FSSAI License Requirements for Food Businesses – Documents & Process 2025

Dreaming of launching your own cloud kitchen, cafe, or food product line in India? Before you perfect your menu, there’s one crucial ingredient you can’t miss: the FSSAI license. Understanding the FSSAI license requirements for a food business is the first step toward legal compliance, ensuring food safety, and building customer trust. This license is a mandatory 14-digit registration number issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to every Food Business Operator (FBO). Without it, your business operates outside the law, risking hefty penalties and a loss of credibility. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process for 2025, from identifying the right license type to gathering documents and navigating the online application. For a broader overview, you might also want to read about How to Start a Restaurant in India.

What is FSSAI and Why is it Mandatory for Your Business?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the primary government body responsible for regulating and supervising food safety in the country. Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, it serves as a single point of reference for all matters relating to food safety and standards. The main objective of FSSAI is to lay down science-based standards for articles of food and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import. This ensures the availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption, protecting public health and promoting fair practices in the food trade.

For any entrepreneur entering the food sector, compliance is not optional. Meeting the requirements for FSSAI license food industry India is a legal obligation for anyone handling food commercially, from a small home-based baker to a large-scale international food importer. This license acts as a certificate of trust, assuring your customers that your products are prepared, handled, and stored in a hygienic environment and meet the quality standards set by the government. Operating without this license can lead to severe legal repercussions, making it an essential foundation for building a sustainable and reputable food business in the long run. Understanding the complete picture is crucial, which includes Starting a Startup in India: Legal and Tax Essentials.

Types of FSSAI Licenses: Which One Do You Need?

Before you start the application process, it’s critical to determine which type of FSSAI license your business needs. The FSSAI categorizes licenses based on the scale and nature of the business operations, primarily determined by annual turnover. Choosing the correct category ensures you meet the right compliance standards and avoid issues during scrutiny. There are three main types of FSSAI licenses.

FSSAI Basic Registration

This is the entry-level registration designed for petty Food Business Operators (FBOs) or small-scale food businesses. It is the most common starting point for new entrepreneurs testing their business ideas.

• Who is it for?: Petty FBOs or small-scale food businesses.
• Criteria: Businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 Lakhs.
• Examples: Hawkers, temporary stall holders, home-based bakers, small canteens, dhabas, and other small food retailers.

FSSAI State License

This license is for mid-sized food businesses that have grown beyond the basic registration threshold but operate within the geographical boundaries of a single state. The compliance requirements for a State License are more detailed than for Basic Registration.

• Who is it for?: Mid-sized FBOs.
• Criteria: Businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 Lakhs and ₹20 Crores.
• Examples: Mid-sized restaurants and hotels (up to 4-star), dairy units, caterers, relabellers, repackers, and food manufacturers operating within a single state.

FSSAI Central License

This is the highest level of licensing and is required for large-scale food businesses, as well as those with operations spanning multiple states or involving international trade. The compliance and documentation for a Central License are the most stringent.

• Who is it for?: Large-scale FBOs, importers, and exporters.
• Criteria: Businesses with an annual turnover of more than ₹20 Crores, operating in two or more states, or involved in food import/export.
• Examples: Large manufacturers, 100% export-oriented units, food e-commerce operators like Swiggy and Zomato, 5-star hotels, food importers, and businesses operating at central government agencies like airports or seaports.

A Complete Guide to FSSAI License Requirements for Food Business in 2025

Once you’ve identified the correct license type, the next step is to gather the necessary paperwork. Meeting these FSSAI license requirements for a food business is essential for a smooth and successful application. The documentation varies based on the license category, with the requirements becoming more comprehensive as the business scale increases. Below is a detailed breakdown of the documents you will need.

Common Documents Needed for All FSSAI Licenses

Regardless of whether you are applying for Basic, State, or Central registration, the following fundamental documents are required:

• Passport-sized photograph of the applicant (proprietor/partner/director).
• Government-issued Photo ID such as an Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Driver’s License of the applicant.
• Proof of business address (e.g., recent electricity bill, rent agreement, or sale deed). If your business premises are rented, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landlord is also required.
• A complete list of food products you plan to manufacture, process, or sell.

Specific Documents Needed for FSSAI License Indian Food Business (Category-wise)

For State and Central licenses, the documentation becomes more specific and technical, aiming to verify the infrastructure and safety protocols of the business.

For FSSAI State License (in addition to common documents):

• Blueprint or Layout Plan: A detailed floor plan of the processing unit, showing dimensions and the allocation of different areas (e.g., storage, processing, packaging).
• Equipment List: A list of all equipment and machinery to be used, along with their model numbers, quantity, and installed capacity.
• Business Constitution Documents: Partnership Deed, Certificate of Incorporation (for companies), or Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA). Before gathering these, it’s wise to be sure about Choosing the Right Legal Structure for Your Business.
• Water Test Report: A report from a NABL-accredited or FSSAI-notified laboratory confirming that the water used in the food processing is potable and safe for consumption.
• Directors/Partners List: A complete list of all directors or partners with their full addresses, contact details, and photo ID.

