COMPLETE GUIDE TO FSSAI LICENSE REGISTRATION IN INDIA(2026 UPDATE).

In India, food safety is regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, commonly known as FSSAI. Any business involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI license or complete FSSAI registration to operate legally. Whether it is a small home-based food venture or a large food manufacturing unit, having a valid FSSAI food license is mandatory under Indian law.

An FSSAI license not only ensures compliance with food safety regulations but also builds consumer trust and credibility for a food business. With the government enabling FSSAI registration online, businesses can now easily apply for an FSSAI license through a structured digital process. However, understanding eligibility, documentation, and the correct type of registration is essential to avoid delays or rejection.

This guide explains everything you need to know about FSSAI registration in India, including who needs it, how to get an FSSAI license, and why timely food business registration is crucial for long-term growth and legal security.

What does FSSAI mean?

FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India which is a central regulatory body responsible for :

1)     Ensuring food safety

2)     Regulating food manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale, and import

It works under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

What Is FSSAI License / Registration?

An FSSAI License or Registration is a legal approval that allows a business to:

• Manufacture food
• Process food
• Store food
• Distribute food
• Sell food
• Import/export food

Every approved business gets:

• 14-digit FSSAI number
• Permission to display the FSSAI logo on food packages

Who Needs to have FSSAI License ?

Any Food Business Operator (FBO) must obtain FSSAI approval, including:

• Restaurants & cafés
• Home-based food businesses
• Cloud kitchens
• Food manufacturers
• Wholesalers & retailers
• Food transporters
• Food importers/exporters
• E-commerce food sellers
• Caterers & food stalls

Types of FSSAI License :

1.      Basic FSSAI Registration

·        Annual turnover: Up to ₹12 lakh

·        For:

o   Small food vendors

o   Home-based food businesses

o   Small retailers

·        Validity: 1–5 years

2.      State FSSAI License

·        Annual turnover: ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore

·        For:

o   Medium-sized manufacturers

o   Restaurants

o   Hotels

o   Large retailers operating within one state

 

3.      Central FSSAI License

·        Turnover: Above ₹20 crore

·        Mandatory for:

o   Importers & exporters

o   Food businesses operating in multiple states

o   Large manufacturers

o   E-commerce food operators

Documents required for FSSAI License :

   Exact documents vary by business type, but commonly required:

·        Identity proof (Aadhaar / PAN)

·        Address proof of business premises

·        Food safety management plan (FSMS)

·        List of food products

·        Proof of possession of premises

·        Partnership deed / incorporation certificate

How to get FSSAI Certificate :

If you want to do FSSAI registration for your food business, you can do the application process online through the official portal.

General Steps involving submission of FSSAI application online:

1.      Identify correct license type : Out of the three above mentioned license types, identity which one is most suitable to your food related business.

2.      Prepare documents :  keep the necessary documents required for filing FSSAI application handy.

3.      File online application : Visit the official portal and complete the online application process.

4.      Application scrutiny by authority : Your application form will be checked by the authority to confirm that you have uploaded all the required documents.

5.      Inspection : If needed, an official from the government will visit your site to make sure that you follow the mandatory legal compliance.

6.      Grant of FSSAI license : If the above steps are followed properly, then, FSSAI certificate will be provided to you. For basic FSSAI registration, the approval process may take around 7 to 15 days whereas for state FSSAI license, the approval may take around 30 to 60 days.

Fees and validity :

Fees depend on:

·        License type

·        Number of years selected(1 to 5)

Longer validity = lower annual costs

Benefits of having FSSAI LICENSE :

·        Legal compliance

·        Builds consumer trust

·        Mandatory for online food platforms

·        Enables food import and exports

·        Avoid penalties and legal action

·        Improves brand credibility

Having an FSSAI license assures consumers that the food business follows safety and hygiene standards prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This trust not only improves brand reputation but also supports long-term business growth by enabling partnerships with online platforms, distributors, and institutional buyers.

Penalties for non compliance :

Under the Food Safety Act :

·        Operating without a license can lead to :

§  Heavy fines

§  Business closure

§  Legal prosecution

To avoid such consequences, food businesses are encouraged to maintain valid registration, follow hygiene norms, and ensure timely renewal as prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.

Food businesses planning to apply for an FSSAI license can complete the process through the official portal or consult experienced professionals for clarity on eligibility, documentation and compliance, helping avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.