How to Apply for FSSAI License (Food Business Registration)
Issued by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
An FSSAI license or registration is mandatory for every person or entity engaged in any food business in India — manufacturing, processing, storing, distributing, transporting, or selling food. FSSAI is the apex food regulatory body of India and its registration ensures that food businesses meet the prescribed standards for safety and quality. There are three levels: basic registration for very small operators, state licence for medium businesses, and central licence for large-scale manufacturers and importers.
Who needs it
Every food business operator (FBO) in India — restaurants, hotels, dhabas, cloud kitchens, home bakers, tiffin services, sweet shops, grocery stores selling packaged food, manufacturers, food importers, exporters, distributors, and transporters of food. Even a home cook who sells food commercially needs FSSAI registration.
Processing time
Basic registration: 7 working days; State licence: 30 working days; Central licence: 60 working days
Documents required
- Identity proof of the FBO — Aadhaar, PAN or Voter ID
- Proof of address of the business premises
- List of food products to be manufactured, stored, or sold
- Photograph of the applicant
- Bank account details
- Partnership deed or Certificate of Incorporation (for non-proprietorship entities)
- NOC from municipality or panchayat (for manufacturing units in some states)
- Water test report (for manufacturers using bore water)
- For state and central licence: food safety management plan
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Step-by-step process
- 1Determine the correct licence category — basic, state, or central — based on your annual turnover and business type
- 2Visit the FSSAI FoSCos portal and register as a food business operator
- 3Fill in the application with details of the business, premises, and food products
- 4Upload the required documents
- 5Pay the prescribed fee, which varies by licence category and validity period
- 6Submit the application and note the application ID
- 7An inspector may visit the premises for state and central licence applications
- 8Receive the FSSAI licence or registration certificate on approval
- 9Display the FSSAI number and certificate at the business premises and on all food packaging
FAQs
What happens if I run a food business without an FSSAI licence?
Operating a food business without valid FSSAI registration or licence is a punishable offence under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Penalties can include fines and imprisonment. Food safety officers conduct regular inspections.
Which FSSAI category applies to me?
Basic registration applies to businesses with annual turnover below Rs. 12 lakh. State licence applies to businesses with turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore. Central licence is for businesses with turnover above Rs. 20 crore, and all importers, exporters, and large manufacturers.
How long is an FSSAI licence valid?
FSSAI licences are issued for a period of 1 to 5 years, chosen at the time of application. A longer validity means fewer renewal cycles. It must be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties.
Does a home baker or home food business need FSSAI registration?
Yes. If you are selling food commercially — even from your home — you need at least a basic FSSAI registration. The turnover threshold applies: if you earn less than Rs. 12 lakh a year from food sales, you get basic registration.