Overview of FSSAI Registration
Food is a basic necessity, and its safety and quality are diligently regulated by the government of India. From ancient times, food safety has been one of the important concerns for the kings and the government. Today, food safety is regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, a central legislation enacted by the government of India in 2006 that consolidated all the regulations pertaining to food safety in India. FSSAI license is mandatory for all food businesses in India. It is not just a statutory requirement but is crucial for the long-term success of the business. The FSSAI license is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, an authority under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The authority was established on 5th September 2008 with the objective of maintaining scientific standards for food items to regulate their manufacturing, storing, and distribution, including sale and import. Registering your business with FSSAI has several benefits, such as building trust and credibility with customers, helping to improve the quality of food, giving business access to new markets, and gaining global recognition. If a person or business operator is found to be manufacturing, storing, distributing, selling or importing any food without an FSSAI certification license, the person or food operator shall be penalized with a fine that may extend up to Rs. 5 lakhs with imprisonment that may extend up to 6 months. FSSAI registration is a simple process that requires simple steps to be followed. Following the steps carefully and ensuring compliance post-registration can take your business to a new level of success.
What is an FSSAI License?
The FSSAI license is a certificate that all food businesses have to obtain in order to legally operate in India. The license is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Food businesses, including manufacturers, retailers, importers, and even small home-based food entrepreneurs, are required to register with the FSSAI or obtain a license based on the turnover and nature of the business.
The license is categorized into three main types:
- Basic Registration: The license is issued to small-scale food businesses which have an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs.
- State License: The license is issued to the medium-sized businesses which have an annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores.
- Central License: The license is issued to the large businesses, especially those involved in interstate trade, or those which have an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration in India
FSSAI is not just a statutory requirement but offers several benefits to companies. Some of the benefits include:
- Complying with statutory obligation: The foremost benefit of the obtaining a FSSAI license is that your business stays compliant with the statutory obligation as mandated under Section 31 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Not registering your food business with FSSAI will lead to hefty penalty of Rs. 5 lakhs with imprisonment that can extend up to 6 months.
- Better Brand Image: Companies registered with FSSAI have a good brand image and are considered reliable and reputable by customers. FSSAI license shows that your food business is following the safety regulations prescribed by FSSAI.
- Access to Market: FSSAI license is widely recognized and many supermarkets, retailers, and online business platforms have mandated their suppliers to have FSSAI license. The license acts as the official authorization by the government of India to operate as a food industry. Business registered with FSSAI are open to enter new market, sell their products to convenience stores and hypermarkets.
- Competitive Advantage: FSSAI registration helps your business to stand out in the large pool of market. A certified business enjoys better reputation in the market with FSSAI symbol and customers are more likely to choose products from the brands that are FSSAI registered.
- Support from government: FSSAI offers various resources and training programs to help businesses in understanding and implementing food safety regulations. FSSAI also provides guidelines to help businesses comply wit food safety standards along with labelling, packaging, and food processing.
Requirements for FSSAI Registration in India
FSSAI Registration is required for any food business operator (FBO) in India to ensure compliance with food safety laws. The registering process needs specific papers including documents, which are listed below:
- Identity Proof of the Proprietor/Partners/Directors: Government-issued image ID, which includes PAN card, Aadhaar card, or Voter ID card.
- Address Proof of the Business Premises: Rent agreement, lease agreement, or utility bills like electricity bill, water bill, bank account, or condominium settlement as deal with proof.
- Food Category and Business Activity Details: Details of the food category to be made and the list of food categories.
- Layout Plan of the Business Premises: A plan of the working unit showing the measurements and operation-wise area allotment.
- List of Equipment Used Inside the Business: A detailed list of all the equipment and gear used, together with the variety and total capability.
- NOC from the owner/Partners/Directors: A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the proprietor, companions, or administrators.
- Permission Letter: A permission letter in the name of the person who is allowed to sign the application form for FSSAI registration.
- Bank Account Details: Details of the bank account, including account name and IFSC code of the business.
The papers may change based on the type of FBO and the makeup of the business. For example, hotels, restaurants, food serving places, and clubs/canteens may need to present an analysis report of water (chemical and bacteriological) to be used as an ingredient in food from a recognized/public laboratory.
FBOs must ensure they have all the necessary papers before applying for FSSAI Registration. Incomplete or wrong paperwork may lead to delays or rejection of the registration application.
