FSSAI Registration & License Online

Nowadays Starting or running a food business in India? At Farmer level Food Business, we simplify your journey by providing seamless FSSAI Registration and Licensing services entirely online. Whether you’re a small-scale food vendor, a manufacturer, distributor, or a large-scale enterprise, obtaining an FSSAI license is a legal requirement and a mark of trust for your consumers.

Our expert team make sure quick, hassle-free, and 100% compliant FSSAI certification tailored to your business needs. With a commitment to transparency, affordability, and timely delivery, Farmer Food Business is the go-to platform for entrepreneurs who value convenience and compliance.

Take the first step toward building a credible and legally sound food business partner with Farmer Food Business and get FSSAI certified today!

Types of FSSAI Licenses

FSSAI offers three distinct categories of licenses tailored to the business’s scale, operational type, and yearly financial turnover. Food enterprises earning more than ₹20 crores annually, or those involved in importing, exporting, or operating in more than one state, must secure a Central FSSAI License. It’s important to apply for the right one to stay compliant and avoid future legal hassles.

1. Basic FSSAI Registration (Form A)

FSSAI Form A is the simplest form of food safety registration required for small-scale food businesses in India. It is mandatory for food operators whose annual turnover does not exceed ₹12 lakhs, such as small food vendors, homemade food units, petty retailers, and temporary stall holders. The registration is granted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to safeguard that even the smallest food businesses comply with basic hygiene and safety standards. The process involves submitting FSSAI Form A along with supporting documents like identity proof, business details, and passport-sized photographs with 75% face and White Back ground. Once approved, the business receives a unique 14-digit FSSAI registration number, which must be displayed on all food packages or at the place of business. This registration not only ensures legal compliance but also builds consumer trust in the quality and safety of the food being offered.

Home-based food sellers
Small retailers
Cottage food producers
Petty food businesses
Temporary stall vendors

Key Features:

Issued by the local state authority
Simple online application (Form A)
Fast approval, usually without inspection

2. FSSAI State License (Form B)

FSSAI Form B is required for medium-sized food businesses operating within a single state and having an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores. This license is issued by the state government and is applicable to businesses such as food manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, and distributors that meet the specified turnover and scale criteria. To apply, businesses must submit FSSAI Form B along with necessary documents like business registration proof, layout plans, food safety management system plan, and identity/address proof of the proprietors or directors. The license ensures that the business adheres to the food safety standards laid out by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Holding an FSSAI State License enhances credibility, improves consumer confidence, and is a legal necessity for lawful operations in the food sector.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

Medium-sized restaurants
Mid-level food processors
Warehouses and transporters
Hotels and canteens
Manufacturing units (within one state)

Key Features:

Issued by the state government
Requires FSMS plan and more documentation
May involve inspection by a Food Safety Officer

3. FSSAI Central License (Form B)

Central License (FSSAI Form B) is mandatory for large-scale food businesses and operators complex in food processing, manufacturing, import, export, or distribution with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores or operating in multiple states. It is issued by the Central Government under the regulations of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This license is essential for units like large manufacturers, 100% export-oriented units, importers, airport caterers, and food chains operating across India. The application requires the submission of Form B along with detailed documentation such as a business registration certificate, food safety management plan, layout plans, list of directors/partners, and proof of premises. The FSSAI Central License ensures strict compliance with national food safety standards and boosts the reputation and reliability of the business, especially in domestic and international markets.

Common Businesses That Need It:

Importers/exporters of food
Food manufacturers with large-scale production
Chains operating in more than one state
Airports and seaports handling food

Key Features:

Issued by the central FSSAI authority
Requires detailed documentation and strict compliance
Often subject to site inspections

Comparison Table

Feature	Basic Registration	State License	Central License
Annual Turnover	Up to ₹12 lakhs	₹12 lakhs to ₹20 cr	Above ₹20 crores
Application Form	Form A	Form B	Form B
Issuing Authority	Local Municipal Body	State FSSAI	Central FSSAI
Validity	1 to 5 years	1 to 5 years	1 to 5 years
Inspection	Not usually required	May be required	Mandatory
Use Case	Small sellers/kitchens	Restaurants/warehouses	Large manufacturers

Process of Online FSSAI Registration

Registering your food business is easier than ever thanks to the FOSCOS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in and click on “Apply for License/Registration.”

Step 2: Create an Account

Step 3: Select Application Form

Use Form A for Basic Registration
Use Form B for State or Central License

Step 4: Fill in Business Details

You’ll need to enter:

Business name and location
Contact details
Type of food products
Nature of business

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload soft copies (PDF/JPEG) of all required documents.

Step 6: Fee Payment

Pay the application fee online via net banking, debit card, or UPI.

Step 7: Wait for Approval

Your application will be reviewed. A food safety officer might inspect your premises (especially for State/Central licenses).

Step 8: Download License

Once approved, download your license directly from the portal. The license contains a 14-digit FSSAI number.

