Overview of FSSAI License
What is an FSSAI License?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing food safety and ensuring compliance with food safety laws in India. Any food business operator (FBO) involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, transportation, or sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI License or Registration to legally operate.
FSSAI registration provides a 14-digit unique license number, which must be printed on all food packaging to ensure consumer awareness and regulatory compliance.
Who Requires an FSSAI License?
Any entity involved in food-related activities must obtain an FSSAI registration. This includes:
- Food manufacturers & processors – Bakeries, confectioneries, dairy units, oil processing units, meat processing units.
- Food retailers & wholesalers – Grocery stores, supermarkets, food supply chains.
- Restaurants, Hotels & Cafeterias – Restaurants, food stalls, catering businesses, home kitchens, food trucks.
- Hawkers & Street Vendors – Small vendors selling ready-to-eat food.
- Cold Storage & Warehousing Units – Businesses handling perishable food storage.
- Food Exporters & Importers – Companies engaged in international trade of food products.
- E-commerce Food Suppliers – Online food delivery platforms, cloud kitchens, and packaged food sellers.
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration
Business Category | Eligibility |
|---|---|
Small Food Businesses (Petty Retailers, Street Vendors, Home Kitchens) | Annual turnover below ₹12 lakh. |
Medium Food Businesses (Restaurants, Manufacturers, Wholesalers, Storage Units) | Annual turnover between ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore. |
Large Food Businesses (Importers, Exporters, Large-Scale Manufacturers) | Annual turnover above ₹20 crore. |
Benefits of Obtaining an FSSAI License
Legal Compliance – Mandatory for all food businesses to operate legally.
Brand Recognition – Enhances business credibility and trust among consumers.
Consumer Confidence – Ensures food safety standards are met.
Market Expansion – Helps businesses expand into new markets, including exports.
Access to Government Benefits – Makes businesses eligible for government schemes and funding.
International Acceptance – FSSAI certification aligns with global food safety standards.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
FSSAI licenses are categorized based on business size, turnover, and production capacity:
Type of FSSAI Registration | Eligibility Criteria | Application Form |
|---|---|---|
FSSAI Basic Registration | Turnover less than ₹12 lakh per annum | Form A |
FSSAI State License | Turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore per annum | Form B |
FSSAI Central License | Turnover exceeding ₹20 crore per annum | Form B |
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
To apply for an FSSAI License, the following documents must be submitted:
For Basic FSSAI Registration
- Photo ID of Food Business Owner – Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID.
- Business Registration Certificate – GST Registration, Shop & Establishment License, or Partnership Deed.
- Proof of Business Address – Electricity bill, Rent Agreement, or NOC from property owner.
- Food Safety Management Plan – Basic food safety compliance document.
- List of Food Products – A declaration of products manufactured, stored, or sold.
For FSSAI State License
- All documents required for Basic Registration.
- Form B – Filled and Signed Application.
- Blueprint of the Processing Unit – Layout of food production facility.
- Details of Directors/Partners/Proprietor – Personal and business information.
- Water Analysis Report – Ensuring safe water usage.
- List of Machinery & Equipment – Details on production capacity.
For FSSAI Central License
- All documents required for State License.
- Proof of Import/Export (if applicable) – Import-Export Code (IEC).
- Recall Plan – Procedure for withdrawing unsafe food products.
- Ministry of Commerce Certificate – Required for Export Oriented Units (EOUs).
- Food Safety Compliance Certificate – Issued by local food authorities.
FSSAI License Government Fee
FSSAI License Type | Government Fee |
|---|---|
Basic FSSAI Registration | ₹100 |
State FSSAI License | ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 (Varies by business type) |
Central FSSAI License | ₹7,500 |
FSSAI License Renewal
- FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years.
- Businesses must renew their FSSAI license 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
- The renewal process is similar to new registration and can be done via the FoSCoS portal.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with FSSAI Norms
Any FBO failing to comply with FSSAI regulations may face penalties. Below are the fines for violations:
Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
Selling substandard food | ₹5 lakh |
Misbranding of food | ₹3 lakh |
False advertising | ₹10 lakh |
Unsanitary food handling | ₹1 lakh |
Obstructing Food Safety Officer | ₹2 lakh |
FSSAI Registration Process
The FSSAI license application is a fully online process via the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal.
Step 1: Determine License Type
- Select the appropriate FSSAI registration type based on business turnover and nature.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application
- Complete Form A (Basic) or Form B (State & Central License).
- Provide business details, food category, and production capacity.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
- Submit identity proof, business registration, address proof, and food safety plan.
Step 4: Fee Payment
- Pay the FSSAI registration fee online based on the type of license.
Step 5: Inspection & Verification
- The Food Safety Department may inspect premises for compliance.
Step 6: FSSAI Certificate Issuance
- Once verified, the FSSAI License is issued, valid for 1 to 5 years.
- The 14-digit FSSAI number must be printed on food packaging and displayed at business premises.
Why Choose CapEasy for FSSAI Registration?
At CapEasy, we make FSSAI registration simple and hassle-free, ensuring businesses comply with food safety laws.
End-to-End Support – From documentation to license approval.
Quick & Easy Registration – Fast processing through online applications.
Error-Free Documentation – Avoid rejections with our expert assistance.
Post-License Compliance – Assistance with renewal, audits, and compliance reports.

