Overview
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, ensures food businesses follow safety and quality standards. Depending on annual turnover, businesses must apply for either Basic Registration (up to ₹12 lakhs), State License (₹12 lakhs–₹20 crores), or Central License (above ₹20 crores) through the FoSCoS portal. The process involves checking eligibility, uploading documents, and paying fees, with approval timelines ranging from 7 to 60 days. Valid for 1 to 5 years, the license not only ensures legal compliance but also boosts consumer trust, brand credibility, and market opportunities, making it essential for food businesses of all sizes.
FSSAI registration is a must for every food business operator in India. Your business needs this significant license to operate legally if you manufacture, sell, store, or distribute food products. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) oversees the food business sector in India. The authority makes sure businesses follow safety standards. A 14-digit registration number appears on all food packages. This number shows compliance and quality assurance. The FSSAI registration process matters to your business, whether you own a small food stall or run a large manufacturing facility. We’ll guide you through the step-by-step process to get your FSSAI registration in this piece. You’ll learn about documentation requirements and application fees that range from Rs. 100 for simple registration to Rs. 7,500 for central licenses.
What is FSSAI and why is it important?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), a 15-year-old organisation, serves as the country’s top food regulatory body. The government created this independent statutory authority under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006. This act helped combine various food-related laws that different ministries and departments managed earlier.
FSSAI’s main goal is to make sure all food in India meets strict safety standards. It acts as a single point of contact for food safety matters. This approach replaced the old system, where multiple departments handled different aspects of food safety.
FSSAI’s headquarters is in New Delhi, with six regional offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Cochin, and Guwahati. The authority also manages 22 referral laboratories, 72 state/UT laboratories, and 112 NABL-accredited private laboratories across India.
Key Functions of FSSAI:
- Developing science-based standards for food products
- Regulating the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food items
- Accrediting certification bodies involved in food safety management systems
- Providing training programs for those in food businesses
- Creating nationwide information networks for reliable food safety information
- Contributing to international technical standards for food
The FSSAI registration shows compliance, quality, and safety. Businesses that display the FSSAI logo earn consumer trust by showing their dedication to clean food preparation and quality standards.
FSSAI registration offers major benefits to food business operators. It protects businesses from legal issues since operating without proper registration can lead to big fines. Following these rules meets legal requirements and keeps operations running smoothly.
An FSSAI license makes business growth easier. Banks often look at this certification when reviewing loan applications because it shows regulatory compliance and commitment to food safety. This certification helps speed up customs clearance, especially when you have food import and export operations.
The authority sets up food safety management systems, laboratory accreditation procedures, and scientific advisory mechanisms. FSSAI studies data about food consumption patterns, biological risks, contaminants, and new threats to take the right preventive steps.
Food Safety Officers work throughout the country to enforce FSSAI rules. In 2021, FSSAI made a big change by giving permanent licenses to restaurants and food manufacturers who file annual returns.
Food Business Operators (FBOs) – from manufacturers and traders to restaurants – need to get an FSSAI registration or license before they start operations. This rule applies to all businesses, whatever their size or scope.
FSSAI prevents food adulteration through strict quality testing and standards enforcement. Only safe, wholesome food reaches consumers. The authority plays a vital role in protecting public health and building trust in India’s food industry.
Want to grow your business or explore your next big idea?
Get step-by-step strategies, proven by real entrepreneurs- download the Boss Wallah App now
Who needs FSSAI registration?
The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, requires every person or business involved in the food industry to get an FSSAI registration or license. This requirement applies to everyone who handles food at any stage – from raw materials to distribution.
