI Registration

Before applying for FSSAI registration or a food license, it is essential to have all the necessary information and documents ready. The following checklist helps food business operators ensure they meet the basic requirements for a smooth and hassle-free application process.

FSSAI Registration Checklist

Before applying for FSSAI registration or a food license, ensure you have the following in place:

  1. Valid Documents

    • Government-issued identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.)

    • Address proof of the business

    • Passport-sized photographs of the applicant and key personnel

  2. Food Business Type

    • Clearly identify the nature of your food business: manufacturing, retail, catering, storage, distribution, or home-based operation

  3. Turnover Bracket

    • Know your annual turnover to determine the appropriate license type: Basic Registration, State License, or Central License

  4. Business Address

    • Ensure you have a fixed and verifiable business location, as it is essential for license issuance and inspections

  5. FSSAI Compliance Practices

    • Implement food safety and hygiene measures as per FSSAI guidelines to ensure eligibility and smooth approval

Benefits of FSSAI Registration

Obtaining FSSAI registration or an FSSAI license offers several important advantages to food business operators. It not only ensures compliance with food safety regulations but also helps establish credibility and supports long-term business growth.

Advantages of FSSAI Registration

  • Legal Recognition
    Provides official authorization to operate your food business legally, ensuring compliance with food safety laws and helping avoid penalties or legal action.

  • Business Expansion Opportunities
    Enables easier entry into new markets, retail chains, and business partnerships by demonstrating adherence to recognized food safety standards.

  • Right to Use the FSSAI Logo
    Allows you to display the trusted FSSAI logo on food products and packaging, enhancing brand credibility and consumer confidence.

  • Increased Consumer Trust
    Reassures customers that your food products meet established safety, hygiene, and quality benchmarks.

  • Easier Access to Finance and Investors
    Improves your chances of securing bank loans, funding, and investor support, as financial institutions and partners prefer licensed and compliant businesses.

Types of FSSAI Licenses

In India, food businesses are required to obtain one of three types of FSSAI registrations or licenses based on their scale of operations, annual turnover, and geographic reach. Understanding the difference between FSSAI Basic Registration, FSSAI State License, and FSSAI Central License helps ensure that you apply for the correct license and remain fully compliant with regulatory requirements.

Type Turnover Criteria Scale of Operations Issuing Authority
Basic Registration Up to ₹12 lakhs per annum Small-scale food businesses, petty vendors Local / State Food Safety Department
State License ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores per annum Medium-sized manufacturers, restaurants, food processors operating within one state State Food Safety Authority
Central License Above ₹20 crores per annum or interstate operations Large manufacturers, multi-state businesses, importers/exporters, government suppliers Central Food Safety Authority

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration in India

To apply for FSSAI registration or an FSSAI license, food business operators must submit certain essential documents to verify their identity, business legitimacy, and compliance with food safety regulations. The exact documents required may vary depending on the type of FSSAI registration or license being applied for.

Commonly Required FSSAI Registration Documents

  • Photo ID Proof
    Government-issued identification of the applicant, such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, Passport, or Voter ID.

  • Business Registration Proof
    Documents establishing the legal existence of the business, such as a Certificate of Incorporation, Partnership Deed, LLP Agreement, or Shop & Establishment Certificate.

  • Address Proof of Business Premises
    Valid proof of the food business location, including a rental/lease agreement, utility bills, or property ownership documents.

  • Food Safety Plan
    A document outlining food safety management and hygiene practices. This is mainly required for certain license categories and food business types.

Additional Documents (as applicable)

Depending on the nature of the food business, the following documents may also be required:

  1. Supporting documents such as self-declaration forms

  2. List of food products or food categories to be handled

  3. Detailed description of food business activities

  4. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local municipal corporation

  5. Improvement notice, if previously issued by food authorities

  6. Annual return (mandatory for food manufacturers)

FSSAI Registration Process in India

Obtaining FSSAI registration in India involves a simple and systematic process that food businesses must follow to ensure legal compliance and food safety certification. Below are the key steps involved in the FSSAI food licensing and registration procedure:

Steps for FSSAI License Registration

  1. Choose the Appropriate License Type
    Determine whether your business requires FSSAI Basic Registration, State License, or Central License based on your annual turnover, scale of operations, and geographic reach.

  2. Prepare the Required Documents
    Gather all necessary documents, including identity proof, business registration proof, address proof of the premises, and food safety management plans (where applicable).

