FSSAI License for Ayurvedic Food Products

1. Introduction: Why FSSAI License Is Essential for Ayurvedic Food Businesses

If you’re running or planning to launch an Ayurvedic food business in India — whether it’s herbal powders, immunity-boosting tonics, organic churna (herbal mixtures), or functional foods like Ashwagandha laddoos or Triphala chutney — one thing is non-negotiable:

👉 You need an FSSAI License.

Yes, even if your product is “natural,” “herbal,” or “Ayurvedic.” The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) treats all food items — including those derived from traditional medicine — as regulated food under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

That means no matter how ancient or “pure” your recipe may be, if it’s meant for consumption, it must comply with food safety standards.

What Is FSSAI? A Quick Overview

The FSSAI is India’s apex regulatory body responsible for ensuring that all food sold in the country is safe, wholesome, and labeled correctly.

It sets science-based standards for:

Food composition
Hygiene and manufacturing practices
Packaging and labeling
Additives and preservatives
Traceability and recall mechanisms

And yes — this includes Ayurvedic food products, which are often marketed as health supplements but fall under the definition of “food” when consumed orally.

❗️Important: Even if your product claims to support digestion, immunity, or energy, it cannot be sold without an FSSAI license — unless it’s strictly classified as a drug (which requires approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, CDSCO).

So if you’re selling:

Herbal teas
Churnas (powders)
Ghee infused with herbs
Energy bars made with ashwagandha or tulsi
Organic detox drinks

→ Then FSSAI registration/license is mandatory.

Why This Matters for Your Business

Without proper FSSAI licensing, your business risks:

Being shut down by authorities
Facing heavy fines (up to ₹10 lakh)
Legal action and public scrutiny
Inability to sell on e-commerce platforms (Amazon, Flipkart, Nykaa, etc.)
Loss of customer trust

On the flip side, getting your FSSAI license for Ayurvedic food products opens doors to:

Legally operating across India
Building brand credibility
Expanding into retail and online markets
Attracting investors and partners

In short: FSSAI isn’t just a formality — it’s your business passport into the Indian food market.

Let’s dive deeper into what exactly this license entails, who needs it, and how to get it right.

✅ Next Up: Section 2 – What Exactly Is an FSSAI License?
(We’ll define the types of licenses, clarify confusion between FSSAI Registration vs License, and explain why Ayurvedic food falls under FSSAI)

2. What Exactly Is an FSSAI License? Understanding the Basics

Before applying, it’s crucial to understand what an FSSAI license actually is — and why it matters for Ayurvedic food businesses.

Definition: What Is an FSSAI License?

An FSSAI License is a legal permit issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India that allows any individual or company to manufacture, process, pack, store, distribute, or sell food products in India.

It ensures that:

The food is safe for human consumption
Manufacturing processes meet hygiene standards
Labeling complies with FSSAI rules
All ingredients are declared and traceable

Think of it as a food safety passport — required for every food business, regardless of size or type.

Types of FSSAI Licenses (Which One Do You Need?)

There are three main categories of FSSAI authorization, based on annual turnover and scale of operation:

Type	When Required	Annual Turnover Limit	Validity
FSSAI Registration (Basic)	Small-scale operators	Up to ₹12 lakh/year	1 year
FSSAI State License	Medium-sized units	₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore/year	1–5 years
FSSAI Central License	Large-scale manufacturers/distributors	Above ₹20 crore/year	1–5 years

✅ For most Ayurvedic food startups and SMEs, the State License is typically required.

But here’s the catch: Even small brands making herbal powders or tonics must register if they plan to sell beyond their home kitchen.

Let’s clarify something important:

🔹 FSSAI Registration ≠ FSSAI License

Registration: For businesses with turnover < ₹12 lakh/year

License: For higher-volume producers, processors, or distributors

For example:

A home-based entrepreneur selling Tulsi tea packets at local markets? → FSSAI Registration
A startup packaging Ashwagandha gummies for nationwide delivery? → FSSAI State License

📌 Key Takeaway: If your Ayurvedic food product is packaged and sold commercially, you need either FSSAI Registration or License — not optional.

Why Ayurvedic Food Products Fall Under FSSAI

Even though Ayurveda is rooted in tradition, the FSSAI considers any edible substance intended for human consumption as “food.”

