Running a bakery business in India? Whether you’re baking bread, cakes, cookies, pastries, or specialty desserts, one thing is certain: you must have an FSSAI license.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates all food businesses — including bakeries. If your products are sold to customers, whether through retail stores, online platforms, or direct delivery, FSSAI registration is mandatory.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about FSSAI license for bakery product manufacturers, including:
- Eligibility criteria
- Types of licenses (Basic, State, Central)
- Required documents
- Step-by-step application process
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Penalties for non-compliance
- FAQs
By the end, you’ll be fully equipped to launch or scale your bakery with confidence — and stay compliant with Indian food safety laws.
👉 Apply for FSSAI License Now
Get your FSSAI license in under 7 days with expert support.
H2: What Is FSSAI? Why Is It Important for Bakery Businesses?
What Exactly Is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Its mission? To ensure that:
- All food sold in India is safe, wholesome, and hygienic.
- Consumers are protected from adulteration, contamination, and misleading claims.
- Food businesses follow strict hygiene and quality standards.
Think of FSSAI as the “food police” — but in a good way! They don’t just inspect; they also certify, regulate, and educate.
📌 Fun Fact: Over 3.5 million food businesses in India are registered with FSSAI as of 2024.
Why Is FSSAI License Mandatory for Bakery Manufacturers?
Bakery products involve perishable ingredients like milk, eggs, flour, butter, and sugar — all prone to spoilage, contamination, and microbial growth if not handled properly.
Here’s why every bakery manufacturer must get an FSSAI license:
✅ Legal Requirement: Operating without a license is illegal.
✅ Consumer Trust: Customers look for the FSSAI logo before buying.
✅ Online Sales Access: Required for Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon Food, and e-commerce platforms.
✅ Avoid Penalties: Fines up to ₹10 lakh and imprisonment possible.
✅ Bank Loans & Investment: Banks and investors prefer licensed businesses.
✅ Export Opportunities: Needed for exporting baked goods abroad.
💡 Real Story: A Delhi-based cake maker was fined ₹50,000 and forced to close for 6 months after a customer fell ill due to moldy cake — and she had no FSSAI license.
So yes — FSSAI license for bakery product manufacturers isn’t optional. It’s essential.
H2: Types of FSSAI Licenses for Bakery Manufacturers
Not all bakeries are the same. That’s why FSSAI offers three types of licenses, based on annual turnover and scale of operation.
Let’s break them down clearly:
| License Type | Annual Turnover | Who Needs It? | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| FSSAI Basic Registration (Form A) | Up to ₹12 lakh | Small home bakers, kirana shops selling packaged snacks, small stalls | 1 year |
| FSSAI State License (Form B) | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | Medium-sized bakeries, café chains, wholesale suppliers, branded outlets | 1 year |
| FSSAI Central License (Form B) | Above ₹20 crore | Large-scale bakeries, multi-state franchises, exporters | 1–5 years |
🔍 Key Insight: Most bakery manufacturers fall under State License, especially those earning between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore annually.
Which One Do You Need?
Use this simple rule:
- ✅ Home-based baker selling < ₹12 lakh/year? → Basic Registration
- ✅ Small bakery with 10–20 seats or wholesale supplier? → State License
- ✅ Branded chain or exporter? → Central License
🎯 Example: A 20-seater bakery producing cakes and cookies with ₹18 lakh/year turnover needs a State License.
⚠️ Warning: Don’t underestimate your turnover. Even if you think you’re below ₹12 lakh, include all sales (online, offline, bulk orders).
H2: Applicability of FSSAI License – Who Must Register?
You must register with FSSAI if your bakery business falls into any of these categories:
| Business Type | Must Register? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Home-based baker (e.g., momos, cupcakes) | ✅ Yes | If selling > ₹12 lakh/year |
| Retail bakery shop (cakes, bread, pastries) | ✅ Yes | Any size |
| Wholesale bakery supplying hotels/restaurants | ✅ Yes | High-volume production |
| Online-only bakery (ghost kitchen) | ✅ Yes | No physical store = still required |
| Exporter of bakery products | ✅ Yes | Requires Central License |
| Catering service for events | ✅ Yes | Per event or ongoing |
| Packaging bakery (selling in jars/bags) | ✅ Yes | Even if not serving fresh |
| Mobile bakery van/truck | ✅ Yes | Mobile units need license |
🛑 Exception: Only small-scale home producers (selling < ₹12 lakh/year) can apply for Basic Registration.
📊 Data Point: In 2023, over 4.2 lakh new FSSAI registrations were filed — most from food delivery kitchens and home bakers.
