Food License Registration in India: Complete Guide

What Is Food License Registration?

Food License Registration is the process through which food business operators (FBOs) in India obtain permission from the FSSAI to manufacture, store, distribute, or sell food products.

The FSSAI license is not just a legal formality — it’s a mark of trust that guarantees your products meet India’s food safety standards.

Key Objective:

To ensure that food products in India are safe for consumption and are produced, handled, and sold in hygienic conditions.

Why Food License Registration Is Important

Obtaining an FSSAI food license is not optional — it’s a legal necessity under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Here’s why every food business must get it:

1. Legal Requirement: Operating without a license can lead to heavy penalties or business closure.

2. Consumer Trust: FSSAI logo on your packaging boosts customer confidence.

3. Business Growth: Helps in brand recognition and expansion across states.

4. Access to Loans & Funding: Investors prefer licensed and compliant businesses.

5. Export Eligibility: FSSAI registration is mandatory for food exports from India.

Who Needs Food License Registration in India?

Every entity involved in the food supply chain — from production to distribution — must obtain an FSSAI license.

This includes:

• Restaurants, cafés, hotels, and bakeries.

• Packaged food manufacturers.

• Cloud kitchens and tiffin services.

• Dairy and meat processing units.

• Food importers and exporters.

• Caterers and event food suppliers.

• Online food sellers (e.g., Swiggy, Zomato vendors).

• Grocery stores, supermarkets, and wholesalers.

Even small home-based food sellers and petty vendors must register under the Basic FSSAI Registration category.

Types of Food Licenses in India

The FSSAI issues three categories of licenses, depending on business size and turnover.

1. Basic FSSAI Registration (Small Businesses)

• For: Startups, petty retailers, home kitchens, and small food stalls.

• Annual turnover: Up to ₹12 lakh.

• Validity: 1 to 5 years.

• Issued by: Local Food Authority.

Example: A homemade pickle seller or a small bakery operating from home.

2. State FSSAI License

• For: Medium-sized food manufacturers, restaurants, or distributors.

• Annual turnover: ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore.

• Issued by: State Government.

Example: A medium-scale catering service or restaurant chain operating within one state.

3. Central FSSAI License

• For: Large-scale or multi-state operators.

• Annual turnover: Above ₹20 crore.

• Issued by: Central FSSAI Authority.

Example: A food manufacturing plant exporting or supplying to multiple states.

Documents Required for Food License Registration in India

The documentation varies slightly depending on the type of license, but the following are commonly required:

For Basic and State FSSAI License:

• Passport-sized photo of the applicant.

• PAN card and Aadhaar card.

• Proof of business address (rental agreement, utility bill, etc.).

• Business constitution certificate (Partnership Deed, Incorporation Certificate).

• List of food items handled or manufactured.

• Declaration form and NOC from the municipality.

For Central FSSAI License:

• Detailed layout plan of the processing unit.

• List of equipment and machinery used.

• Source of raw materials.

• Water quality report (from ISI-approved lab).

• Food safety management plan.

• Import Export Code (if applicable).

Step-by-Step Process for Food License Registration in India

Let’s break down the FSSAI registration process for better clarity.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Identify which license type (Basic, State, or Central) applies to your business based on turnover and scale of operations.

Step 2: Create FSSAI Account

Visit the official FSSAI portal at Food license site and create your user ID.

Step 3: Fill Application Form

Complete Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State/Central License).
Enter all required details — business name, address, type of food, and machinery details.

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of all required documents. Ensure they are clear and valid.

Step 5: Fee Payment

Pay the prescribed government fee online (varies by license type and state).

Step 6: Inspection by FSSAI Officer

For State and Central licenses, an FSSAI officer will inspect your premises before approval.

Step 7: License Issuance

Once verified, you’ll receive the FSSAI license number (14-digit unique code) that must appear on your food packaging and invoices.

Validity and Renewal of FSSAI License

• License validity: 1–5 years, as chosen during registration.

• Renewal: Apply at least 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.

If expired, the license cannot be renewed — a new application must be filed.

Fees for Food License Registration

Note: Additional inspection or document charges may apply based on the local authority.

