What is FSSAI Registration (Food License)?

The FSSAI License, also known as Food License, is a legal requirement for anyone involved in the food business in India, from manufacturers and traders to restaurants, cloud kitchens, home-based sellers, and online food platforms. It is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

This license ensures that the food business complies with hygiene and quality standards, protects consumer health, and builds credibility in the market. Depending on the business size and turnover, the registration is categorized into Basic Registration, State License, or Central License.

Whether you're a startup food delivery kitchen, a home tiffin service, or a large manufacturer, FSSAI registration is the first step toward running a legal and trusted food business in India.

✅ Benefits of FSSAI Registration
🎯 Provide 7 strong benefit points, written from the client's perspective.

1️⃣ Build customer trust with an official government food safety seal
2️⃣ Legally operate your food business and avoid heavy penalties
3️⃣ Use the FSSAI logo in your marketing and packaging
4️⃣ Open doors to online delivery platforms like Zomato and Swiggy
5️⃣ Gain access to business expansion and export opportunities
6️⃣ Meet requirements for loans, tenders, and vendor partnerships
7️⃣ Ensure compliance with hygiene, labeling, and safety standards

📑 Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
📂 List all required documents with relevant emojis and brief explanations.

1️⃣ 🆔 Identity Proof – PAN card or Aadhaar card of the business owner
2️⃣ 🏠 Address Proof – Electricity bill or rent agreement of business premises
3️⃣ 🧾 Business Constitution – Partnership deed, company incorporation, or proprietorship declaration
4️⃣ 📍 Premises Layout – Blueprint or layout of the food unit (if applicable)
5️⃣ 📄 Food Category List – Details of food products you deal in
6️⃣ 📸 Passport Photo – Recent photo of the applicant for identification

👤 Eligibility for FSSAI Registration
🧾 Explain in detail who is eligible or required to avail of this service.

Any business involved in food manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, or sale is required to register with FSSAI. Eligibility is determined by annual turnover and scale of operations:

• Basic Registration – Turnover up to ₹12 lakh/year (home kitchens, petty vendors)

• State License – Turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore/year (medium units, restaurants)

• Central License – Turnover above ₹20 crore/year or operating in multiple states (exporters, big chains)

This applies to food stalls, dhabas, caterers, online food sellers, transporters, wholesalers, retailers, and import/export food businesses.

🔄 Process of Getting FSSAI License
🔁 Provide a step-by-step explanation of how the service is executed from start to finish.

1️⃣ Eligibility Check – We determine the appropriate license type based on your business
2️⃣ Document Collection – We collect all required documents from you
3️⃣ Application Filing – We prepare and submit your application on the FSSAI portal
4️⃣ Fee Payment – Government fee is paid based on license category
5️⃣ Inspection (if applicable) – Authorities may inspect your premises for hygiene compliance
6️⃣ License Issuance – Upon approval, you receive your FSSAI license digitally

⏱️ Timeline for FSSAI Registration
⏳ Mention the approximate time it takes to complete the service.

FSSAI registration is usually completed within 7 to 10 working days for Basic and State licenses. Central license or applications that require inspection may take up to 30 days. Timely submission of accurate documents ensures quicker approval.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about FSSAI Registration
💬 Include 10 frequently asked questions with informative answers written in a simple, professional tone.

1️⃣ Is FSSAI registration mandatory for home kitchens?
Yes, even home-based food sellers must obtain a Basic FSSAI registration.

2️⃣ How do I know if I need a Basic, State, or Central license?
It depends on your annual turnover and business operations. We help you identify the correct type.

3️⃣ Can I sell food online without FSSAI registration?
No, FSSAI registration is mandatory for listing on platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Amazon Pantry.

4️⃣ What is the validity of the FSSAI license?
The license is valid for 1 to 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.

5️⃣ Is there any penalty for not having a food license?
Yes, running a food business without an FSSAI license may attract fines up to ₹5 lakh or imprisonment.

6️⃣ Do I need separate licenses for different locations?
Yes, each branch or unit operating in a different state requires a separate FSSAI license.

7️⃣ Can I update my license if my business expands?
Yes, you can upgrade your FSSAI license from Basic to State or Central based on new turnover.

8️⃣ Can I get an FSSAI license for a food truck or mobile van?
Yes, food trucks and mobile food vendors are eligible for FSSAI registration.

9️⃣ Is there a physical inspection for all applicants?
No, inspections are generally done for State and Central licenses or large-scale operations.

🔟 How do I display the FSSAI license number?
You must display it on your product labels, packaging, invoices, and business premises.