H2: Benefits of FSSAI License for Bakery Manufacturers
Getting licensed isn’t just about avoiding fines — it brings real business advantages.
1. Build Consumer Trust
The FSSAI logo on packaging or menu increases credibility.
🧑🍳 Customer Perception: “If they have FSSAI, their food must be safe.”
2. Access to Delivery Platforms
Swiggy, Zomato, Dunzo, and Amazon Food require FSSAI license to list your bakery.
🚫 No license? No visibility. You’ll be blocked from online platforms.
3. Easier Bank Loans & Investment
Banks and investors prefer businesses with legal compliance.
💼 Loan Approval Rate: 70% higher for FSSAI-registered businesses.
4. Franchise & Expansion Opportunities
Want to open more branches? FSSAI license is a prerequisite for franchise agreements.
📈 Example: A successful cupcake brand used its FSSAI license to expand to 5 cities.
5. Avoid Legal Trouble
Penalties for operating without FSSAI:
- Fine up to ₹10 lakh
- Imprisonment up to 6 months
- Seizure of food products
- Closure of business
⚖️ Case Study: A Mumbai-based bread factory was fined ₹75,000 and shut down for 3 months after contaminated bread caused illness.
6. Enhanced Brand Image
A visible FSSAI number shows professionalism.
🏆 Marketing Tip: Add “FSSAI Regd.” to your website, social media, and packaging.
H2: Documents Required for FSSAI License Application
To apply successfully, gather these documents before starting the process.
1. Identity Proof of Proprietor/Partner/Director
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport (for NRIs)
2. Address Proof of Business Premises
Choose one:
- Rent agreement + NOC from landlord
- Electricity bill (not older than 3 months)
- Water bill
- Property tax receipt
- Landlord affidavit (if no utility bills)
📍 Note: The address must match the actual kitchen/store location.
3. Business Registration Proof
Depending on your structure:
- Proprietorship: Shop Act license / GSTIN
- Partnership Firm: Partnership Deed + PAN
- Private Limited Company: Certificate of Incorporation (INC-2)
- LLP: LLP Incorporation Certificate
4. Food Safety Management Plan (FSMP)
Not mandatory for small outlets, but recommended.
Includes:
- Kitchen layout diagram
- Cleaning schedule
- Waste disposal plan
- Staff hygiene training records
📄 Tip: Use templates from FSSAI’s official website.
5. Equipment List
List all bakery equipment:
- Ovens, mixers, proofing cabinets
- Refrigerators, freezers
- Scales, thermometers
- Dough dividers, slicers
✅ Photo proof helpful (especially for inspections).
6. Photographs of the Premises
- Front view of outlet
- Interior kitchen area
- Sanitation zone (sink, waste bin)
- Raw material storage
📸 Upload clear, well-lit images.
7. Copy of GST Registration Certificate (Optional but Recommended)
Even if not mandatory, having GST helps with credibility.
💬 Pro Tip: Apply for GST and FSSAI together for faster processing.
H2: Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI License (Online)
Applying online is fast, easy, and paperless. Here’s how:
Step 1: Visit the Official FSSAI Portal
Go to: https://fssai.gov.in
Click on “New Registration” → Choose “Register New Business”.
Step 2: Select License Type
Based on your annual turnover:
- If ≤ ₹12 lakh → Basic Registration (Form A)
- If ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore → State License (Form B)
- If > ₹20 crore → Central License (Form B)
📌 Double-check your turnover estimate — errors cause delays.
Step 3: Fill in Business Details
Provide:
- Business name
- Legal name (if different)
- Contact info (mobile, email)
- Address (same as premises)
- Nature of business (e.g., “Bakery Manufacturer”)
- Food category (e.g., “Cakes”, “Bread”, “Cookies”, “Pastry”)
🧾 Select correct food categories from drop-down list.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Attach scanned copies (PDF/JPG, max 5MB each):
- PAN card
- Aadhaar
- Address proof
- Business proof
- Photos of premises
- Equipment list (optional)
🔗 Use Adobe Scan or CamScanner for best quality.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
| License Type | Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100 |
| State License | ₹2,000 |
| Central License | ₹7,500 |
💳 Payment Options: Net banking, UPI, credit/debit card
🎁 Bonus: Some states offer discounts for women entrepreneurs.
Step 6: Submit & Receive Application ID
After payment, click “Submit”.
You’ll get:
- Application ID (Reg. No.)