Detailed Document Checklist for FSSAI Registration & License

Organizing your documents properly is key to ensuring a hassle free and efficient application process. Below is a comprehensive list based on the type of license you apply for.

Documents Required for Basic Registration

Passport-size photo of applicant
Government-issued Photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.)
Address proof of business premises
Details of food products handled
Declaration form (signed)

Document Required for State License

All documents from Basic Registration
FSMS Plan (Food Safety Management System)
Blueprint/layout plan of processing unit
List of directors/partners/proprietors
Proof of turnover (GST returns, balance sheet)
Equipment list used in food production
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from local authority

Document Required for Central License

All documents from State License
Import/export code (IEC) for importers/exporters
Ministry of Commerce certificate (for 100% EOU units)
Certificate from Ministry of Tourism (if applicable)
Proof of business across states (in case of multi-state operations)

FSSAI Fees Structure

Your FSSAI license cost depends on the type of license and the number of years you choose (1 to 5 years).

Basic Registration Fees

₹100 per year

State License Fees

₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (based on food category and production capacity)

Central License Fees

₹7,500 per year

Additional Charges

Late renewal penalty: ₹100 per day
Modification: Depends on request
Duplicate license: Nominal fee (₹100–₹200)

Validity and Renewal of FSSAI License

Your FSSAI license is valid for 1 to 5 years depending on what you select during application. Here’s how to manage renewal:

When to Renew

You must renew at least 30 days before expiry. Failing to do so attracts a penalty and may even require a fresh application.

Renewal Process (Online)

Log in to FOSCOS Portal
Go to “Renew License/Registration”
Select license and number of years
Upload any updated documents
Pay renewal fees
Await approval/download certificate

How to Check FSSAI License Status Online

You can easily track the status of your application or license validity:

Steps to Check Status

Visit https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Click on “Track Application Status”
Enter your Application Reference Number (ARN) or License Number
View current status, inspection updates, or rejection info

Modification and Update of FSSAI License

Businesses often evolve maybe you changed your location, added new products, or altered ownership. Luckily, you can update your license without starting from scratch.

When Modification is Needed

Change in business address
Addition/removal of food categories
Change in ownership or management
Capacity expansion

Steps to Modify License

Log in to FOSCOS
Click “Modify License”
Select reason and update information
Upload relevant documents
Pay applicable fee
Await FSSAI approval

Responsibilities of FSSAI License Holders

Once you get your license, it doesn’t end there. FSSAI license holders must maintain ongoing compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Maintain hygiene and safety as per Schedule 4 of FSS Act
Use proper labelling and packaging
Submit annual returns (for manufacturers and importers)
Permit inspections by Food Safety Officers
Avoid usage of banned substances

What Happens If You Don’t Register?

Operating a food business without an FSSAI license is illegal and risky.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Fine of up to ₹5 lakhs
Closure of business
Seizure of food products
Imprisonment up to 6 months (for serious offenses)

Don’t take the risk FSSAI registration is both a legal necessity and a quality marker.

FSSAI for E-Commerce and Online Food Businesses

E-Commerce and Online Food Businesses is a key compliance requirement for all digital platforms involved in selling, distributing, or delivering food products. This includes online food aggregators, cloud kitchens, food delivery apps, and individual food sellers operating through websites or marketplaces. As per FSSAI guidelines, such businesses must obtain either a State or Central License, depending on their scale and turnover, to legally operate in India. The license ensures that the online food business maintains proper hygiene, safety, and quality standards as mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It also builds consumer trust by ensuring transparency and accountability in food handling and delivery processes. Without a valid FSSAI license, operating an online food business can lead to legal penalties and damage to brand reputation.

License for Platforms Like Swiggy and Zomato

Must have Central License as e-commerce operator
Onboard only FSSAI-registered food partners
Display FSSAI numbers on menu/listings

License for Online Sellers

Individual food sellers on e-commerce must hold valid FSSAI license
Must comply with labelling, safety, and traceability guidelines

Role of Food Safety Officers (FSOs)

Food Safety Officers (FSOs) play a important role in safeguarding that food businesses comply with the standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). They are responsible for inspecting food establishments, collecting samples, verifying hygiene and safety practices, and ensuring that proper licenses and registrations are in place. FSOs have the authority to issue improvement notices, recommend license suspension or cancellation, and take legal action against violations of food safety norms. Their work helps prevent the sale of adulterated, unsafe, or mislabeled food products, thereby protecting public health. By enforcing compliance and conducting regular checks, Food Safety Officers act as a crucial link between regulatory authorities and food business operators, ensuring that food served to consumers is safe, hygienic, and of high quality.