This includes:

Herbs used in cooking (like turmeric, ginger, neem)
Dried roots, seeds, and extracts
Mixtures consumed daily (e.g., Chyawanprash, Panchakarma tonics)
Functional foods claiming wellness benefits

As long as your product is:

Consumed orally
Sold in packaged form
Marketed for health, energy, immunity, or digestion

→ It falls under FSSAI jurisdiction.

⚠️ Exception: Only if your product is classified as a medicinal drug (with therapeutic claims like “treats diabetes”) and registered with CDSCO, then FSSAI may not apply. But most Ayurvedic food brands avoid such claims to stay within food regulations.

So, yes — your Ayurvedic food product needs an FSSAI license.

✅ Next Up: Section 3 – Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI License for Ayurvedic Food Products

3. Eligibility Criteria: Who Needs an FSSAI License for Ayurvedic Food?

Not everyone needs an FSSAI license — but most Ayurvedic food entrepreneurs do.

Here’s how to determine if your business qualifies:

✅ Who Must Get an FSSAI License?

You need an FSSAI license if your Ayurvedic food business involves any of these activities:

Activity	Requires FSSAI License?	Notes
Manufacturing herbal powders (churna)	✅ Yes	Even if made at home
Processing dried herbs (e.g., ashwagandha root)	✅ Yes	If sold commercially
Packaging ready-to-eat Ayurvedic snacks (laddoos, murukku)	✅ Yes	Assembled in bulk
Selling branded herbal teas or infusions	✅ Yes	Packaged & distributed
Exporting Ayurvedic food items	✅ Yes	International trade requires full compliance
E-commerce sales (Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy Instamart)	✅ Yes	Platforms require FSSAI proof

💡 Pro Tip: Even if you’re a sole proprietor or run a micro-enterprise, FSSAI registration is still mandatory if you sell packaged goods.

❌ Who Does NOT Need an FSSAI License?

Only very limited cases are exempt:

Home-based cooks preparing food for personal use only (no sale)
Farmers selling raw, unprocessed herbs directly from farm
Traditional healers dispensing herbs in consultation-only settings (not packaged or sold)

⚠️ Once you start packaging, branding, and selling, even casually, FSSAI applies.

Common Misconceptions About Ayurvedic Foods & FSSAI

Let’s clear up some myths:

Myth	Reality
“Since it’s Ayurvedic, I don’t need FSSAI”	False. All food products are regulated.
“Only packaged food needs FSSAI”	Partially true — but even loose-packed items sold in shops may need compliance.
“I can use ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ to bypass FSSAI”	No. These terms don’t override food safety laws.
“My product is a supplement, so CDSCO is enough”	Not unless it makes medical claims. Most Ayurvedic food items are treated as food.

📌 Bottom Line: No exceptions for Ayurvedic food products — if it’s sold as food, it needs FSSAI.

✅ Next Up: Section 4 – Types of FSSAI Licenses for Ayurvedic Food Businesses

4. Types of FSSAI Licenses for Ayurvedic Food Businesses

Choosing the right FSSAI license depends on your business size, location, and production volume.

Let’s break down the three types clearly:

1. FSSAI Registration (Basic – Form A)

For: Small-scale units, home-based entrepreneurs, kirana stores, street vendors
Turnover limit: Up to ₹12 lakh/year
Application: Online via FSSAI portal (Form A)
Validity: 1 year
Fee: ₹100 (basic registration)
Documents needed: PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, bank details

✅ Ideal for: Home chefs making Gudhara Churna, Tulsi Drops, or Neem Candy for local sale.

2. FSSAI State License (Form B)

For: Medium-sized manufacturers, processors, packers, distributors
Turnover limit: ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore/year
Application: Online via FSSAI portal (Form B)
Validity: 1–5 years (choose duration during application)
Fee: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 (depending on state and processing capacity)
Documents needed: Company PAN, GSTIN, incorporation certificate, factory layout, list of machinery, lab test reports (for certain products)

✅ Ideal for: Startups producing Ashwagandha Energy Bars, Triphala Syrup, or Herbal Tea Mixes for wider distribution.

