What is FSSAI Registration?
Any business that produces, distributes, stores, or transports food in India must have an FSSAI License and Registration. The necessity for an FSSAI registration or license may depend on the size and type of the business. The FBO will receive a 14-digit number during the FSSAI Registration process, which must be printed on food packaging.
Securing an FSSAI license offers legal advantages, fosters goodwill, guarantees food safety, raises consumer awareness, and facilitates corporate growth. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the governing body under Section 31(1) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration?
- Petty vendors, retail stores, snack shops, bakeries, etc.
- Food establishments (temporary/permanent stalls)
- Hawkers, milk vendors, dairy units
- Meat/fish processors, slaughterhouses
- Food manufacturing, repackaging, oil processing units
- Cold storage, food transporters, distributors, suppliers
- Hotels, restaurants, bars, canteens, Dhabas, cloud kitchens
- Importers/exporters, online food vendors
Types of FSSAI Registration
| Type | Who Needs It? | Turnover/Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| FSSAI Registration | Petty food businesses, hawkers, small retailers, etc. | Annual turnover < ₹12 lakh |
| State License | Medium-sized manufacturers, merchants, processors | Turnover ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore |
| Central License | Large manufacturers, importers/exporters, multi-state operators | Turnover > ₹20 crore |
Eligibility Criteria
- No annual turnover more than ₹12 lakh for basic registration
- Production up to 100 kg/liters per day (except milk/meat)
- Milk handling up to 500 liters/day, slaughtering up to 2 large/10 small animals or 50 poultry/day
- For State/Central License: higher turnover/production as above
Documents Required
- Photo and ID proof of Food Business Operator
- Business constitution certificate (Partnership Deed, COI, etc.)
- Proof of premises (rent agreement, utility bill, etc.)
- List of food products to be handled
- Authority letter, NOC from municipality, etc. (as applicable)
How to Apply for FSSAI Registration Online?
- Visit the FSSAI FoSCoS Portal.
- Register and fill out the application form (Form A or B as applicable).
- Upload required documents and pay the fee online.
- Track application status and respond to queries if any.
- Download your FSSAI certificate once approved.
Validity & Renewal
FSSAI Registration/License is valid for 1 to 5 years, as chosen during application. Renewal must be done before expiry to avoid penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is FSSAI registration mandatory? Yes, for all food businesses in India.
- Can I apply online? Yes, the entire process is online via the FoSCoS portal.
- What is the difference between registration and license? Registration is for small businesses; license (state/central) is for larger ones.
- Do I need GST for FSSAI? GST is required for certain FSSAI services and for businesses registered under GST.
- How long does it take? Registration can be completed in less than 5 days if all documents are in order.
Need Assistance With FSSAI Registration or Compliance?
From FSSAI to GST, Company Registration, Trademark, and more – our experts are here to guide you every step of the way. Let's grow your business, hassle-free.