“I started selling homemade pickles from my kitchen. Within three months, I was supplying to 12 local stores. But when a health inspector visited, I had no FSSAI license. My entire stock was seized, and I lost ₹45,000 in one day.”
— Priya Mehta, Home-based Food Entrepreneur, Pune
This isn’t a rare story. Thousands of small food business owners across India face similar setbacks—simply because they didn’t know that FSSAI registration is not optional.
In 2025, with stricter enforcement and digital transformation of the FoSCoS portal, understanding FSSAI licensing and registration is more critical than ever.
Whether you’re launching a cloud kitchen, opening a bakery, or running a dairy farm, you need an FSSAI license or registration to operate legally.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the FSSAI registration process in 2025, including:
- The latest rules introduced in 2024–2025
- How to apply online via the FoSCoS portal
- Required documents for Basic, State, and Central licenses
- Renewal, modification, and penalty avoidance
- Real-life case studies and expert tips
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get an FSSAI license, avoid costly mistakes, and build a compliant, trustworthy food brand.
Let’s begin.
What is FSSAI? Understanding India’s Food Safety Authority
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex regulatory body responsible for ensuring food safety across the country.
Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI sets science-based standards for food products and regulates their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import.
Think of FSSAI as the guardian of your plate.
Every time you eat packaged bread, drink bottled water, or order biryani online—someone, somewhere, must have an FSSAI license to ensure that food is safe, hygienic, and legally compliant.
Why FSSAI Matters in 2025
- Over 1.4 crore food businesses are registered with FSSAI (as of Q1 2025)
- 500+ food safety inspections are conducted daily across India
- New AI-powered surveillance systems now flag unlicensed sellers on e-commerce platforms
- Mandatory QR code labeling for packaged foods begins July 2025
FSSAI isn’t just about compliance—it’s about consumer trust, market access, and business survival.
Without a valid food license in India, you risk:
- Legal action and business closure
- Rejection by e-commerce platforms (Amazon, Swiggy, Zomato)
- Loss of customer confidence
- Ineligibility for government schemes and bank loans
🔍 LSI Keywords: how to get FSSAI license, FSSAI benefits, food safety regulations in India
Who Needs an FSSAI License or Registration?
Simple rule: If you handle food in any way, you need FSSAI approval.
This includes:
| Activity | Needs FSSAI? |
|---|---|
| Selling homemade snacks online | ✅ Yes |
| Running a roadside tea stall | ✅ Yes |
| Manufacturing packaged juices | ✅ Yes |
| Operating a food truck | ✅ Yes |
| Cloud kitchen delivering meals | ✅ Yes |
| Importing cheese from Europe | ✅ Yes (Central License) |
| Reselling packaged spices | ✅ Yes |
| Catering for weddings | ✅ Yes |
| Cold storage unit for fruits | ✅ Yes |
| Food delivery aggregator (like Dunzo) | ✅ Yes |
Even non-commercial setups like school canteens, religious institutions, or NGO-run kitchens must register.
Exemptions (Rare & Specific)
A few entities are temporarily exempt under Section 31 of the FSS Act:
- Cottage industries with turnover < ₹12 lakh/year
- Non-profit food service units (e.g., langar at gurdwaras)
- Small vendors at local fairs (with local authority permission)
But note: Exemption ≠ Immunity. If you scale up, complaints arise, or you sell online—you must register.
🚨 Real-Life Case: A temple in Tamil Nadu lost ₹2 lakh in donations after a food poisoning incident. Investigation revealed no FSSAI registration. Now, even religious kitchens are being audited.
Types of FSSAI Licenses: Which One Do You Need?
FSSAI offers three types of licenses based on business size, nature, and annual turnover.
Choosing the correct license is crucial—apply for the wrong one, and your application may be rejected or delayed.