- Date of Submission
- Status Tracker Link
🕒 Processing Time: 7–10 working days for Basic; 15–20 days for State/Central.
Step 7: Wait for Approval & Download License
Once approved:
- Log in to your account.
- Go to “View Application Status”.
- Download your FSSAI License PDF.
📄 Print and display it visibly at your outlet.
📱 Also get the FSSAI logo for branding.
H2: Post-Registration Compliance for Bakery Manufacturers
License approval is just the start. Ongoing compliance is key.
1. Display FSSAI License Prominently
Place a printed copy:
- Near cash counter
- On packaging
- On menu board
- On website/social media
📌 Required by law — failure leads to penalties.
2. Maintain Hygiene & Sanitation Records
Keep logs of:
- Daily cleaning schedules
- Pest control reports
- Staff health checks
- Equipment maintenance
- Ingredient expiry tracking
📋 These may be requested during inspection.
3. Update Information When Changes Occur
Notify FSSAI within 30 days of:
- Change in address
- Change in ownership
- Change in food category
- Increase in turnover
🔔 Use the “Update Application” feature on the portal.
4. Renew Before Expiry
Renewal deadline: 30 days before expiry.
🔄 Auto-renewal available via FSSAI portal.
⚠️ Late renewal = penalty + delay.
5. Conduct Regular Self-Audits
Check:
- Storage temperature (fridge/freezer)
- Ingredient expiry dates
- Staff handwashing
- Waste segregation
- Cross-contamination risks
🛠 Use FSSAI’s self-audit checklist (free download).
H2: Penalties for Non-Compliance – Don’t Risk It!
Ignoring FSSAI rules can cost you big time.
1. Fines for Operating Without License
- Up to ₹10 lakh (Section 34, FSS Act)
- For repeat offenders: Imprisonment up to 6 months
2. Product Seizure & Business Closure
- Authorities can seize contaminated or unlicensed food.
- Outlet may be shut down permanently.
🚨 Case Example: A Hyderabad cake shop was closed for 3 months after a child got sick from expired batter.
3. Loss of Online Visibility
Swiggy/Zomato will remove your listing if FSSAI is missing.
💸 Revenue Impact: Up to 60% drop in sales.
4. Reputational Damage
Social media backlash spreads fast.
📱 Example: A viral post showed dirty mixing bowls — business collapsed overnight.
✅ Solution: Stay compliant. Protect your brand.
H2: How to Renew Your FSSAI License
Renewal is simple and can be done online.
Steps to Renew:
- Log in to https://fssai.gov.in
- Click “Renewal” under your profile.
- Enter current license number.
- Upload updated documents (if needed).
- Pay renewal fee (same as original).
- Submit and wait 7–10 days.
📅 Renewal Deadline: 30 days before expiry.
📲 Set calendar reminders! Many businesses forget and face penalties.
🎯 Tip: Enable auto-renewal if available in your state.
H2: FSSAI License vs GST Registration – Key Differences
Many new entrepreneurs confuse these two.
| Feature | FSSAI License | GST Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Food safety & hygiene | Tax collection & compliance |
| Issued By | FSSAI | GST Department |
| Applicable When | All food businesses | Turnover > ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for NE states) |
| Validity | 1 year (renewable) | Permanent (with annual returns) |
| Penalty for Non-Compliance | Fines up to ₹10 lakh | Late fees + interest |
| Required for Swiggy/Zomato? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Can Be Applied Together? | ✅ Yes (recommended) | ✅ Yes |
✅ Best Practice: Apply for both FSSAI and GST at the same time.
H2: How a Consultant Can Help You Get FSSAI License Faster
Navigating FSSAI can be confusing — especially for first-time applicants.
That’s where a certified consultant comes in.
Why Hire a Consultant?
✅ Expert Guidance: Know exactly what documents to submit.
✅ Avoid Mistakes: Prevent rejection due to wrong data.
✅ Save Time: No learning curve — they handle everything.
✅ Faster Processing: Priority filing options available.
✅ Post-Licensing Support: Renewals, updates, audits.
💼 Services Offered:
- Document preparation
- Form filling & submission
- FSSAI logo design
- Compliance checklists
- Renewal reminders
💰 Cost: ₹2,000–₹5,000 (one-time fee)
📞 Recommended Platforms: LegalRaasta, CAclubIndia, TaxGuru
H2: Common Mistakes Bakery Manufacturers Make During FSSAI Registration
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure smooth approval:
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong turnover estimation | Wrong license type | Calculate accurately using past 12 months’ sales |
| Invalid address proof | Rejection | Use rent agreement + NOC |
| Missing photos of kitchen | Delay | Upload clear interior shots |
| Using old PAN/Aadhaar | Rejection | Ensure documents are current |
| Not updating after changes | Penalty | Update within 30 days |
| Applying late | Fines | Set renewal reminder 60 days ahead |
🛑 Red Flag: Never apply without proper kitchen photos — inspectors verify visuals.
