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In India, food safety and hygiene are crucial aspects of running any food-related business. Whether you own a small bakery, a restaurant, a food truck, or a large-scale food manufacturing unit, obtaining an FSSAI Registration or FSSAI License is a mandatory requirement under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This law ensures that all food products are safe for consumption and that businesses follow proper hygiene and quality standards. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about FSSAI Registration, FSSAI Certification, and the importance of hiring a professional FSSAI Consultant to simplify the process.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a government body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is responsible for regulating and supervising food safety across the country. FSSAI sets scientific standards for the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food products to ensure that they are safe and hygienic.
For consumers, the FSSAI logo and registration number printed on packaged food products serve as a mark of trust and quality. For businesses, obtaining an FSSAI License or FSSAI Certification enhances credibility, builds brand reputation, and helps in avoiding legal penalties.
There are mainly three types of FSSAI Licenses/Registrations, depending on the size and scale of the business:
Basic FSSAI Registration:
This is required for small-scale food businesses such as small retailers, food stalls, petty food manufacturers, and home-based food units with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs. It is a simple registration process where a 14-digit FSSAI number is issued to the business.
State FSSAI License:
Medium-sized businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores must apply for a State License. This includes mid-level manufacturers, storage units, transporters, distributors, and restaurants operating within a single state.
Central FSSAI License:
Large-scale food businesses with operations in multiple states or an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores are required to obtain a Central License. This includes major food manufacturers, exporters, importers, and large restaurant chains.
Each category of FSSAI License ensures that food operators are following the necessary safety and hygiene practices according to their scale of operation.
The documents required may vary slightly based on the category of the license, but generally include:
Passport-size photograph of the applicant
Proof of business address (rent agreement, utility bill, etc.)
Identification proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
Food Safety Management Plan (FSMS)
List of food products to be handled or manufactured
NOC from the local authority (if applicable)
Import/export code (for importers/exporters)
For Central and State Licenses, additional documents such as company incorporation certificates, turnover proofs, and water analysis reports may also be required.
The process of obtaining an FSSAI Certification involves the following steps:
Determine Eligibility:
Identify whether your business requires a Basic Registration, State License, or Central License based on turnover and nature of operations.
Application Submission:
The application is submitted online through the FSSAI FoSCoS portal along with the required documents and fee.
Document Verification:
The submitted documents are reviewed by the food safety department. If needed, authorities may conduct an inspection of the premises.
Approval and Issuance:
Once approved, the FSSAI registration certificate or license is issued, containing a unique 14-digit number. This number must be displayed on all food packages and at the business premises.
The validity of an FSSAI License ranges from 1 to 5 years, and it should be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties.
Having an FSSAI Certification offers multiple benefits for food business operators (FBOs):
Legal Compliance: Avoids penalties and ensures smooth operations without legal obstacles.
Consumer Trust: Enhances credibility among consumers as it guarantees safety and hygiene.
Business Expansion: Necessary for exporting food products or expanding into new states.
Brand Reputation: Strengthens brand image and competitiveness in the market.
Better Quality Assurance: Encourages businesses to maintain consistent hygiene and food safety standards.
Applying for an FSSAI License can seem complex due to documentation, eligibility criteria, and compliance procedures. This is where a professional FSSAI Consultant plays a vital role.
An experienced consultant helps in:
Evaluating your business type and determining the appropriate license category.
Preparing and verifying documents to avoid rejection or delays.
Filing the FSSAI application accurately through the FoSCoS portal.
Assisting with renewals, modifications, and compliance audits.
Providing ongoing guidance on food labeling and packaging requirements.
By hiring a reliable FSSAI Consultant, you save time, avoid errors, and ensure your business meets all legal standards effortlessly.
Kickstart Business Advisors LLP is one of the leading business consulting firms in India, helping entrepreneurs and companies obtain registrations, licenses, and certifications hassle-free. Obtaining FSSAI Registration or FSSAI Certification is not just a legal formality but a crucial step in building consumer confidence and maintaining quality standards in the food industry. Whether you are starting a small home-based food venture or managing a large restaurant chain, having a valid FSSAI License protects your business from penalties and strengthens your market credibility.
To make the process smooth and error-free, consider consulting an expert FSSAI Consultant who can guide you through every step — from documentation to compliance.
Food safety is not just a rule; it’s a responsibility — and FSSAI helps you uphold it.