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Registration in India
FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food businesses in India, and the level of registration depends upon the scale and nature of the business's operation. The eligibility criteria for FSSAI Registration or FSSAI license are defined under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 as:
FSSAI Registration type |
Eligibility Criteria |
Applicable for |
Basic Registration |
Businesses that have an annual turnover up to Rs. 12 lakhs. |
Small-scale food businesses like home-based producers, food vendors, grocery stores, small caterers. |
State License |
Businesses that have an annual turnover ranging from Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores. |
Medium-scale businesses, food manufactures, wholesalers, caterers operating in a single state, Hotels, Restaurants, and large food retailers. |
Central License |
Businesses that have an annual turnover more than Rs. 20 crores. |
Large-scale businesses with national or international operations, importers, exporters, and e-commerce platforms |
Specific License/Approvals |
Businesses dealing with specialized products like importers, exporters, processors |
Food importers, exporters, and specific processors like meat, dairy, alcohol, etc. |
Required Documents for FSSAI Registration in India
The following papers are needed for FSSAI Registration:
Identity Proof:
Identity proof is a vital paper needed for FSSAI Registration. It is used to prove the name of the applicant(s) in the food business. The following identifying papers are allowed for FSSAI Registration:
- PAN card: Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is a required record for FSSAI Registration. It is given by the Income Tax Department and includes name, picture, and signature of the candidate.
- Aadhaar card: Aadhaar card is a unique identification number given by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It includes name, picture, and biometric details of the candidate.
- Passport: A passport is a legal identity proof for foreign people seeking FSSAI Registration in India.
Address Proof:
Address proof is another important paper needed for FSSAI Registration. It is used to set the location of the food business. The following address records are allowed for FSSAI Registration:
- Utility bill: A recent utility bill such as power, water, or gas bill can be used as address proof.
- Bank statement: A recent bank statement with the address of the food business can be used as address proof.
- Rent agreement: A rent agreement or lease agreement can be used as address proof if the food business is run from rented premises.
Trademark Representation:
If the food business uses a trademark, a clear and correct picture of the brand is needed for FSSAI Registration. The brand image should be in a style that can be easily copied and identified. The following forms are allowed for trademark representation:
- Logo: If the food company has a logo and uses it as its trademark, a clear and exact photo of the emblem should be given.
- Word mark: If the food company employs a word mark as its trademark, the word mark should be displayed in a clear and readable way.
Classification Details:
Classification information are needed for FSSAI Registration if the food business uses a brand. The classification details provide information about the proper class for the brand, based on the food items or services it represents. The FSSAI has divided food goods and services into 45 different groups. The candidate should choose the class that best represents the food goods or services given by the food business. The classification information should be provided along with the brand image and other necessary papers for FSSAI Registration.
Checklist for FSSAI Registration
Here is a plan for FSSAI Registration:
- Brand Selection: Choose a unique and striking brand that represents your food business.
- Class Identification: Identify the proper class for your brand based on the food items or services it represents.
- Application Preparation: Prepare the FSSAI Registration application with correct and full details.
- Document Submission: Submit all necessary documents, including:
- Identity Proof of the Proprietor/Partners/Directors
- Address Proof of the Business Premises
- Food Category and Business Activity Details
- Layout Plan of the Business Premises
- List of Equipment Used in the Business
- NOC from the Proprietor/Partners/Directors
- Authority Letter
- Bank Account Details
The papers needed for FSSAI Registration may change based on the type of business, sales, and production ability. For example, hotels, restaurants, food serving places, and clubs/canteens may need to present an analysis report of water (chemical and bacteriological) to be used as an ingredient in food from a recognized/public laboratory.
It is important to ensure that all papers are self-attested by the authorities' signatory/proprietor before being posted on the FoSCoS site. The FSSAI Registration procedure is controlled by the Food Safety & Standards (Licensing & Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
Process of FSSAI Registration in India
The FSSAI Registration process includes the following steps:
- Select Brand: Choose a unique and striking brand that represents your food business. The brand should be easily recognizable and should not infringe on the intellectual property of any existing brand. It is pertinent to note that your food business has to comply with all regulations.
- Class Identification: Identify the proper class for your brand based on the food items or services it represents. The FSSAI has divided food goods and services into 45 different groups. Choose the class that best suits your food business.
- Application Preparation: Prepare the FSSAI Registration application with correct and complete information about:
- Type of FSSAI Registration
- Business Details
- Information about the Owner and Partner
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
- Detail of the premises
- Food safety training and certification
- Document Submission: Submit all necessary papers and documents, including address proof, etc. You need to self-attest the following documents:
- Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driver's License.