3. FSSAI Central License (Form C)

For: Large-scale manufacturers, exporters, multi-state operations
Turnover limit: Above ₹20 crore/year
Application: Directly through FSSAI Central Office (or via State Authority)
Validity: 1–5 years
Fee: ₹7,500 + additional charges for large plants
Documents needed: Detailed plant layout, quality control system, third-party lab reports, export agreements

✅ Ideal for: Established Ayurvedic brands exporting Chyawanprash or Shatavari Capsules globally.

📌 Quick Decision Guide:

Making small batches at home? → FSSAI Registration

Running a kitchen/production unit with monthly sales > ₹1 lakh? → FSSAI State License

Exporting or operating in multiple states? → FSSAI Central License

💡 Bonus Tip: You can upgrade from Registration to License later — no penalty. But starting wrong could delay approvals.

✅ Next Up: Section 5 – Documents Required for FSSAI License for Ayurvedic Food Products

5. Documents Required for FSSAI License – Checklist for Ayurvedic Food Brands

Applying for FSSAI is simple — but only if you have all the correct documents ready.

Here’s a complete, verified checklist tailored for Ayurvedic food product businesses:

✅ Mandatory Documents (All Cases)

Document	Purpose	Notes
PAN Card of Applicant	Identity verification	Individual or company PAN
Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / Passport	Address proof	Must match business address
Proof of Business Address	Location verification	Electricity bill, rent agreement, NOC from landlord
Bank Account Details	Payment and KYC	Cancelled cheque or bank statement
List of Raw Materials Used	Ingredient disclosure	Include herbs, spices, sweeteners, additives
Product Description & Formula	To assess safety	Specify quantities and sources

✅ Additional Documents Based on Business Type

For FSSAI Registration (Home-Based Units)

No need for GSTIN
No factory layout required
No lab reports needed (unless requested)

For FSSAI State License (Manufacturing/Packaging Units)

GSTIN (required if turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh)
Certificate of Incorporation (for LLP, Pvt Ltd, Co-op)
Factory Layout Plan (showing storage, processing, packaging zones)
List of Machinery & Equipment (e.g., grinders, dryers, packaging machines)
Third-Party Lab Test Reports (for heavy metals, pesticides, microbial load) – Highly Recommended
Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Manual (optional but preferred)

📌 Lab Testing is Crucial for Ayurvedic Products
Since herbs can contain contaminants (lead, arsenic, mercury), lab reports are strongly advised — especially for:

Root-based products (ashwagandha, shatavari)

Powdered blends (churnas)

Extracts and syrups

🔎 Example: A Brahmi Churna sample tested positive for lead → immediate rejection of FSSAI application.

✅ Best Practice: Get your first batch tested by NABL-accredited labs (e.g., Agmark, SGS, Intertek).

✅ Optional but Helpful Documents

Document	Benefit
Trademark Registration	Builds brand value; supports application
ISO 22000 Certification	Shows advanced food safety management
Organic Certification (e.g., USDA, India Organic)	Boosts credibility for premium buyers
Export License (IEC Code)	Needed for international shipments

📌 Tip: Always keep digital copies of all documents — you may need to upload them during application.

✅ Next Up: Section 6 – Step-by-Step FSSAI License Application Process (Online)

6. Step-by-Step FSSAI License Application Process (Online)

Applying for FSSAI is now fully digital — no more paperwork headaches.

Here’s how to do it in 8 easy steps:

🔹 Step 1: Visit the Official FSSAI Portal

Go to: https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in

Click on “New Registration/License” → Choose “Apply Online”

🔹 Step 2: Select the Correct Category

Choose based on your business:

FSSAI Registration (for turnover ≤ ₹12 lakh)
FSSAI State License (for turnover ₹12L–₹20Cr)
FSSAI Central License (for turnover > ₹20Cr)

📌 Pro Tip: Use the FSSAI Eligibility Checker Tool on the portal to confirm your category.

🔹 Step 3: Fill in Basic Details

Provide:

Name of applicant (individual/LLP/Private Ltd)
Contact info (email, mobile)
Business type (manufacturer, processor, distributor, etc.)
Nature of food (Ayurvedic herbal food, dietary supplement, etc.)