Food Safety Management System (FSMS) and FSSAI

The Food Safety Management System (FSMS) is a structured approach mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure that food businesses consistently produce and handle food that is safe for consumption. FSMS includes the implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Hygiene Practices (GHP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and other preventive controls that help identify, monitor, and manage food safety risks at every stage of the supply chain. Under FSSAI regulations, food business operators are required to adopt an FSMS plan appropriate to the nature and size of their operations. This plan must be documented and regularly reviewed to ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement. By integrating FSMS, food businesses not only meet legal requirements but also demonstrate a commitment to food quality and consumer safety, which in turn enhances brand credibility and trust.

Common Mistakes During Registration

Avoid these blunders that can lead to rejections or delays:

Submitting the wrong form (A instead of B)
Skipping required documents
Not selecting correct food categories
Delaying fee payment
Forgetting to renew before expiry

How to Appeal Against License Rejection

If your FSSAI license application is rejected, you have the right to appeal against the decision through a formal process. As per the guidelines of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the appeal must be made within 15 days from the date of license rejection. Here’s how to proceed:

Review the Rejection Reason: Carefully check the reason for rejection mentioned by the licensing authority. It may be due to incomplete documentation, incorrect information, or non-compliance with FSSAI norms.
Rectify the Issues: Address the specific reasons cited in the rejection. Prepare all necessary documents and ensure that your application complies with FSSAI requirements.
File an Appeal: Submit your appeal to the Designated Officer (DO) of the concerned FSSAI regional office. The appeal should be in writing, clearly stating your case and including supporting documents.
Further Escalation: If the appeal is not resolved satisfactorily at the DO level, you may escalate the matter to the Food Safety Commissioner or file a petition in the Appellate Tribunal under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Timely and accurate response is crucial. Seeking help from a professional or legal expert experienced in FSSAI matters can also improve your chances of a successful appeal

Importance of Training and Certification

FSSAI mandates FOSTAC (Food Safety Training & Certification) for certain food handlers.

Benefits of Training

Better hygiene and handling practices
Reduced chances of contamination
Builds credibility with customers and regulators

Training is conducted through certified partners and institutes across India.

International Compliance for Exporters

Planning to export your food products abroad? You’ll need to align with both FSSAI and global standards.

Additional Requirements

Import Export Code (IEC)
HACCP/ISO certifications
Packaging & labelling standards (per destination country)
Testing in NABL-accredited labs

Offline FSSAI Registration (When Applicable)

Though FOSCOS handles 99% of applications online, some rural or remote businesses may still file applications offline through:

District Designated Officers
State Licensing Authorities
FSSAI regional offices

Paper applications are then processed manually, which may take more time.

Professional Help for FSSAI Registration

Why Hire a consultant?

Experts handle documentation, form filling, and error correction
Save time and avoid rejections
Get guidance for license upgrades and renewals

Cost of Services

Typically, ₹999 to ₹5000 depending on complexity, number of branches, and consultancy package.

Conclusion

Getting an FSSAI Registration or License is not just a legal formality—it’s a powerful trust badge for your food business. Whether you’re a home cook, restaurant owner, food aggregator, or importer, the right license brings credibility, compliance, and growth opportunities.

The process might seem complicated at first, but thanks to the FOSCOS online portal, registering your food business has never been easier. Just follow the steps, submit the right documents, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a legitimate player in India’s thriving food ecosystem.

FAQs

Is FSSAI registration mandatory for home-based food businesses?
Yes, even home kitchens require Basic Registration if you sell food commercially.
What is the validity period of an FSSAI license?
You can choose between 1 to 5 years during application.
Can I apply for an FSSAI license offline?
Yes, but online application via FOSCOS is preferred and faster.
How long does it take to get the license?
Basic licenses: 7–10 days. State/Central: 30–60 days depending on inspection.
Is the FSSAI license transferable?
No, you must reapply if the ownership changes.
Can I change details on my FSSAI license?
Yes, use the “Modify License” option in FOSCOS to update details.
Do I need separate licenses for multiple outlets?
Yes, each location requires a separate license.
Can I use the FSSAI logo on my product?
Yes, if you have a valid license, it helps build trust.
What if I miss the renewal date?
You’ll pay ₹100/day late fee. After expiry, you’ll need to reapply.
Do food bloggers or YouTubers need a license?
Only if they sell or distribute food products.
How do I find my FSSAI license number?
It’s a 14-digit number on your certificate and food labels.
Is FSSAI license required for pet food?
Yes, all food products (including pet food) need licensing.
Do I need GST for FSSAI registration?
It’s not mandatory, but helpful to prove turnover.
How do I know which license I need?
It depends on your turnover and business type—Basic, State, or Central.
What happens during FSSAI inspection?
FSOs check hygiene, equipment, documents, and food handling.
Can I cancel my FSSAI license?
Yes, you can voluntarily surrender it via FOSCOS.
What is an FSMS plan?
A Food Safety Management System document showing your food safety practices.
Is NOC from municipality required?
Often for State/Central licenses, depending on the region.
Can one person hold multiple FSSAI licenses?
Yes, if managing different units/locations.
Can I register under a firm or LLP?
Absolutely, just provide incorporation certificates and partner details.

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