1. Food manufacturers and processors
Food manufacturing units need to register based on their production capacity and yearly turnover:
- Identify your business category: Figure out if you’re a manufacturer, processor, or repackager
- Check your turnover:
- For turnover up to Rs. 12 lakhs: Apply for Basic Registration
- For turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores: Apply for State License
- For turnover above Rs. 20 crores: Apply for Central License
- Assess production capacity: You’ll need a Central License if you produce more than 2 MT per day
- Gather required documents: You’ll need business registration certificates, identity proof, and premise ownership documents
- Visit the FoSCoS portal: Set up your account at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
- Select appropriate manufacturing category: Pick from 12 different manufacturing business types
- Fill Form A (basic) or Form B (state/central): Make sure you complete all mandatory fields
- Upload documents and pay fees: Submit your application after document verification
2. Retailers, hawkers, and food stalls
Small food retailers, hawkers, and temporary stalls need FSSAI registration to keep their products safe:
- Determine your category: Check if you’re a petty retailer, hawker, or temporary stall holder
- Verify turnover limit: Your yearly turnover should not exceed Rs. 12 lakhs for basic registration
- Prepare documentation: Keep ready your identity proof, business location proof, and passport-sized photograph
- Complete Form A: Add your communication details in the registration form
- Self-attest declaration: You’ll need to declare that you follow basic hygiene requirements
- Submit application: You can apply through the FoSCoS portal or visit the local Food Safety Department
- Display certificate: Show your registration certificate clearly at your business location after approval
3. Cloud kitchens and e-commerce food sellers
E-commerce food services and cloud kitchens now come under FSSAI’s scope:
- Determine business scale: Your yearly turnover decides your license type
- Up to Rs. 12 lakhs: Basic Registration
- Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores: State License
- Above Rs. 20 crores: Central License
- Gather specific documents: You’ll need a rental agreement and a water quality test report, along with standard requirements
- Prepare a food safety management plan: Write down your food safety measures and standard operating procedures
- Apply through FoSCoS: Submit your application with all documents
- Undergo inspection: Your premises might need inspection
- Maintain standards: Your kitchen should meet hygiene requirements with well-trained staff
- Display license number: Show your FSSAI number on online platforms and packaging
Note:
Food delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and online grocery stores like Amazon, Big Basket must get FSSAI registration whatever their turnover.
4. Importers and exporters of food products
All importers and exporters need a Central FSSAI License:
- Determine license type: Central License is mandatory for all importers and exporters
- Gather specific documents: You’ll need import-export code, company registration details, and product information
- Apply on FoSCoS portal: Submit your application online
- Pay applicable fees: Central License costs between Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 7,500 plus 18% GST
- Await verification: Officials will check your documents and might inspect your premises
- Comply with standards: Follow FSSAI rules about food safety and labelling
- Renew periodically: You’ll need to renew your license every 1-5 years
Tips
Smart planning can save you yearly renewal hassles. FSSAI licenses are available for 1-5 years with the right fee payment.
| Business Type | Annual Turnover | License Type | Application Form | Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petty Food Business | Up to Rs. 12 lakhs | Basic Registration | Form A | 1-5 years |
| Medium-sized Food Business | Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores | State License | Form B | 1-5 years |
| Large Food Business | Above Rs. 20 crores | Central License | Form B | 1-5 years |
| Food Importers/Exporters | Any turnover | Central License | Form B | 1-5 years |
| Multi-state Operations | Any turnover | Central License | Form B | 1-5 years |
3 Types of FSSAI registration based on business size
FSSAI provides three different registration categories for food businesses in India based on their annual turnover and scale. These categories come with their own eligibility requirements, application processes, and fees that work for different business sizes.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
Small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakh can get Basic FSSAI Registration. This category has petty retailers, hawkers, temporary stall holders, and small-scale cottage industries that deal in food products.
Here’s how to get Basic FSSAI Registration:
- Check if you qualify (turnover must be under Rs. 12 lakhs)
- Get these documents ready:
- Photo identity proof
- Business location proof
- Passport-sized photograph
- Business registration certificate (if applicable)
- Head to the FoSCoS portal (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in)
- Fill out Form A with all your details
- Pay Rs. 100 as registration fee
- Submit everything and wait for verification
- Once you get your certificate, display it where everyone can see it
2. State FSSAI License
Medium-sized food businesses need a State FSSAI License when their annual turnover falls between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore. This covers small to medium manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, and distributors who operate in one state.
