If you are involved in any kind of food business in India—whether you are manufacturing, processing, packaging, storing, distributing, or selling food—then FSSAI registration is something you need to understand and follow. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the main body responsible for ensuring food safety and setting standards across the food industry in India.
Having an FSSAI Registration or registration is not just a legal formality. It’s a very important step that helps in maintaining hygiene, ensuring quality, and building trust among customers. In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about FSSAI registration in the simplest way possible.
What is FSSAI?
The FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which is a law meant to oversee food safety in India. The FSSAI works under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Its main job is to:
- Lay down food safety standards.
- Regulate the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food.
- Ensure that food is safe for human consumption.
- Provide guidelines for food businesses to follow.
What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI Registration is a 14-digit unique registration or license number that is printed on all food packages. This number gives information about the producer and confirms that the food business follows the safety standards laid out by FSSAI.
Depending on the size and type of your business, you will either need a basic registration or a license. This registration gives official approval to your food business and shows that your business cares about the quality and safety of food.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration?
Any individual or business involved in the following food-related activities must get FSSAI registration or license:
- Food manufacturers
- Food processors
- Food storage units
- Wholesalers and distributors
- Retailers and grocery shops
- Restaurants and cafes
- Food transporters
- E-commerce food delivery platforms
- Importers and exporters of food items
- Online food sellers
Types of FSSAI Registration and License
FSSAI provides three levels of registration or license depending on your business size and yearly turnover:
1. FSSAI Basic Registration
- For businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakh per year.
- Suitable for small food sellers, hawkers, homemade food sellers, and small shops.
- This is a very simple registration process that can be done online.
2. FSSAI State License
- For medium-sized businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore per year.
- Required for small to medium manufacturers, processors, storage units, and distributors within a state.
3. FSSAI Central License
- For large-scale businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crore or those involved in food import/export.
- Required for large food manufacturers, international food chains, importers, and exporters.
- Also required for businesses operating in more than one state.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
1. Legal Compliance
FSSAI registration ensures that your food business is running legally. If you operate without this license, you can face heavy fines or legal action.
2. Customer Trust
Having an FSSAI registration or license shows that your food is safe to consume. Customers are more likely to trust businesses that follow food safety standards.
3. Business Growth
With proper registration, it becomes easier to expand your business into new locations or sell on big platforms like Amazon, Zomato, and Swiggy.
4. Better Branding
FSSAI numbers can be printed on product packaging. It gives your brand more credibility in the market.
5. Funding and Loans
Financial institutions prefer to give loans or funding to legally registered businesses. Your FSSAI registration helps prove that your business is genuine and responsible.
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
The documents needed depend on the type of registration you are applying for:
For Basic Registration:
- Identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.)
- Passport size photograph
- Business name and address
- Nature of the food business
- Contact details
For State and Central License:
- Identity proof and address proof of business owner
- Business registration certificate (like GST, Shop Act)
- List of food products you deal with
- Layout of the food processing unit (if applicable)
- List of equipment and machinery used
- Water test report (if water is used in processing)
- Food safety management plan
How to Apply for FSSAI Registration
The process is simple and can be completed online:
- Visit Website – Open the official FSSAI registration portal.
- Fill Application Form – Enter your name, business details, and food category, and upload your PAN card.
- Review & Submit – Check all details and submit the form.
- Pay Fee – Complete the payment online as per your license type.
- Verify OTP – Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile or email.
- Inspection (If Required) – Officials may inspect your premises for approval.
- Get an FSSAI License – Download your FSSAI license from the website once approved.
Penalties for Not Having FSSAI Registration
If you operate a food business without FSSAI registration or license, you can face:
- A fine of up to ₹5 lakhs
- Imprisonment in some cases
- Closure of the business
- Seizure of food products
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving false or incorrect information in the application
- Not renewing the license on time
- Operating beyond the limits of the license
- Not displaying the FSSAI number on food packages
Suggested read: Renewing and Upgrading Your FSSAI License
Conclusion
FSSAI registration is more than just a legal requirement—it is a foundation for a successful and trustworthy food business. It shows that your business is committed to providing clean, safe, and high-quality food to your customers.
Whether you are a small vendor or a big company, following food safety standards is crucial. Getting registered with FSSAI builds a good image, protects your business from legal trouble, and opens new growth opportunities.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Apply for your FSSAI registration today and run your food business with confidence and peace of mind.