For FSSAI Central License (in addition to all State License documents):

• FSMS Plan: A comprehensive Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan or a valid certificate (e.g., ISO 22000).
• Source of Raw Material: Declaration of the sources for key raw materials like milk, meat, and fish.
• Import Export Code (IEC): This is mandatory if your business is involved in the import or export of food products. The IEC is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
• NOC from Municipality: A No Objection Certificate from the local municipal authority or any other relevant local body.
• Nomination of Persons (Form IX): A formal nomination of a person responsible for the company’s food safety compliance, as required by the FSS Act.
• Ministry of Commerce Certificate: For 100% Export Oriented Units.

The Step-by-Step FSSAI License Application Process in India

Now that you know the requirements and have your documents in order, you might be wondering how to obtain FSSAI license India. Thankfully, the entire process has been streamlined and moved online. It is managed through the FSSAI’s FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal, a one-stop platform for all FSSAI-related services.

You can start your application on the official FSSAI’s FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal.

Step 1: Sign Up & Eligibility Check

First, visit the FoSCoS portal and create a new user account by providing basic details like your name, email ID, and mobile number. Once registered, the first step is to use the eligibility check tool on the portal. You will be asked to fill in details about your business, such as the type of food activity (e.g., manufacturer, restaurant, retailer), location, and projected annual turnover. Based on this information, the system will automatically determine which license you need: Basic Registration, State License, or Central License.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

After determining your eligibility, the portal will direct you to the appropriate application form. You will need to fill out Form A for Basic Registration or Form B for a State/Central License. Ensure you enter all information accurately, including the official business name, registered address, details of the authorized person, and the specific food categories (as per FSSAI guidelines) your business will handle. Any mistake in this form can lead to delays or rejection.

Step 3: Upload Food Business FSSAI Compliance Documents

This is a critical step where you must upload scanned copies of all the required documents. The portal will provide a checklist based on your license type. Ensure that all scans are clear, legible, and in the prescribed format (usually PDF or JPG). Double-check that you have uploaded every document mentioned in the list relevant to your business category to avoid back-and-forth communication with the FSSAI authorities.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Once the form is filled and documents are uploaded, you will be redirected to the payment gateway to pay the government fee. The fee depends on the type of license and the validity period you choose (you can apply for a license valid from 1 to 5 years). Payment can be made online using a credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.

Step 5: Submission and Follow-up

After successful payment, an Application Reference Number (ARN) will be generated. This number is extremely important, as you will use it to track the status of your application on the FoSCoS portal. The FSSAI department will now scrutinize your application and the uploaded documents. For State and Central licenses, an FSSAI-designated Food Safety Officer (FSO) may schedule a physical inspection of your business premises to verify that it complies with the required hygiene and safety standards.

Step 6: Receive Your FSSAI License

If the authorities are satisfied with your application, documents, and the inspection report (if applicable), they will approve your license. A digitally signed FSSAI license will be issued and made available for download in your FoSCoS account. You must print this license and display it prominently at your business premises at all times.

Conclusion

Securing an FSSAI license is a foundational and non-negotiable step for any food venture in India. By carefully identifying the right license type for your scale, meticulously preparing the required documents, and following the online application process on the FoSCoS portal, you can ensure your business is legally compliant from day one. Fulfilling the FSSAI license requirements for your food business is not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about building a brand that customers trust for safety, quality, and reliability in a competitive market.

The documentation and application process can sometimes feel complex, with specific requirements that can be tricky to navigate. Let the experts at TaxRobo manage your FSSAI registration seamlessly. Contact us today to get your food business licensed and ready for success!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the penalty for not having an FSSAI license in India?

Operating a food business without a valid FSSAI license is a serious offense. It can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to 6 months and a fine of up to ₹5 lakhs, depending on the nature of the violation.

Q2. Can I apply for an FSSAI license for my home-based food business?

Yes, absolutely. Most home-based food businesses, such as home bakers, tiffin services, or small-scale caterers with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs, are eligible for the FSSAI Basic Registration.

Q3. How long does it take to get an FSSAI license?

The timeline varies by license type. FSSAI Basic Registration is usually issued within 7-10 working days. State and Central licenses, which involve more detailed scrutiny and possible physical inspections, typically take 30-60 days for approval.

Q4. Do I need to renew my FSSAI license?

Yes, an FSSAI license is valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, as selected by you during the application. It is mandatory to renew the license by filing a renewal application at least 30 days before its expiry date to avoid late fees and penalties for non-renewal.

Q5. What is the difference between an FSSAI license and FSSAI registration?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different categories. FSSAI Registration refers to the Basic Registration required for small FBOs (turnover < ₹12 lakh). FSSAI License refers to the State License or Central License required for medium and large businesses. The documentation and compliance requirements for FSSAI license food industry India are significantly more stringent than those for basic registration.