Overview
FSSAI Registration is a compulsory compliance for every Food Business Operator (FBO) in India involved in manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products. Issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), this license ensures food safety, hygiene, and quality standards for consumers.
Whether you run a small home-based food business or a large food manufacturing unit, FSSAI registration is the first legal requirement to start food operations in India.
What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI Registration is a 14-digit unique license number issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It certifies that the food business complies with prescribed safety and hygiene standards.
The FSSAI license number must be printed on food packaging, menus, invoices, and displayed at the business premises.
What is FSSAI Registration?
- Legal Compliance
Operating a food business without FSSAI registration is illegal and can attract heavy penalties or closure. - Consumer Trust & Credibility
An FSSAI license assures customers that the food is safe, hygienic, and meets government standards. - Business Expansion
Required for opening current bank accounts, applying for GST, selling on online food platforms, and entering retail chains. - Quality Control
Encourages best practices in food handling, storage, packaging, and distribution. - Mandatory for Online Platforms
Food delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, and Flipkart require FSSAI registration.
Types of FSSAI License
Basic FSSAI Registration
Basic FSSAI Registration is required for small food businesses having an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs. It is suitable for home kitchens, small retailers, street food vendors, hawkers, and petty food manufacturers who operate on a limited scale. This registration ensures legal compliance and allows small food operators to conduct their business smoothly while meeting food safety standards.
State FSSAI License
The State FSSAI License is applicable to medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores. It is required for restaurants, food manufacturers, storage units, distributors, hotels, and transporters operating within a particular state. This license ensures that businesses comply with food safety regulations and maintain proper hygiene and operational standards.
Central FSSAI License
The Central FSSAI License is mandatory for large food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or those operating in multiple states. It is suitable for large manufacturers, importers, exporters, e-commerce food sellers, and businesses supplying food to government bodies. This license ensures nationwide compliance and adherence to strict food safety regulations.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI registration is mandatory for:
- Restaurants, cafés & hotels
- Home-based food businesses
- Food manufacturers & processors
- Wholesalers, distributors & retailers4
- Bakeries & sweet shops
- Cloud kitchens
- Food importers & exporters
- Online food sellers
Process for FSSAI Registration
- Identify License Type
Determine whether you need Basic, State, or Central FSSAI license based on turnover and activity. - Document Preparation
Compile required documents such as identity proof, address proof, and business details. - Online Application
Submit application on the FSSAI portal with prescribed fees. - Verification
Authorities may review documents or inspect premises (for State/Central license). - License Issuance
Once approved, the FSSAI Registration Certificate is issued with a unique 14-digit number.
