FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) License or Registration is mandatory for every Food Business Operator (FBO) in India — whether you manufacture, process, store, distribute, sell, or import food products. Operating without FSSAI registration is a punishable offence with heavy fines and business closure risk. This guide explains FSSAI registration vs license, who needs what, the application process, and renewal obligations.
💡 Running a food business without FSSAI? Our CA team obtains FSSAI Basic Registration, State License, and Central License for food businesses across India — quickly and correctly. Send an Enquiry →
1. Types of FSSAI Registration / License
| Type | Annual Turnover / Scale | Who Needs It |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Up to ₹12 lakh | Small/petty food businesses — small vendors, dhabas, home food businesses, small retailers |
| State License | ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore | Medium food businesses — restaurants, hotels, bakeries, processors, distributors |
| Central License | Above ₹20 crore (or multi-state / import/export) | Large manufacturers, importers, exporters, multi-state food businesses, large chain restaurants |
2. Who Must Have FSSAI?
- Restaurants, hotels, dhabas, cafes, and cloud kitchens
- Food manufacturers, processors, and packagers
- Food distributors, wholesalers, and retailers
- Food importers and exporters
- Online food delivery platforms and operators
- E-commerce food sellers (home bakers, Swiggy/Zomato sellers)
- Caterers and food stall operators
- School/college canteens and hospital cafeterias
Home bakers and cloud kitchen operators — FSSAI registration is mandatory even if you operate from home and sell on Swiggy or Instagram. Don't risk fines and closure.
Home Food Business FSSAI →3. Documents Required for FSSAI
- Photo ID and address proof of proprietor / partner / director
- Proof of business address (rent agreement + NOC, utility bill, or ownership document)
- List of food products to be manufactured / sold
- Blueprint / layout of food premises (for State / Central License)
- List of equipment and machinery (for manufacturing licenses)
- NOC from municipality / local body / panchayat (as applicable)
- For State / Central License: Water testing report, medical fitness certificate of food handlers
4. FSSAI Application Process
- Apply on the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal — foscos.the official government portal
- Select registration type (Basic / State / Central) based on turnover and activity
- Upload required documents and pay government fee
- For Basic Registration: FSSAI Registration Certificate issued within 7 days (or deemed approved)
- For State / Central License: FSSAI officer may conduct inspection — License issued within 30–60 days
5. FSSAI Renewal and Compliance
- FSSAI licenses are valid for 1–5 years (chosen at time of application). Renewal must be applied for at least 30 days before expiry.
- Display FSSAI registration number / license number on all food products, packaging, menus, and signboards — mandatory
- Maintain hygiene standards as per FSSAI guidelines — subject to inspection
- Penalty for operating without valid FSSAI: Up to ₹5 lakh fine and business closure
FSSAI Registration & License — For All Food Businesses Across India
Basic Registration, State License, or Central License — our CA team handles FSSAI applications for restaurants, manufacturers, home bakers, cloud kitchens, importers, and all food businesses across India including Banda, NCR, and Western UP.
Get FSSAI Now →Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only, representing our professional views as Chartered Accountants. It does not constitute legal or tax advice. Laws and regulations are subject to change. Please consult our team for situation-specific guidance.