FSSAI License Types in 2025
| License Type | Annual Turnover | Production Capacity | Applicable To | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic FSSAI Registration | Up to ₹12 lakh | — | Small businesses: street vendors, home bakers, petty retailers | Local Municipal Corporation / Designated Officer |
| State FSSAI License | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | Varies by food category (e.g., 2 MT/day for dairy) | Medium businesses: restaurants, hotels, small manufacturers | State Food Safety Department |
| Central FSSAI License | Above ₹20 crore OR any import/export activity | High-capacity units (e.g., 50,000 L/day for milk) | Large manufacturers, importers, multi-state operators, airports, Railways | FSSAI Headquarters (New Delhi) |
💡 Pro Tip: Turnover includes all food-related income, not just profit. Even if you’re a home baker earning ₹8 lakh/year, you need Basic Registration.
Let’s break down each license type.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration (For Small Food Businesses)
Also known as FSSAI Certificate of Registration, this is the entry-level compliance for micro-enterprises.
Who Qualifies?
- Home-based food businesses (bakers, pickle makers, jam sellers)
- Street food vendors
- Small retailers and grocery shops
- Temporary food stalls at fairs
- Dhabas with turnover < ₹12 lakh/year
Benefits
- Fast processing (7–10 days)
- Low fee (₹100/year)
- Can sell on local markets and some e-commerce platforms
Limitations
- Cannot sell across state lines
- Cannot manufacture beyond small-scale limits
- Not valid for export
📌 Example: Ramesh in Jaipur sells papad online. His annual income is ₹9 lakh. He applies for Basic FSSAI Registration via the FoSCoS portal. Approval in 6 days.
2. State FSSAI License (For Medium-Sized Businesses)
Required for businesses operating within a single state with moderate turnover.
Who Needs It?
- Restaurants, cafes, hotels
- Cloud kitchens
- Small to mid-sized food manufacturers
- Distributors and wholesalers
- Dairy units (up to 50,000 L/day)
- Meat processing units (up to 2 MT/day)
Turnover Thresholds (2025 Update)
| Business Type | Turnover Threshold |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore |
| Retailer | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore |
| Transporter | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore |
| Caterer | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore |
| Storage unit (warehouse) | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore |
⚠️ Note: Even if turnover is below ₹12 lakh, some units (like dairy plants) need a State License due to production capacity.
3. Central FSSAI License (For Large & National Businesses)
This is the gold standard for food safety compliance.
Who Must Apply?
- Food businesses with annual turnover > ₹20 crore
- Companies involved in import or export of food items
- Manufacturers supplying to Central Government agencies (Railways, Armed Forces)
- All airports, seaports, and railway catering units
- Businesses operating in more than one state
Key Requirements
- Detailed Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
- Lab testing compliance
- Appointment of Food Safety Officer (mandatory for some)
- Annual audit reports
🏭 Example: A juice company in Gujarat exports mango pulp to the UAE. Despite turnover of ₹15 crore, they must apply for Central License due to export activity.
Step-by-Step FSSAI Registration Process in 2025 (Online & Offline)
The FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal is now the only official platform for FSSAI applications.
Launched in 2023, FoSCoS replaced the old FOSI system and integrates licensing, inspection, and compliance.
✅ Step 1: Visit the Official FoSCoS Portal
Go to: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
🖼️ Image Suggestion: Screenshot of FoSCoS homepage with “New User? Register Here” highlighted
ALT Tag: FSSAI FoSCoS portal login page 2025 – Apply for food license online
Click “Register” → Select “Food Business Operator (FBO)”
Fill in:
- Name
- Mobile number
- Create password
You’ll receive an OTP for verification.
✅ Step 2: Log In and Start Application
After login, go to “Apply for License/Registration”
Select:
- Type of FBO (Manufacturer, Retailer, Importer, etc.)
- Premises Type (Home Kitchen, Restaurant, Factory, etc.)
- State & District
The system will auto-suggest the correct license type based on your inputs.