Here’s how to get a State FSSAI License:
- Make sure you qualify (turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores)
- Get these documents together:
- Form B (filled and signed)
- Your business premises plan with measurements
- Contact details of all directors/partners
- List of equipment and machinery with capacity details
- Report showing water is safe to drink
- Required NOC from local authorities
- Submit through the FoSCoS portal
- Pay the license fee (Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 depending on your business type)
- Be ready for FSSAI officials to inspect
- Put up your license at your business location once you get it
Note:
Your state government issues these licenses, and you can only use them within that state.
3. Central FSSAI License
Large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crore need a Central FSSAI License. This applies to large manufacturers, importers, exporters, multi-state operators, and central government agencies.
Here’s how to get a Central FSSAI License:
- Check your eligibility (turnover above Rs. 20 crores or specific business types)
- Get these special documents ready:
- Form B (filled and signed)
- Processing unit plan with measurements
- Details of all directors/partners
- Equipment list with capacities
- Import-Export Code if you import/export
- Food safety management plan
- Documents showing where raw materials come from
- Submit everything through the FoSCoS portal
- Pay Rs. 7,500 as license fee
- Go through inspection and verification
- Start using your license after approval
Tips
You can save time on yearly renewals by choosing a 1-5 5-year validity period when you apply. Just pay the appropriate fee and get your FSSAI license for multiple years.
| License Type | Annual Turnover | Application Form | Fee Range | Validity | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Up to Rs. 12 lakhs | Form A | Rs. 100 | 1-5 years | State Government |
| State License | Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores | Form B | Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 | 1-5 years | State Government |
| Central License | Above Rs. 20 crores | Form B | Rs. 7,500 | 1-5 years | Central Government |
Pro Tip: Want to expand your business? Discover the top government loans & schemes for Indian small businesses in 2025 – Click here to learn more
Eligibility criteria for each FSSAI license type
Your FSSAI license eligibility depends on your business scale, production capacity, and geographical reach. The right classification will give you proper compliance and help avoid unnecessary costs or legal complications.
Turnover-based classification
FSSAI classifies food businesses based on annual financial turnover:
- Assess your annual turnover accurately from the financial statements
- Match your figures with FSSAI thresholds:
- Turnover up to Rs. 12 lakhs: Simple Registration
- Turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores: State License
- Turnover above Rs. 20 crores: Central License
- Verify special categories that might override standard turnover criteria:
- Transportation businesses need a Central License for turnover above Rs. 30 crores
- Wholesalers need a Central License for turnover above Rs. 30 crores
- Document your turnover with income tax returns or audited financial statements
- Select appropriate form: Form A for Simple Registration or Form B for State/Central License
Production and storage capacity
Your production capacity often determines license requirements:
- Identify your business category (dairy, meat processing, oil production, etc.)
- Calculate your daily production volume
- Compare with threshold limits:
- Dairy units: Central License needed for processing more than 50,000 litres of milk daily or 2,500 MT of milk solids annually
- Vegetable oil processing: Central License needed for production above 2 MT per day
- Slaughterhouses: Central License needed for slaughtering more than 50 large animals, 150 small animals, or 1,000 poultry birds daily
- Meat processing: Central License needed for handling more than 500 kg of meat daily or 150 MT annually
- General food manufacturing: Central License needed for production capacity above 2 MT per day
- Determine storage capacity requirements:
- Cold/refrigerated storage: Central License needed for capacity above 10,000 MT
- Atmospheric controlled + cold storage: Central License needed for capacity above 1,000 MT
- Storage without atmospheric control: Central License needed for capacity above 50,000 MT
- Prepare relevant capacity documentation for submission
Note:
Petty Food Businesses with production capacity under 100 kg/ltr per day can qualify for Simple Registration, whatever their food category (except dairy and meat products, which have specific criteria).
Geographical operation (single vs multiple states)
Your operations’ geographical extent directly affects license requirements:
- Map your operational territories across different states and UTs
- Identify your head office/registered office location
- Determine license type based on operations:
- Operations in multiple states need a Mandatory Central License, whatever the turnover
- Single-state operations need a State License (unless turnover or production capacity requires a Central License)
- Local operations need Simple Registration for small businesses operating locally
- For multi-state businesses:
- Choose one location as the Head Office/Registered Office
- Submit operational details for each state
- Apply through the Central Licensing Authority
- For e-commerce businesses: Central License becomes mandatory for operations in multiple states
Tips
You can choose a validity period of 1-5 years during application to save on renewal hassles. FSSAI licenses remain valid for up to 5 years with appropriate fee payment.
