Food License Registration: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Food License Registration is a mandatory requirement for businesses involved in the food industry. It is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure that food products meet safety and hygiene standards. Whether you run a small food stall, restaurant, food processing unit, or any food-related business, obtaining an FSSAI license is essential for compliance, credibility, and customer trust.

Types of Food License Registration

FSSAI issues three types of food licenses based on the scale and nature of the food business:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration:

   • For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.

   • Ideal for petty food manufacturers, small retailers, and home-based food businesses.

   • Requires Form A submission.

2. State FSSAI License:

   • For businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore.

   • Suitable for medium-sized food manufacturers, distributors, and restaurants.

   • Requires Form B submission.

3. Central FSSAI License:

   • For businesses with an annual turnover above ₹20 crore.

   • Necessary for large-scale manufacturers, exporters, importers, and central government agencies.

   • Requires Form B submission.

Who Needs an FSSAI License?

Businesses involved in the following activities must obtain an FSSAI license:

• Food manufacturers and processors

• Food traders and wholesalers

• Restaurants and cafes

• Home-based food businesses

• Caterers and cloud kitchens

• Importers and exporters of food products

• Dairy and meat processing units

• Storage and cold chain businesses

Documents Required for Food License Registration

To apply for an FSSAI license, the following documents are generally required:

• Basic FSSAI Registration:

  • Identity proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card)

  • Business registration certificate

  • Address proof of the business location

  • Passport-sized photographs

• State/Central FSSAI License:

  • Form B duly completed and signed

  • Layout plan of the food processing unit

  • List of food products manufactured

  • Details of machinery used (if applicable)

  • Water testing report (for manufacturing units)

  • List of directors/partners with ID proofs

  • NOC from local authorities

Steps to Apply for Food License Registration

1. Determine the Type of License: Based on your business turnover and operations.

2. Gather Required Documents: Prepare all necessary documents.

3. Online Application Submission: Visit the FSSAI website (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/) and apply online.

4. Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable registration fee.

5. Inspection and Verification: FSSAI authorities may inspect the premises if required.

6. License Issuance: If all conditions are met, the license is issued within 7-60 days.

Benefits of Food License Registration

• Legal Compliance: Avoids legal penalties and ensures smooth business operations.

• Consumer Trust: Builds credibility and boosts customer confidence in your products.

• Market Expansion: Helps in expanding your business across different regions.

• Quality Assurance: Ensures food safety and maintains hygiene standards.

• Business Growth: Enhances brand reputation and attracts partnerships.

• Government Support: Enables eligibility for government schemes and funding.