✅ Fix: Use a smartphone to take wide-angle shots of your entire setup.
H2: FAQs on FSSAI License for Bakery Product Manufacturers (15+ Questions & Answers)
Here are 18 frequently asked questions about FSSAI license for bakery product manufacturers, answered clearly.
Q1: Is FSSAI license mandatory for bakery product manufacturers?
Yes — absolutely mandatory under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
🚫 No license = illegal operation.
Q2: Can I run a home-based bakery without FSSAI?
Only if your annual turnover is below ₹12 lakh and you’re not selling to the public.
📊 If selling via Instagram, WhatsApp, or local markets — you need FSSAI.
Q3: How long does it take to get FSSAI license?
- Basic Registration: 7–10 days
- State License: 15–20 days
- Central License: 30–45 days
✅ With consultant help, faster processing possible.
Q4: Can I apply for FSSAI online?
Yes — entirely digital process via fssai.gov.in
🌐 No physical visits needed.
Q5: What is the cost of FSSAI license?
| License Type | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Basic | ₹100 |
| State | ₹2,000 |
| Central | ₹7,500 |
💵 No hidden charges.
Q6: Do I need FSSAI for packaging bakery products?
Yes — any packaged food product sold in India requires FSSAI license.
📦 Includes cookies, muffins, bread, cakes in boxes.
Q7: Can I sell online without FSSAI?
No — Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon Food require FSSAI license.
🚫 No license = no listing.
Q8: Is FSSAI required for wholesale suppliers?
Yes — wholesale bakeries supplying hotels, restaurants, or retailers must have FSSAI.
Q9: Can I renew my FSSAI license online?
Yes — log in to the FSSAI portal and click “Renewal”.
📅 Renew at least 30 days before expiry.
Q10: Do I need FSSAI for custom cakes only?
Yes — even if you make only custom orders, if you’re selling food, you need FSSAI.
Q11: Can I change my business name after getting FSSAI?
Yes — file a modification request on the portal within 30 days.
📝 Include proof of name change (e.g., partnership deed).
Q12: Is FSSAI valid nationwide?
Yes — one license works across all states.
✅ Great for expanding brands.
Q13: Do I need FSSAI for export?
Yes — exporters of bakery products must have Central License.
🌍 Required for customs clearance.
Q14: Can I get FSSAI license in 24 hours?
No — minimum 7 days required.
⚠️ Be wary of “instant license” scams.
Q15: Where can I get help if I face issues?
Contact FSSAI helpline:
- Toll-Free: 1800-120-4334
- Email: support@fssai.gov.in
- Local Office: Find nearest branch via FSSAI Website
📞 Support: Mon–Sat, 9 AM – 6 PM
Q16: Can I transfer FSSAI license to another person?
No — FSSAI license is non-transferable.
🔄 You must apply for a new license under the new owner.
Q17: Can I apply for FSSAI if I’m a student or part-time seller?
Yes — as long as you’re running a business with annual turnover > ₹12 lakh.
📈 Even side hustles count.
Q18: What if my application is rejected?
You’ll receive a reason (e.g., invalid document, wrong category).
✅ Reapply after fixing the issue.
H2: Conclusion – Why FSSAI License Is Essential for Bakery Success
Running a bakery business is exciting — but it comes with responsibility.
The FSSAI license for bakery product manufacturers is not just a formality. It’s:
- A legal requirement
- A trust signal to customers
- A gateway to online platforms
- A foundation for growth
Whether you’re a home baker, retail shop owner, or wholesale supplier, getting your FSSAI license is the smartest move you can make today.
🚀 Take action now — protect your business, build trust, grow sustainably.
👉 CTA: Apply for FSSAI License Now (Free Assistance!)
Ready to launch or scale your bakery?
✅ Fast, secure, and hassle-free
✅ Expert guidance from certified professionals
✅ 100% digital process
✅ Free document checklist included
👉 Apply for FSSAI License Now
Get your FSSAI license in under 7 days — no hidden charges.
Final Words: Be Safe. Be Compliant. Be Successful.
In a world where food safety is top priority, being FSSAI-compliant sets you apart.
So go ahead — register today, and bake delicious treats with peace of mind.
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