FSSAI Registration
Food safety is one of the top priorities of the Government of India. To ensure that every food product is safe for consumption, it is mandatory for all food businesses to obtain an FSSAI License before starting operations. The FSSAI license number must also be printed on all packaged food items, which builds consumer trust and ensures quality compliance.
What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) Registration is a certification that ensures food products meet safety and hygiene standards as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
It is mandatory for food manufacturers, traders, restaurants, storage units, and transporters engaged in the food industry.
There are three types of registration based on business size and turnover:
Basic Registration → For small businesses/startups with turnover up to ₹12 lakhs.
State License → For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 crores – ₹20 crores.
Central License → For large businesses operating in more than two states or turnover above ₹20 crores.
Who requires FSSAI food license?
FSSAI License is mandatory for all types of Food Business Operators (FBOs) in India, including:
Food manufacturers & processors
Restaurants, hotels & catering businesses
Packaged food traders & distributors
Importers & exporters of food products
Retailers, wholesalers & storage units
Transporters handling food items
Documents Required For Fssai Food License Registration
Declaration Form
Copy of Rent Agreement (if the business premises is rented)
Copy of Aadhaar Card / Voter ID of Proprietor, Partners, or Directors
Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan or Certificate
Authority Letter (authorizing the responsible person)
Copy of Property Paper (if the business premises is owned)
Electricity / Water Bill of the business place (for address proof)
Form IX: Nomination of Persons by a Company along with Board Resolution
Types of FSSAI Registration
Basic
This is required for small business or startups which have annual turnover below Rs.12 lakhs. Basic registration can be upgraded to state license as your sales graph increases.
State
This license is applicable to mid-sized companies which have annual turnover between Rs.12-20 crores.
Central
In case an Food Business Operator is operating in more than two states, it has to obtain one additional central License for the Head Office/ Registered Office and separate license for each location
Steps for FSSAI Registration
Start the process by taking guidance from an FSSAI license consultant. File Form A on the FSSAI website and make the required payment at the Food Business Operator (FBO) office in your locality
After payment confirmation in your FSSAI account, file Form B along with supporting documents. This includes declarations like board resolution and self-declaration by the business owner. These should ideally be prepared with the help of an FSSAI consultant
Track your FSSAI license application status regularly. If the government raises any queries, you must respond within 15 days, otherwise your application will be rejected
The government department reviews your application thoroughly, which usually takes 45–60 working days. After approval, your FSSAI License Certificate will be issued
Benefits
Legal Identity – Mandatory license that authorizes your food business to operate legally.
Consumer Trust – FSSAI logo on food packaging builds customer confidence and credibility.
Business Growth – Makes it easier to expand into new markets and states.
Government Support – Access to subsidies, schemes, and recognition from authorities.
Export Opportunities – Essential for exporting food products outside India.
Avoid Penalties – Protects your business from heavy fines and legal action.