- Photographs
- Utility bills (electricity, water), Rent agreement, or Property tax receipt (if the business is located on the premises)
- Certificate of Incorporation (for companies) or the Partnership Deed (for partnerships)
- GST certificate
- Authorization Letter, if it exists
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) certificate
- Submit application:Once, you fill the application, pay the fees, cross-check all the details, submit the application and application shall be processed by Designated Officer of FSSAI.
- Examination: The FSSAI officials will examine the application for novelty, registrability, and possible clashes with existing trademarks. The officials may ask for extra information or explanations during the testing process.
- Publication: If accepted, the name is published in the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Journal for public review. 30 days are given to the public to complain about the registration of the brand.
- Registration:Upon successful examination and release, the brand is registered with FSSAI, giving legal protection and exclusive rights to the business.
The FSSAI Registration process is necessary for any food business operator (FBO) in India. The process ensures that food items are safe, healthy, and fit for human usage. It also gives legal security and exclusive rights to the registered brand. FBOs should ensure that they follow the FSSAI Registration process carefully to escape legal action and fine.
FSSAI License Compliance
FSSAI registration is a vital condition for food companies in India, overseen by the Food Safety & Standards Authority. It is necessary for all organizations involved in food production, transportation, import or export. and sale to receive FSSAI registration is based on business size and nature of the activities being carried out. The registered businesses receiver a 14-digit number and a bar code visible on food packages, ensuring responsibility for food quality. Failure to obey can lead to fines, including license suspension.
Businesses having turnover of more than Rs. 12 lakhs can apply for FSSAI license. To change registration to a license, businesses have to gather needed papers, and send an exact application with the fee to the assigned FSSAI Regional Office. The officials review applications, perform checks, and give a unique license number upon acceptance.
FSSAI License Renewal
FSSAI Registration must be updated before its end date to keep legitimacy of the business. The renewal process includes sending a renewed application and paying the necessary fees. The duration of FSSAI Registration is between 1-5 years, based on the type of registration.
For Basic FSSAI Registration, renewing should be done before the end date to avoid delays. State and Central FSSAI Licenses are usually good for the term chosen during the original application. The renewed application process can be finished online through the FSSAI website and required papers, such as name proof, address proof, a food safety management plan, a list of food products worked with, and proof of previous FSSAI licence, must be provided. Failure to update the FSSAI Registration before the end date may result in fines and loss of the license.
Why Choose Kanakkupillai?
Kanakkupillai is a trusted choice for FSSAI Registration services due to its vast knowledge, personalized approach, and quick support. We offer options and solutions for FSSAI Registration Online, FSSAI Registration in India, Food License Registration, FSSAI License Registration, and FoSCoS Registration Online.
Our team of professionals ensures an easy and efficient registration process designed to meet unique needs and requirements of clients. With 24X7 support, companies can finish their FSSAI Registration on time and without trouble. Our services are not limited to registration only, we cater our services to do post registration compliances and guide you at every step so that you don’t miss out on anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI Registration is a law requirement for food companies in India, ensuring compliance with food safety rules.How long does FSSAI Registration take in India?
FSSAI Registration takes approximately 20-30 days, based on the type of registration and the difficulty of the application.What are the perks of FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI Registration offers legal compliance, company image, access to market, and security against legal action.What should I do if my FSSAI Registration is infringed upon?
If your FSSAI Registration is infringed upon, take civil action against the guilty party, seek an order, and demand damages or account of profits.What is the cost of FSSAI Registration in India?
The cost of FSSAI Registration in India changes based on the type of registration and the difficulty of the application.Can I file for FSSAI Registration online in India?
Yes, FSSAI Registration can be done online through the FoSCoS site.How do I check the availability of a brand for FSSAI Registration in India?
The existence of a brand for FSSAI Registration in India can be checked through the FSSAI website or the FoSCoS platform.What is the process for FSSAI Registration in India?
The method for FSSAI Registration in India includes application preparation, document submission, application filing, evaluation, release, and registration.What papers are needed for FSSAI Registration in India?
The papers needed for FSSAI Registration in India include name proof, address proof, brand representation, and classification information.How can I update my FSSAI Registration in India?
FSSAI Registration can be renewed online through the FoSCoS site before its expiry date.What makes Us Different

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