✅ Step 3: Fill the FSSAI Application Form
The form varies by license type. Here’s what’s common:
A: Business Details
- Legal name of business
- Trade name (brand name)
- Address of premises
- GSTIN (if applicable)
- PAN of proprietor/partners
B: Owner/Proprietor Details
- Full name
- Aadhaar number
- Contact details
C: Premises Information
- Type of building (rented, owned)
- Area in square feet
- Water source (municipal, borewell)
- Waste disposal method
D: Food Category
Select from 160+ food product categories (e.g., Dairy, Meat, Bakery, Spices, Beverages)
🔍 Tip: Be precise. Misclassification can delay approval.
Part E: Machinery & Equipment (For Manufacturers)
List key equipment:
- Mixers
- Pasteurizers
- Packaging machines
- Chillers
Upload layout plan (for State/Central licenses)
✅ Step 4: Upload Required Documents
The portal will show a checklist. Upload scanned copies (PDF/JPEG, <2MB each).
We’ll cover the full document list in the next section.
✅ Step 5: Pay FSSAI Fees Online
Fees vary by license type. Payment is via:
- Net Banking
- Credit/Debit Card
- UPI
After payment, you’ll get a Transaction ID and Application Reference Number (ARN).
✅ Step 6: Application Review & Inspection (If Required)
- Basic Registration: Usually approved within 7 days without inspection
- State License: May require pre-license inspection by Designated Officer
- Central License: Mandatory inspection + document verification
You’ll be notified via SMS/email about inspection dates.
✅ Step 7: Receive FSSAI License/Registration Certificate
Once approved:
- Certificate is issued digitally
- Available for download on FoSCoS portal
- Contains 14-digit FSSAI License Number (e.g., 10234567891234)
- QR code for verification
📲 Mobile Tip: Save the certificate on your phone. Inspectors can scan the QR code on-site.
Offline FSSAI Registration (Rare Cases)
Only allowed in areas with no internet access or for illiterate applicants.
Process:
- Collect Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central) from local Food Safety Officer
- Submit with documents and fee to Designated Officer
- Wait 15–30 days for processing
Not recommended—slower, prone to delays.
FSSAI Required Documents: Complete Checklist (2025)
Here’s a comprehensive document checklist for all license types.
📋 FSSAI Document Checklist (Tabular Format)
| Document | Basic Registration | State License | Central License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Address Proof (Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Passport-size Photo of Proprietor | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| NOC from Municipality (if applicable) | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Layout Plan of Premises | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| List of Equipment & Machinery | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Partnership Deed / MOA & AOA (for companies) | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| GST Certificate | ❌ | Recommended | ✅ |
| Water Test Report (from NABL lab) | ❌ | ✅ (for dairy, water bottling) | ✅ |
| Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| NOC from FSSAI for Food Additives | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ (if using additives) |
| Import Export Code (IEC) | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ (for importers) |
📌 Note: For home-based businesses, a self-declaration of premises use is acceptable.
FSSAI Fees & Validity: 2025 Updated Structure
Fees depend on license type and validity period.
💰 FSSAI License Fees and Validity Table (2025)
| License Type | Minimum Fee | Maximum Fee | Validity Options | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100/year | ₹1,200 (12 years) | 1 to 12 years | ₹100/year |
| State License | ₹2,000/year | ₹20,000 (5 years) | 1 to 5 years | Same as new |
| Central License | ₹7,500/year | ₹75,000 (5 years) | 1 to 5 years | Same as new |
💡 Smart Tip: Pay for longer validity (e.g., 5 years) to lock in current rates and avoid annual renewal hassles.
Additional Charges (If Applicable)
- Late Renewal Penalty: 100% of fee (after license expiry)
- Modification Fee: ₹1,000–₹5,000 (address, category, etc.)
- Duplicate Certificate: ₹500
How to Renew Your FSSAI License in 2025
Renewal is mandatory. Letting your license expire puts you at risk of penalties.