Documents required for FSSAI registration
Your FSSAI registration success depends on proper documentation. The paperwork you need changes based on your business type and license category. Let’s look at everything you need at each step.
Identity and address proof
You’ll need proof of identity and address for all FSSAI applications:
- Get a government-issued photo ID like an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Voter ID card
- Submit address proof for your business premises through utility bills, rent agreements, or property ownership documents
- Keep passport-sized photographs of the proprietor/partners/directors ready
- Make sure your documents are clear, valid, and readable
- Each partner or director needs to provide their ID proof
Business registration documents
Your business’s legal status needs these documents:
- Know your business structure (proprietorship, partnership, company)
- Get the right business constitution document:
- Proprietorship: Self-declaration affidavit
- Partnership: Partnership deed
- Company: Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA)
- Cooperative: Certificate obtained under the Cooperative Societies Act, 1861 or the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002
- Submit Form IX to nominate a person as per Clause 2.5 of FSS Rules, 2008 (except for sole proprietorships)
- Show proof that you own or rent your business premises (sale deed, rent agreement, or electricity bill)
Food safety management plan
Your FSMS plan shows how you’ll maintain food safety standards:
- The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, requires FSMS
- Your complete plan should cover:
- Operational steps in food handling
- Potential hazards identification
- Hazard control methods
- Critical limits
- Monitoring procedures
- Corrective actions
- Record-keeping systems
- Draw a process flow diagram for your food operations
- Make an inspection checklist for quality control
- Sign a self-declaration on plain paper (this replaces the old FSMS affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper)
Note:
The Food Safety and Standards Act requires an FSMS plan even if you have HACCP, ISO, or FSSC certifications.
List of food products handled
You need a clear list of your food items:
- List all food products you’ll make, process, or sell
- Manufacturers should provide product specifications with ingredients and additives
- Include complete composition information for proprietary foods
- Add product specifications with purity criteria for nutraceuticals
- Get FSSAI headquarters’ approval for each novel food item
Tips
Pick multiple-year validity (up to 5 years) when you apply. This saves time and helps you avoid frequent renewals.
| Document Type | Basic Registration | State License | Central License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identity & Address Proof | Government ID, Address proof | Government ID, Address proof | Government ID, Address proof |
| Business Documents | Basic business proof | Partnership deed/Certificate of Incorporation | Partnership deed/Certificate of Incorporation |
| Premises Documents | Proof of possession | Proof of possession + Layout plan | Proof of possession + Layout plan |
| Technical Documents | Not required | Water analysis report, Equipment list | Water analysis report, Equipment list, Production capacity |
| FSMS Plan | Self-declaration | Detailed plan | Detailed plan + Recall plan |
| Additional Documents | None | Based on business type | IEC for importers, Ministry certificates for specific categories |
Pro Tip: Want to launch a food brand from your kitchen? Here’s the ultimate beginner’s guide to starting a cloud kitchen in 2025 – Click now
6 Step-by-step FSSAI registration procedure
The FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal optimises the FSSAI registration process and makes it available to food business operators of all sizes. Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps you need to follow.
Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS portal
Navigate to the official FoSCoS portal at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in using your web browser. You’ll find a yellow box labelled “Apply for License/Registration Fee: Rs 100 to 7500 per year” on the homepage. Click it to start your application. New users should create an account with their email and mobile number, while existing users can log in with their credentials.
Step 2: Choose the type of registration
Your next task after logging in is to pick the right registration option for your business category. The system shows different state options and business types. Read through the definitions carefully and select the radio button that matches your food business operations. This selection is vital because it determines your license type.
Step 3: Fill out Form A or Form B
The next step requires you to complete the appropriate application form:
- Form A for Basic Registration (annual turnover under Rs. 12 lakhs)
- Form B for State or Central License
Provide accurate information in all mandatory fields about your business, including details about technically qualified personnel, business premises, and food items you handle. Dairy units need extra information about milk processing capacity and products.