Benefits of Getting a Food License

1. Consumer Confidence: FSSAI-certified food assures customers of safety and hygiene.

2. Legal Protection: Shields your business from penalties and shutdowns.

3. Market Expansion: Enables you to sell products through major e-commerce and retail platforms.

4. Business Credibility: FSSAI logo adds authenticity to your brand.

5. Access to Government Schemes: Eligible for MSME and export subsidies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Registration

1. Incorrect License Category: Applying for Basic registration despite higher turnover.

2. Incomplete Documents: Missing layout plans or incorrect addresses.

3. Delayed Renewals: Expired licenses can lead to penalties or closure.

4. Skipping Inspections: Non-compliance after registration can attract suspension.

5. Ignoring Labeling Rules: FSSAI mandates nutritional and ingredient labeling.

Real-Life Case Study

Example:
A Hyderabad-based cloud kitchen initially operated without an FSSAI license. After a customer complaint, the business was fined ₹2 lakh and temporarily shut down. Upon obtaining proper FSSAI registration and compliance training, their business not only reopened but gained recognition on Swiggy and Zomato — leading to a 40% revenue increase within six months.

Lesson:
Timely FSSAI registration builds credibility and prevents legal troubles.

Key Compliance Requirements After Registration

After obtaining your food license registration in India, continuous compliance is crucial.

Mandatory Requirements:

• Display FSSAI license at your business location.

• Print license number on all food packages.

• Maintain hygiene and safety standards as per Schedule 4 of the FSSAI Act.

• Conduct regular food testing if manufacturing or processing.

• Submit annual returns for manufacturers and importers.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Expert Insights & Tips

• Always consult an FSSAI-registered consultant for documentation accuracy.

• Keep digital backups of your license and renewals.

• For businesses operating in multiple states, obtain both Central and State licenses.

• Register your brand under Trademark Registration for complete protection.

• Combine FSSAI registration with GST registration for full compliance.

Internal Linking Suggestions

To enhance SEO and user experience, consider internal links such as:

• “Business registration in India” to your business incorporation service page.

• “GST registration in India” to your GST registration blog.

• “MSME registration in India” for small business compliance.

• “Trademark registration services” for brand protection content.

Pros and Cons of FSSAI Registration

Pros:

• Builds consumer trust.

• Legal authorization to operate.

• Boosts marketing and brand credibility.

• Helps in expansion and funding.

Cons:

• Requires annual renewal.

• Inspection delays in some states.

• Penalties for minor non-compliance.

Statistics: Growth of FSSAI Registrations in India (2024)

• Over 22 lakh active FSSAI-licensed businesses as of 2024.

• 60% increase in home-based food business registrations post-2020.

• Telangana, Maharashtra, and Karnataka are among the top states for FSSAI compliance.

(Source: FSSAI Annual Report 2024)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the main purpose of food license registration in India?

The main purpose is to ensure that food produced, stored, or sold in India meets the safety and hygiene standards prescribed under the FSSAI Act, 2006.

2. How can I check if a business has an FSSAI license?

You can verify any food business’s FSSAI license on the FSSAI website using their 14-digit license number.

3. What happens if I operate without an FSSAI license?

Operating without an FSSAI license is a punishable offence with fines up to ₹5 lakh and possible business suspension.

4. Can a single FSSAI license cover multiple outlets?

No. Each food outlet or branch requires a separate FSSAI license, though a Central license can cover head offices or multi-state operations.

5. How long does it take to get a food license in India?

Typically, it takes 7 to 30 days depending on the license type and state inspection procedures.

Conclusion

To ensure safety, trust, and growth in your food business, obtaining a food license registration in India is essential. It not only fulfills legal requirements but also boosts your brand’s reputation in the competitive food industry. Whether you run a small tiffin service or a large manufacturing unit, timely FSSAI registration safeguards your business from legal issues and ensures consumer confidence.

If you want quick and hassle-free assistance with your food license application, contact Invention Tax Solutions, Hyderabad’s leading registration and compliance service provider. Our experts simplify the process — from document preparation to FSSAI approval — so you can focus on growing your business.

📞 Contact us today to get your FSSAI registration done easily and efficiently!