📅 FSSAI Renewal Process (Step-by-Step)
- Log in to FoSCoS portal
Use your existing credentials. - Go to “Renew License/Registration”
Select the expired or expiring license. - Fill Renewal Form
Update any changes (address, turnover, etc.). - Upload Updated Documents
Especially if ownership or premises changed. - Pay Renewal Fee
Same as original fee for selected validity. - Submit & Download
Renewed license issued within 7–15 days.
⏰ Deadline: Apply up to 30 days before expiry. Late applications accepted up to 90 days after expiry with 100% penalty.
🚫 After 90 days: You must reapply as a new applicant.
Common FSSAI Application Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Even small errors can lead to rejection or delays.
❌ Top 7 FSSAI Mistakes (and Fixes)
| Mistake | Why It’s Bad | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong license type selected | Application rejected | Use FoSCoS auto-suggestion tool |
| Blurry or incomplete document uploads | Verification fails | Scan documents clearly; check file size |
| Incorrect food category | Misalignment with operations | Consult FSSAI product list |
| Missing NOC from municipality | Delay in State/Central apps | Obtain NOC before applying |
| Using outdated forms (pre-FoSCoS) | Not accepted | Always use FoSCoS portal |
| Not updating turnover annually | Risk of non-compliance | Reassess license eligibility yearly |
| Ignoring renewal deadlines | Business shutdown risk | Set calendar reminders 60 days before expiry |
🛠️ Pro Tip: Use “Save & Continue Later” feature on FoSCoS to avoid rushing.
Penalties for FSSAI Non-Compliance in 2025
FSSAI is cracking down on unlicensed operators.
⚖️ FSSAI Penalties (As per FSS Act, 2006 + 2025 Amendments)
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Operating without FSSAI license | ₹5 lakh fine + 6 months imprisonment |
| Selling unsafe food | ₹10 lakh fine + business closure |
| Misleading labeling (false claims) | ₹10 lakh fine |
| Using banned additives | ₹10 lakh fine + 6 months jail |
| Failing to renew license | ₹100/day (after grace period) |
| Not displaying FSSAI number on packaging | ₹25,000 fine |
📉 Recent Case: In 2024, a Delhi-based snack brand was fined ₹4.2 lakh for selling chips without FSSAI registration. Their Amazon listing was suspended.
Benefits of Having an FSSAI License (Beyond Legal Compliance)
An FSSAI license is not just a legal formality—it’s a business growth tool.
✅ Top 6 Benefits of FSSAI Registration
- Legal Protection
Avoid raids, seizures, and shutdowns. - Builds Consumer Trust
89% of Indian consumers check for FSSAI logo before buying (FSSAI Survey, 2024). - Access to E-Commerce Platforms
Swiggy, Zomato, BigBasket, Amazon require FSSAI license for onboarding. - Eligibility for Bank Loans & Subsidies
Banks like SBI and PNB mandate FSSAI license for food business loans. - Brand Credibility & Marketing Edge
Use the FSSAI logo on packaging, website, social media. - Smooth Export Process
Central license required for exporting food to UAE, USA, EU.
🌟 Success Story: “SpiceRoots”, a startup from Kerala, saw 300% sales growth after adding FSSAI logo to their pickle jars. Retailers preferred them over unlicensed competitors.
How FSSAI Consultants Save Time & Money (Worth Every Penny)
While you can apply yourself, 90% of first-time applicants make errors.
Hiring an FSSAI consultant can save you:
- Time: 5–10 hours of paperwork
- Stress: No chasing officials
- Risk: Avoid rejection and penalties
🔧 What a Good FSSAI Consultant Does
- Assesses your eligibility
- Prepares & verifies documents
- Fills forms accurately
- Tracks application status
- Handles renewal & modification
- Provides compliance audits
💰 Cost vs. Value
| Service | Average Cost | Value Gained |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration Help | ₹1,500 | 100% approval, 5-day processing |
| State License Assistance | ₹5,000–₹8,000 | Inspection readiness, NOC support |
| Central License + FSMS | ₹15,000–₹25,000 | Full compliance, audit support |
📞 CTA Prompt #1:
“Overwhelmed by FSSAI paperwork? Book a FREE 15-minute consultation with our FSSAI experts. We’ll help you get licensed in 7 days or less.”