Step 4: Upload required documents
The system lets you upload multiple documents based on your business category. Make sure your uploads are clear and legible. A thorough check of all documents before submission prevents application rejection.
Step 5: Pay the registration fee
The payment process supports various online methods. License fees vary as follows:
- Basic Registration: Rs. 100
- State License: Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000
- Central License: Rs. 7,500
The system generates a 17-digit reference number after successful payment that helps you track your application status.
Note:
The system processes applications within 7 days of submission. You’ll receive written communication if your application gets rejected, along with the reasons.
Step 6: Await inspection and approval
The Food Safety Department will review your application next. Some license categories require officials to inspect your premises for safety compliance. An email confirms your approved FSSAI registration certificate. You can download it from the FoSCoS portal after logging in. Your business location should display this certificate during operating hours.
| Step | Action | Timeline | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Based on the business category | Day 1 | https://foscos.fssai.gov.in |
| 2 | Choose registration type | Day 1 | Based on business category |
| 3 | Complete Form A/B | Day 1-2 | Fill all mandatory fields |
| 4 | Upload documents | Day 2-3 | All documents must be clear and legible |
| 5 | Pay registration fee | Day 3 | Fees vary by license type |
| 6 | Await approval | 7-60 days | Basic registration: 7 days, License: up to 60 days |
FSSAI registration fees and validity
FSSAI license fees and validity periods play a significant role in maintaining continuous compliance. Let’s explore the financial aspects and renewal timelines of different license categories.
Fee structure for Basic, State, and Central licenses
Your business category determines the FSSAI fee structure:
- Identify your license type based on turnover and operations
- Calculate applicable fees according to these guidelines:
- Basic Registration: Flat fee of Rs. 100 per year
- State License: Between Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 per year (varies by business category)
- Central License: Fixed at Rs. 7,500 per year
- Choose a validity period between 1-5 years
- Multiply the annual fee by your chosen validity period
- Add applicable GST to determine the final payment amount
Validity period and renewal process
Your renewal process follows specific timelines to stay compliant:
- Mark your expiry date on your calendar when you receive your license
- Plan for renewal at least 120 days before expiration
- Prepare renewal documentation:
- Copy of expired license/registration
- Self-declaration or FSMS certificate
- Updated operational details if changes occurred
- Complete Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State/Central License)
- Submit through the FoSCoS portal (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in)
- Pay renewal fees (same as new registration)
Note:
FSSAI order dated January 11, 2023 grants instant renewals without prior approval when FBO details remain unchanged, the license isn’t suspended, and manufacturers have filed annual returns.
Late renewal penalties
Missed renewal deadlines result in escalating penalties:
- Assess your timing relative to license expiry
- Calculate applicable penalties:
- Applications filed less than 30 days before expiry: Rs. 100 per day late fee
- Renewals 1-90 days after expiry: Three times the annual license fee
- Renewals 91-180 days after expiry: Five times the annual license fee
- Submit a renewal application with a penalty payment
- After 180 days post-expiry: License considered cancelled; apply for fresh registration
Tips
Multi-year validity options (up to 5 years) help you avoid frequent renewal hassles and potential penalty fees.
| License Type | Annual Fee | Validity Options | Renewal Timeline | Late Penalty (Before Expiry) | Late Penalty (After Expiry) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Rs. 100 | 1-5 years | 180-30 days before expiry | Rs. 100/day if less than 30 days before expiry | 3x fee (1-90 days), 5x fee (91-180 days) |
| State License | Rs. 2,000-5,000 | 1-5 years | 180-30 days before expiry | Rs. 100/day if less than 30 days before expiry | 3x fee (1-90 days), 5x fee (91-180 days) |
| Central License | Rs. 7,500 | 1-5 years | 180-30 days before expiry | Rs. 100/day if less than 30 days before expiry | 3x fee (1-90 days), 5x fee (91-180 days) |
🎥 Also Watch: Home Bakery Business Course with Minimal Investment Course
Benefits of having an FSSAI license
FSSAI license provides many benefits that can help your food business grow. Let me show you how this certification can make a real difference.
