What is FSSAI License and Why Do You Apply It?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the government body that makes rules for food safety in India. Apply FSSAI License is a legal document that food businesses must have to operate. Think of it as an ID card for your food business that shows you follow safety rules.
If you make, sell, distribute, or store any food product, you need this license. It protects your customers by ensuring your food is safe to eat. It also builds trust in your brand and helps your business grow.
Types of FSSAI Licenses/Food License
| License Type | For Whom? | Annual Turnover Limit | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| FSSAI Registration (Basic License) | Small food businesses, retailers, petty manufacturers | Up to ₹12 lakhs | 1 to 5 years |
| State FSSAI License | Medium-sized businesses operating within one state | ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores | 1 to 5 years |
| Central FSSAI License | Large businesses, import/export, central government agencies | Above ₹20 crores | 1 to 5 years |
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Food License
Step 1: Know Which License You Need
Check the chart above to see which license fits your business size and type. Small home bakers or tea stalls need Basic Registration. A medium-sized restaurant or bakery needs a State License. Large manufacturers or importers need a Central License.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
You will need:
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Identity and address proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID)
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Proof of business address (rent agreement or electricity bill)
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List of food products you will deal in
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Food safety management plan
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Layout plan of your processing unit
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Photographs of owners
Step 3: Apply Fssai license Online
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Visit the official FSSAI website: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/
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Click on “Apply for License/Registration”
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Choose the right application form: Form A for Basic Registration, Form B for State/Central License
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Fill in all details carefully
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Upload your documents
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Pay the fee online (fees are different for each license type)
Step 4: Get Inspection (If Needed)
For State and Central Licenses, an FSSAI officer may visit your premises to check if you follow hygiene and safety standards. For Basic Registration, inspection is usually not needed.
Step 5: Receive Your License
If your application is complete and correct, you will get your FSSAI /Food license within 30-60 days. The license has a unique 14-digit number that must be printed on all your food packages.
Benefits of Having FSSAI Food License
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Legal Protection: Operate your business without fear of penalties or shutdowns.
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Customer Trust: Customers feel safer buying from licensed businesses.
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Business Growth: You can sell online, in supermarkets, and even export.
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Bank Loans: Easier to get business loans with proper licenses.
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Quality Standards: Helps you maintain good quality and hygiene.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Wrong License Type: Applying for Basic when you need State License.
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Incomplete Forms: Leaving blank spaces in the application.
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Wrong Documents: Uploading unclear or invalid documents.
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Address Mismatch: Business address in documents should match exactly.
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Ignoring Renewal: FSSAI license needs renewal every 1-5 years.
Renewal of FSSAI License
Don’t forget to renew your license before it expires. You can renew it online 30 days before the expiry date. If your license expires, you will have to apply for a fresh license again.
Conclusion
Getting your FSSAI license is not just a legal formality—it’s a step toward building a trustworthy, safe, and successful food business. The process is now mostly online and straightforward if you have your documents ready. Start your application today and grow your food business with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How much does an FSSAI license cost?
A: Fees vary by license type. Basic Registration is ₹100/year. State License ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000/year. Central License is ₹7,500/year.
Q2: How long does it take to get the license?
A: Basic Registration takes 7-10 days. State License takes 30 days. Central License takes 30-60 days.
Q3: Can I apply offline for FSSAI license?
A: No, all applications are now online through the FoSCoS portal.
Q4: What happens if I run a food business without FSSAI license?
A: You may have to pay a heavy penalty (up to ₹5 lakhs) or even face jail time.
Q5: Do I need a new license if I open another branch?
A: Yes, each business location needs a separate FSSAI license.
Q6: Can I change my license type later?
A: Yes, if your business grows, you can upgrade from Basic to State or State to Central license.
Q7: Is FSSAI license needed for cloud kitchens or home bakers?
A: Yes, any food business, including home-based ones, needs at least Basic FSSAI Registration.