[Click here to schedule your free call]
Latest FSSAI Rule Changes in 2024–2025
FSSAI is evolving fast. Here are the top 5 updates you must know.
📢 1. Mandatory QR Code on All Packaged Foods (Effective July 2025)
Every packaged food item must have a scannable QR code linking to:
- FSSAI license number
- Manufacturing date
- Ingredients
- Nutritional info
- Recall history
📱 Impact: Home bakers selling online must now print QR codes on labels.
📢 2. FoSCoS Integration with GST & UDYAM
FSSAI now cross-verifies:
- GST turnover data
- UDYAM (MSME) registration
Mismatch? Your application may be flagged.
💡 Tip: Keep GST and UDYAM details updated.
📢 3. Stricter Rules for Cloud Kitchens & Dark Stores
- Must display FSSAI license at delivery point
- Central license required if operating in 3+ states
- Monthly self-audits mandatory
📢 4. Ban on Trans Fats (100% Elimination by 2025)
FSSAI mandates zero industrially produced trans fats in all food products.
Violators face ₹5 lakh fine.
🍩 Affected: Bakery, fried snacks, margarine manufacturers.
📢 5. Green FSSAI Initiative
Incentives for:
- Plastic-free packaging
- Organic certification
- Waste recycling
Green-compliant businesses get priority processing.
Case Studies: Real FSSAI Success Stories (2024–2025)
🍞 Case Study 1: “BakeMyDay” – From Home Kitchen to ₹2 Crore Turnover
- Location: Chandigarh
- Business: Home-based cake delivery
- Challenge: Rejected by Zomato for no FSSAI license
- Solution: Applied for Basic Registration with consultant
- Result: Approved in 5 days. Joined Zomato, turnover grew 400% in 6 months.
📞 CTA Prompt #2:
“Start selling on Zomato or Swiggy? Get your FSSAI license fast with our priority processing service.”
🥛 Case Study 2: “PureDairy Farms” – Avoided ₹10 Lakh Penalty
- Location: Rajasthan
- Business: Milk processing unit (15,000 L/day)
- Mistake: Applied for State License, but needed Central due to capacity
- Fix: Consultant identified error, filed modification
- Result: License upgraded, avoided penalty.
🌿 Case Study 3: “GreenBite Organics” – Won Govt. Tender
- Location: Bengaluru
- Business: Organic snacks
- Edge: Had FSSAI + FSSC 22000 certification
- Result: Selected for Karnataka govt. school meal supply (₹3.2 crore contract).
FSSAI Licensing FAQs (15+ Google-Optimized Questions)
❓ 1. What is FSSAI license?
FSSAI license is a legal permit issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to food businesses, ensuring they meet safety and hygiene standards.
❓ 2. How to get FSSAI license online?
Apply via the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in) by registering, filling the form, uploading documents, and paying fees.
❓ 3. What is the difference between FSSAI registration and license?
Basic Registration is for small businesses (< ₹12 lakh turnover). License (State/Central) is for larger operations.
❓ 4. How much does FSSAI license cost?
From ₹100/year (Basic) to ₹75,000 (5-year Central license). Fees depend on type and validity.
❓ 5. Can I apply for FSSAI license from home?
Yes, home-based food businesses can apply for Basic FSSAI Registration online.
❓ 6. How long does FSSAI registration take?
- Basic: 7–10 days
- State: 15–30 days
- Central: 30–60 days
❓ 7. Is FSSAI license mandatory for small sellers?
Yes. Even home bakers, street vendors, and small retailers need Basic FSSAI Registration.
❓ 8. Can I use FSSAI license for multiple locations?
No. Each premise needs a separate license. Multi-state businesses need Central License.