Legal compliance and credibility
Your business needs FSSAI registration to operate legally. Here’s what you get:
- Avoid legal penalties – You could face fines up to Rs. 5 lakh or six months in jail without compliance
- Prevent business disruption – Your products could be seized and operations halted without FSSAI compliance
- Show commitment to food safety regulations and quality standards
- Improve business reputation through nationally recognised standards
- Stand out from non-compliant competitors in the marketplace
Consumer trust and brand value
Customer confidence grows with FSSAI certification:
- Display the FSSAI logo on products, menu cards, packaging, and promotional materials
- Build consumer assurance as customers check the FSSAI certification before buying
- Boost brand image by showing your commitment to quality and food safety
- Increase customer loyalty through proven safety standards
- Use certification as a powerful marketing tool to build lasting relationships
Note:
The FSSAI logo on your product serves as a safety guarantee that helps customers choose your products over competitors.
Ease of business expansion and funding
Your growth opportunities expand with proper certification:
- Access larger markets, including national and international distribution channels
- Simplify customs clearance for import and export businesses
- Improve eligibility for business loans and funding from financial institutions
- Supply to government institutions, schools, and hospitals that need FSSAI certification
- Receive support from FSSAI through training programs and industry updates
Tips
A 5-year FSSAI license reduces renewal hassles and gives better returns on your investment.
| Benefit Category | Basic Registration | State/Central License |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Protection | Avoid penalties up to Rs. 5 lakh | Complete legal compliance with FSSAI Act |
| Consumer Trust | Local credibility | Improved national/global credibility |
| Market Access | Local markets | Access to larger retail chains and e-commerce |
| Financial Benefits | Simple compliance | Easier access to loans and funding |
| Global Opportunities | Limited | International trade facilitation |
Key Takeaways
FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food businesses in India, from small vendors to large manufacturers, ensuring legal compliance and consumer safety.
• Choose the right license type: Basic Registration (up to Rs. 12 lakhs turnover), State License (Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores), or Central License (above Rs. 20 crores)
• Apply through FoSCoS portal: Complete Form A or B online, upload required documents, and pay fees ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 7,500 based on license type
• Prepare essential documents: Identity proof, business registration, food safety management plan, and premises documentation are mandatory for a successful application
• Plan for multi-year validity: Choose 1-5 year validity periods to avoid frequent renewals and potential late penalties of up to 5x the annual fee
• Leverage business benefits: FSSAI certification enhances consumer trust, enables market expansion, improves funding eligibility, and prevents legal penalties up to Rs. 5 lakh
The FSSAI logo on your products serves as a powerful trust signal, distinguishing compliant businesses from competitors while opening doors to larger markets, government contracts, and international trade opportunities.
Want to take your business to the next level?
Explore Boss Wallah, where 500+ practical courses by successful entrepreneurs offer step-by-step guides on how to expand, optimise, and future-proof your business. Courses are available in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, and English, so you can learn in your own language. Discover proven strategies, business models, and growth systems that work in the real world – download the Boss Wallah App now.
Conclusion
Getting FSSAI registration is essential for any food business in India, whether small or large, as it ensures legal compliance, boosts credibility, and builds customer trust. Depending on your annual turnover, you’ll need either a Basic Registration (up to ₹12 lakhs), State License (₹12 lakhs–₹20 crores), or Central License (above ₹20 crores). The registration process is simple via the FoSCoS portal, and fees range from ₹100 to ₹7,500. Choosing a longer license validity can help avoid frequent renewals, making FSSAI not just a legal requirement but a powerful tool for growth, safety, and success in the competitive food industry
FAQs
FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
Yes, even home-based food sellers must register under Basic FSSAI.
It’s valid for 1 to 5 years, based on your selection during registration.
No, selling food without registration is illegal and punishable by law.
Yes, a penalty of up to ₹5 lakhs or imprisonment can be imposed.
Starts at ₹100/year for basic registration and goes up to ₹7,500/year.
Yes, you can upgrade your license if your turnover/business type changes.
Usually takes 7 to 30 working days, depending on license type and location.
Yes, you need a separate State License for each state where you operate.
No, unless you’re selling or distributing food yourself.