  3. Submit the Application (Form A or Form B)

    • Form A is used for FSSAI Basic Registration (small-scale food businesses).

    • Form B is used for FSSAI State and Central License applications.

  4. Pay the Government Fees
    The applicable fee depends on the license type and validity period (typically 1 to 5 years). Payment is completed online at the time of application submission.

  5. Verification and Inspection (If Applicable)
    For State and Central Licenses, the concerned authority may conduct a physical inspection of the food premises, usually within 7–15 working days.

  6. Receive the FSSAI Registration Certificate
    Once the application is approved, the FSSAI registration or license certificate is issued digitally. The processing time generally ranges from 7 to 30 working days, depending on the license type and inspection requirements.

FSSAI Registration Fees

FSSAI registration fees vary depending on the type of registration or license and the validity period selected, which can range from 1 to 5 years. The government fee is nominal for small and petty food businesses and increases based on the scale, turnover, and complexity of the food business operations.

FSSAI License Type Government Fee (₹) Validity
Basic Registration ₹100 per year 1 to 5 years
State License ₹2,000 per year 1 to 5 years
Central License ₹7,500 per year 1 to 5 years

Note: If you use our professional service, the fee will be extra.

Validity and Renewal of FSSAI License

FSSAI licenses are issued for a validity period ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on the option selected by the applicant at the time of registration. Food business operators must monitor their license expiry date to ensure continuous compliance and uninterrupted business operations.

When to Apply for Renewal

Renewal applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the license expiry date. Timely renewal helps avoid legal issues, penalties, and operational disruptions.

Late Renewal Penalty

If the renewal application is not filed within the prescribed timeline, a late fee penalty may be imposed. Operating a food business with an expired FSSAI license can result in fines, legal action, or penalties under applicable food safety laws.

Advantages of FSSAI License Renewal

Timely renewal of your FSSAI license offers several key benefits that help keep your food business compliant, credible, and operational. Renewing your license on time ensures smooth business continuity without legal or financial challenges.

 

  • Continuity of Business
    Prevent interruptions in your food business operations by ensuring your FSSAI license remains valid at all times.

  • Avoidance of Fines and Penalties
    Protect your business from penalties, legal action, or fines that may arise from operating with an expired FSSAI license.

  • Maintaining Customer Trust
    Demonstrate your ongoing commitment to food safety and quality standards by keeping your license up to date, thereby strengthening consumer confidence and brand reputation.

Legal Penalties for Not Having FSSAI Registration

FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food business operators in India under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. As per Section 32 of the Act, food safety authorities are empowered to issue improvement notices to food business operators to ensure compliance with prescribed safety standards.

Failure to comply with these improvement notices or operating a food business without a valid FSSAI registration or license can result in serious legal consequences. These may include penalties, fines, suspension or cancellation of the food license, and even closure of the business. Below is a detailed overview of the penalties applicable under the Act:

Sl. No. Particulars Fine
1 Food quality not up to the Act's standards ₹2 Lakh (Petty manufacturer – ₹25,000/-)
2 Sub-standard food ₹5 Lakh
3 Misbranded food ₹3 Lakh
4 False description or deceptive advertising ₹10 Lakh
5 Extraneous matter in food ₹1 Lakh
6 Disregard for the food safety officer's instruction ₹2 Lakh
7 Unhygienic processing or manufacture ₹1 Lakh

Why Choose FilingIndia for FSSAI Registration?

Choosing the right legal partner can make the FSSAI registration process faster, easier, and more reliable. FilingIndia stands out as a trusted FSSAI consultant in India, providing end-to-end support to help food businesses comply with all legal requirements seamlessly. Here’s why thousands of businesses rely on FilingIndia for their FSSAI registration:

End-to-End Support

From document preparation to final license delivery, we manage every step of the FSSAI registration process, ensuring you don’t miss any critical details.

Expert Guidance

Our team of experienced FSSAI consultants provides accurate, personalized advice tailored to your business type and specific requirements.

Quick Turnaround

We understand that time is crucial for your business. FilingIndia offers one of the fastest FSSAI registration services, helping you obtain your license without unnecessary delays.

Affordable Pricing

FilingIndia delivers professional legal support at competitive rates, making expert FSSAI registration services accessible to startups, small businesses, and large enterprises alike.

Start and grow your business in India with FilingIndia’s expert support.

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