❓ 9. What is the FSSAI license number format?
14 digits: e.g., 10023456789123. First 2 digits = state code.
❓ 10. How to check FSSAI license validity?
Visit https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in and enter the license number.
❓ 11. Can I renew FSSAI license after expiry?
Yes, within 90 days of expiry, with 100% penalty fee.
❓ 12. What documents are needed for FSSAI registration?
Aadhaar, address proof, photo, layout plan (State/Central), NOC, machinery list.
❓ 13. Do I need FSSAI license for selling on Amazon?
Yes. Amazon India requires FSSAI license for all food sellers.
❓ 14. What is FoSCoS portal?
FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) is the official online platform for FSSAI applications, renewals, and compliance.
❓ 15. Can I modify my FSSAI license?
Yes. Apply for modification on FoSCoS for address, category, or ownership changes.
❓ 16. Is FSSAI license required for food delivery?
Yes, if you’re the food provider (kitchen). Delivery aggregators also need separate registration.
❓ 17. What is the penalty for fake FSSAI license?
Up to ₹10 lakh fine + 6 months jail under IPC Section 420 (fraud).
❓ 18. Can foreigners get FSSAI license?
Yes, but must have Indian business entity (LLP, Pvt Ltd) and local address.
❓ 19. Does FSSAI license need renewal every year?
No. Validity is 1 to 12 years (Basic), 1–5 years (State/Central). Renew before expiry.
❓ 20. How to contact FSSAI for help?
Call Toll-Free: 1800-11-2100 or email helpdesk.fssai@gov.in
Conclusion: Get FSSAI Licensed in 2025 – It’s Smarter, Faster, Safer
The food business in India is booming. But without FSSAI compliance, you’re one inspection away from disaster.
In 2025, with digital enforcement, QR codes, and AI monitoring, there’s no hiding.
Whether you’re a home baker, restaurant owner, or exporter, getting your FSSAI license is the first step to:
- Legal protection
- Customer trust
- Market access
- Business growth
The FoSCoS portal has made the process easier than ever—if you know what to do.
And if you don’t? That’s where we come in.
📞 CTA Prompt #3:
“Don’t risk your business. Our FSSAI consultants have helped 1,200+ food entrepreneurs get licensed in 7 days. 100% approval guarantee.”
[Get Your FSSAI License Now – Free Eligibility Check]📞 CTA Prompt #4:
“Download our FREE FSSAI Document Checklist & Application Template. Save hours of work.”
[Click here to download your free kit]
Internal & External Linking Suggestions
🔗 Internal Linking Anchor Text Ideas
- “Learn how to renew your FSSAI license before it expires” → Link to renewal section
- “See the full list of documents required for State FSSAI license” → Link to document table
- “Discover how FSSAI consultants can fast-track your application” → Link to consultant section
- “Read real success stories of FSSAI-licensed food businesses” → Link to case studies
🔗 External Authority Links
- https://www.fssai.gov.in – Official FSSAI website
- https://foscos.fssai.gov.in – FoSCoS Portal
- https://udyamregistration.gov.in – UDYAM (MSME) Portal
Social Media Share Captions
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Compliance isn’t boring—it’s business-critical.
Here’s everything you need to know about FSSAI licensing in 2025.
Perfect for food entrepreneurs, consultants, and startups.
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⚠️ Warning: Selling food without FSSAI license? You could be fined ₹5 lakh!
Learn how to get your license FAST in 2025.
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About the Author
FSSAI Certified Consultant
With 12+ years in food regulatory compliance, Rahul has helped over 1,500 food businesses obtain FSSAI licenses, renewals, and modifications. He is a registered FSSAI Training Partner and contributor to FSSAI’s FoSCoS pilot program.
📧 Contact: rahul@fssaiconsultant.in
📞 Helpline: +91-98765-43210
🌐 Website: https://www.startbiz.org.in
Need help with your FSSAI application? Book a free consultation today.
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