How to Get an FSSAI Licence for Food Business in India
In this guide
Step-by-step Process
Determine Your FSSAI Licence Type
There are 3 types: Basic Registration (turnover < ₹12 lakh/year — small vendors, petty food business), State Licence (turnover ₹12 lakh–₹20 crore/year or specified activities), Central Licence (turnover > ₹20 crore/year or operates in multiple states, imports/exports).
Apply on FoSCoS Portal
Visit foscos.fssai.gov.in (Food Safety Compliance System). Register an account and select your licence type. Fill in business details, food category, production capacity, and premises details.
Upload Documents and Pay Fee
Upload required documents based on licence type. Pay the annual fee: Basic Registration ₹100/year, State Licence ₹2,000–₹5,000/year (by category), Central Licence ₹7,500/year.
Await Inspection (for State/Central Licence)
For State and Central licences, an FSSAI Food Safety Officer may inspect your premises within 30 days. Ensure hygiene standards, pest control, proper labelling, and food safety practices are in place before inspection.
Receive FSSAI Licence and Display It
Once approved, the FSSAI licence/registration certificate is issued online. Display the 14-digit FSSAI licence number prominently on your premises and on all food labels and packaging. Renew annually (Basic) or before expiry date (State/Central, up to 5 years).
Documents Required
- ✓Proof of identity of proprietor/partners/directors (Aadhaar, PAN)
- ✓Proof of business address
- ✓Food safety management plan
- ✓List of food products to be manufactured/processed
- ✓Layout of the food business premises
- ✓NOC from local municipal authority (for certain categories)
Official Government Portals
Common Questions
Is FSSAI registration mandatory for home-based food businesses?
Yes. Any food business, including home kitchens selling food (e.g., tiffin services, cloud kitchens, online food sellers), must have at least a Basic FSSAI Registration if turnover is under ₹12 lakh per year.
What is the penalty for operating without FSSAI licence?
Operating a food business without FSSAI registration can attract a fine of up to ₹5 lakh and imprisonment of up to 6 months. In cases of adulteration causing harm, penalties can be much higher.
Can I sell food on Swiggy/Zomato without FSSAI?
No. Food aggregator platforms like Swiggy and Zomato require all partner restaurants and cloud kitchens to have a valid FSSAI licence/registration before onboarding. It is a mandatory requirement for listing on these platforms.
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