FSSAI Registration & License in India
Get Your Food License Online — Fast, Reliable & Fully Compliant with TaxClue
If your business deals with food — whether manufacturing, trading, packaging, or delivery — obtaining an FSSAI registration or license is mandatory under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
FSSAI registration ensures your business meets India’s food safety, hygiene, and quality standards. Operating without it can attract heavy fines or legal penalties.
At TaxClue, we simplify the entire process — from registration to renewal and ongoing compliance — ensuring your business remains legally secure, inspection-ready, and trusted by customers.
- Affordable, Fast & Customer-Focused
- Expert-Guided & Reliable
- 100% Online, Transparent & Hassle-Free
- End-to-End Compliance Partner
What is FSSAI Registration?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates and monitors food businesses to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food for consumers.
Every Food Business Operator (FBO) — whether it’s a restaurant, manufacturer, online seller, or home kitchen — must obtain an FSSAI license before starting operations.
Upon registration, your business receives a 14-digit FSSAI License Number, which must be displayed on packaging, invoices, and premises — it represents your brand’s legal compliance and food safety commitment.
It indicate that the business complies with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The 14-digit number helps identify:
The state and location of the producer
The type of business
The validity period of the license
Types of FSSAI Licenses
FSSAI Basic Registration
- For small food businesses with an annual turnover below ₹12 lakhs.
- Covers home kitchens, petty vendors, food stalls, and small shops.
- Issued by the local food authority and valid for 1–5 years.
- Requires basic identity and business documents for approval.
- Ideal for new or small-scale food operators.
FSSAI State License
- For medium businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Applies to restaurants, manufacturers, storage units, and distributors.
- Issued by the State FSSAI Authority, valid for 1–5 years.
- Needs detailed documents including layout plan and food list.
- Suitable for businesses operating within a single state.
FSSAI Central License
- For large or multi-state operations with turnover above ₹20 crores.
- Covers exporters, importers, food chains, and national brands.
- Issued by the Central FSSAI Authority (New Delhi).
- Requires detailed compliance documents and safety reports.
- Mandatory for national and international food businesses.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration / License?
- Builds legal credibility and trust among consumers
- Allows the use of the FSSAI logo, improving brand value
- Mandatory for retail, export, e-commerce, and franchise expansion
- Ensures adherence to national food quality standards
- Enables participation in government and corporate contracts
- Helps in avoiding heavy penalties and product recalls
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fine up to ₹5 lakh
- Imprisonment up to 6 months
- Product seizure or recall orders
- License cancellation or suspension
Who Needs an FSSAI License?
- Central / State Government Institutions
- Milk and milk products
- Fish, seafood, Meat and poultry processing
- Fruits and vegetables processing
- Vegetable oil and fat manufacturing
- Bakery and confectionery units
- Beverages (non-alcoholic / packaged drinking water)
- Food grains, cereals, and pulses milling
- Ready-to-eat and instant foods
- Nutraceuticals, health supplements, and functional foods
- Units engaged in repacking, relabeling, or branding of pre-processed food products under their own brand name.
- Restaurants / Hotels / Cafés / Canteens
- Retailers / Wholesalers / Distributors
- Storage and Transport
- Food Importers / Exporters
- E-Commerce Food Businesses
- Pet Food and Animal Feed
- Packaging and Labelling Units
- Primary Producers and Small Vendors
Step-by-Step Process
- Consultation & Eligibility Check - We evaluate your business activities and turnover to determine whether you need a Basic, State, or Central license.
- Document Preparation & Verification - We gather, verify, and organize your documents as per FSSAI’s format and ensure they comply with FoSCoS guidelines.
- Online Application Filing (FoSCoS Portal) - Our experts file your application on the official FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal of FSSAI.
- Inspection (if applicable) - For certain businesses, the local Food Safety Officer may conduct a premises inspection before approval.
- License Issuance - Once approved, you receive your 14-digit FSSAI License Number and certificate, valid for 1–5 years.
Documents Required for Basic Registration
- Applicant’s photo and ID proof (PAN, Aadhaar)
- Business address proof (electricity bill/rent agreement)
- List of food items handled
- Food safety declaration
Documents Required for State / Central License
- Form B duly signed
- GST Certificate / MOA, AOA, or Partnership Deed / LLP Agreement
- List of directors or partners
- Proof of business premises & NOC from the owner along with photos
- Machinery and equipment details (for manufacturers)
- List of food categories or products
- Map of Unit / FSMS (Food Safety Management System) plan
- Turnover proof / CA Certificate
- NOC from local authority
Post-License Compliances
- Display of License Number You must display the 14-digit FSSAI license number at your business premises and on all food packaging, invoices, menus, and bills.
- Annual Returns Certain food manufacturers, importers, and exporters are required to file Form D-1 (Annual Return) and Form D-2 (Half-Yearly Return) by May 31st every year.
- Food Safety Audits Maintain a Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan and periodic hygiene audits to meet FSSAI’s standards.
- Product Testing Conduct regular testing of food samples through FSSAI-approved laboratories to ensure safety and compliance with prescribed standards.
- Record Keeping Maintain records of suppliers, production, stock, sales, and distribution for a minimum of one year for inspection purposes.
- Renewal and Modification Any change in business details — name, address, products, partners, or machinery — must be updated in your license via FoSCoS portal.
- Display of Hygiene Rating (for Restaurants) Hotels and restaurants should display FSSAI hygiene ratings as per FSSAI’s “Eat Right India” initiative.
Why Choose TaxClue ?
We combine expert advice with digital convenience — ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
End-to-End Registration Support
From name approval to incorporation certificate.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden charges, no surprises.
Post-Incorporation Guidance
GST, accounting, and compliance setup.
Dedicated Compliance Expert
One-point contact for your entire process.
FSSAI License Closure / Surrender Compliance
- Voluntary Surrender The license holder can apply online on the FoSCoS portal to voluntarily surrender the license. Once approved, it will be marked as “Inactive.”
- Closure Application Submit an online closure request with valid reasons (business discontinuation, merger, relocation, etc.) and supporting documents.
- Clearance of Dues All pending returns, fees, or penalties must be cleared before closure.
- Confirmation from Department After review, the Food Department will process and approve the closure or cancellation request.
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FAQ
Got Questions?
We've Got Answers!
Is FSSAI registration mandatory for all food businesses?
Yes. Every business that manufactures, stores, distributes, or sells food products in India must register or obtain a license from FSSAI.
How can I apply for an FSSAI license online?
You can apply through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. TaxClue handles this process completely online for you.
What is the validity of an FSSAI license?
Licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the term chosen. Renewal must be done before expiry.
Do I need separate FSSAI licenses for multiple outlets?
Yes. Each outlet or unit requires a separate license, though a single Central license can cover multi-state head offices.
Can an FSSAI license be modified or updated?
Yes. Changes in business details, address, or product categories can be updated by filing a modification request through FoSCoS.
What if I stop my food business?
You must surrender your license online and file closure compliance to officially deactivate your registration.