🔹 Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Attach scanned copies of:

PAN card
Aadhaar
Address proof
GSTIN (if applicable)
Factory layout (for State/Central License)
Lab test reports (recommended)

📌 File Format: PDF/JPEG (max 2MB per file)

🔹 Step 5: Pay the Fee Online

FSSAI Registration: ₹100
FSSAI State License: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 (varies by state)
FSSAI Central License: ₹7,500+

Payment modes: Net banking, UPI, credit/debit card

🔹 Step 6: Submit & Receive Acknowledgment

After submission, you’ll get:

Application Reference Number (ARN)
Date of Application
Status tracking link

📌 Save this ARN — you’ll need it for follow-ups.

🔹 Step 7: Verification & Inspection (If Required)

For State License, an inspector may visit your premises.
They’ll check:
Sanitation
Storage conditions
Labeling accuracy
Hygiene practices

⏱️ Inspection timing: Usually within 30 days of application

🔹 Step 8: Receive Your FSSAI License

Once approved:

You’ll receive the FSSAI License Number via email/SMS
Download the digital copy from the portal
Display the license number prominently on packaging and website

🕒 Average Time to Approval:

FSSAI Registration: 1–7 days

FSSAI State License: 7–30 days

FSSAI Central License: 30–60 days

✅ Pro Tip: Apply early — delays can impact product launches or e-commerce listings.

✅ Next Up: Section 7 – Post-License Compliance for Ayurvedic Food Businesses

7. Post-License Compliance: Staying FSSAI-Compliant After Getting Licensed

Getting the license is just the beginning. Ongoing compliance is critical to avoid penalties, audits, or cancellation.

Here’s what you must do:

✅ 1. Display FSSAI License Number Clearly

On every product package
On your website homepage
In product descriptions
On e-commerce listings

📌 Format: FSSAI License No.: 123456789012

✅ 2. Maintain Accurate Records

Keep digital records of:

Production logs
Ingredient sourcing
Lab test results
Batch-wise tracking
Customer complaints

🔐 Best practice: Use a simple Excel sheet or cloud-based software.

✅ 3. Renew on Time

FSSAI license expires after 1, 3, or 5 years
Renew at least 3 months before expiry
Late renewal = penalty (up to ₹5,000)

🛠️ Set calendar reminders!

✅ 4. Update Information When Changes Occur

Notify FSSAI if there’s any change in:

Business name
Address
Ownership
Product range
Manufacturing process

Use the “Update” option on the FSSAI portal.

✅ 5. Conduct Regular Lab Testing

Test every new batch or product variant for:

Heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As)
Pesticide residues
Microbial contamination
Moisture content

📌 Frequency: At least once every 6 months or after formulation changes.

✅ 6. Follow Labeling Rules (FSSAI Mandatory)

Your packaging must include:

FSSAI License No.
Product name
Net weight
Ingredients list
Expiry date
Manufacturer name & address
Country of origin (if imported)
Storage instructions
“Not for medical use” disclaimer (if applicable)

📌 Avoid words like “cures,” “treats,” “prevents” — these are drug claims and illegal.

❌ Don’t say: “Helps reduce stress” → Say: “Supports mental well-being”

✅ Next Up: Section 8 – Penalties for Non-Compliance

8. Penalties for Non-Compliance: What Happens If You Skip FSSAI?

Ignoring FSSAI isn’t just risky — it’s expensive.

Here’s what can happen if you operate without a valid license:

Violation	Penalty	Consequences
Operating without FSSAI license	Fine up to ₹10 lakh	Business shutdown
Selling adulterated/herbal food	Imprisonment + fine	Legal case
Misleading labels (false claims)	₹50,000 fine	Brand damage
Delayed renewal	₹5,000 penalty	License suspension
Repeated violations	Cancellation of license	Permanent ban

📌 Real Case: In 2023, a Mumbai-based Ayurvedic brand was fined ₹7.2 lakh for selling Ashwagandha powder with high lead levels and no FSSAI license.

🔥 Result: Website taken down, social media accounts suspended, and product recalled.

⚠️ Warning: Authorities now conduct surprise raids — especially in e-commerce hubs.

✅ Next Up: Section 9 – Common Mistakes in FSSAI Applications for Ayurvedic Food

9. Common Mistakes in FSSAI Applications for Ayurvedic Food Brands

Avoid these costly errors:

Mistake	Solution
Using outdated or incorrect ingredient names	Use scientific names (e.g., Withania somnifera)
Not listing all herbs in the formula	Include even minor components
Submitting low-quality document scans	Use clear, colored PDFs
Skipping lab tests	Get reports from NABL labs
Claiming medical benefits	Stick to wellness, not treatment
Applying under wrong category	Use the FSSAI eligibility tool first

💡 Golden Rule: If in doubt, consult an FSSAI expert or consultant.

✅ Next Up: Section 10 – How a Consultant Can Help You Get FSSAI Fast & Right

10. How a Consultant Can Help You Get FSSAI Fast & Right

Hiring an FSSAI consultant saves time, reduces risk, and ensures success.

They help with:

Choosing the right license type
Preparing documents correctly
Drafting FSMS manual
Arranging lab testing
Tracking application status
Handling inspections

💼 Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 (one-time)

📈 ROI: Avoids rejections, delays, and fines.

✅ Next Up: Section 11 – FAQs on FSSAI License for Ayurvedic Food Products

11. FAQs on FSSAI License for Ayurvedic Food Products (20+ Questions)

Q1: Is FSSAI license mandatory for Ayurvedic food products?

Yes. Any edible herbal product sold commercially must have FSSAI registration/license.

Q2: Can I sell homemade Ayurvedic products without FSSAI?

Only if sold personally (e.g., at festivals, fairs). Commercial sale requires FSSAI.

Q3: How much does FSSAI license cost?

Registration: ₹100
State License: ₹2,000–₹5,000
Central License: ₹7,500+

Q4: How long does it take to get FSSAI license?

Registration: 1–7 days
State License: 7–30 days
Central License: 30–60 days

Q5: Can I apply online?

Yes. All applications are done via fssai.gov.in

Q6: Do I need lab testing?

Not mandatory, but strongly recommended for herbal products.

Q7: Can I use “Ayurvedic” on my label?

Yes, but only if the product is genuinely herbal and safe.

Q8: Can I sell on Amazon without FSSAI?

No. Amazon requires FSSAI proof for food products.

Q9: Can I renew late?

Yes, but with a penalty of ₹5,000.

Q10: What if my product contains heavy metals?

You must conduct lab testing and ensure levels are below FSSAI limits.

Q11: Do I need GSTIN with FSSAI?

Only if turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh/year.

Q12: Can I apply for FSSAI from another state?

Yes — but you must have a physical presence (address, warehouse) in that state.

Q13: Can I sell on Nykaa or Flipkart?

Yes — but they require FSSAI, GSTIN, and lab reports.

Q14: Is organic certification enough?

No. FSSAI is separate and mandatory.

Q15: Can I transfer FSSAI license?

Yes — through a formal application for change of ownership.

Q16: Can I sell exported Ayurvedic food without FSSAI?

No. Export requires FSSAI + IEC code + foreign certifications.

Q17: Do I need a separate license for each product?

No. One FSSAI license covers all food products under the same category.

Q18: Can I make claims like “boosts immunity”?

Yes — but only if supported by evidence and not misinterpreted as medical treatment.

Q19: What if my product is rejected?

You can reapply after fixing the issue (e.g., lab report, documentation).

Q20: Can I get FSSAI without a shop?

Yes — home-based businesses can apply.

✅ Next Up: Section 12 – Conclusion

12. Conclusion: Secure Your Ayurvedic Food Business with FSSAI

Running an Ayurvedic food business is more than passion — it’s responsibility.

Every spoon of Chyawanprash, every packet of Tulsi Churna, every jar of Triphala Syrup carries trust.

And FSSAI is the foundation of that trust.

Whether you’re a home chef, a startup founder, or a seasoned brand, FSSAI license for Ayurvedic food products is not a choice — it’s a necessity.

It protects:

Your customers
Your reputation
Your business

And it unlocks:

E-commerce access
Investor confidence
National and global reach

Don’t wait until you’re slapped with a fine or banned from Amazon.

👉 Start your FSSAI journey today!

🔥 Apply for FSSAI License Now – Free Consultation Available
Get expert guidance, fast processing, and peace of mind.

Your Ayurvedic legacy deserves safety. Let FSSAI be your shield.