The Indian food processing industry has witnessed a significant transformation over the past decade, with consumers increasingly shifting towards convenient, healthy, and ready-to-eat food products. Among these, jam and jelly have carved a niche for themselves as essential pantry staples in both urban and rural households. From breakfast tables to gourmet desserts, fruit preserves are no longer just indulgences—they’re part of everyday eating habits.
With rising health awareness and demand for natural, additive-free products, the market for artisanal jams, organic jellies, and fruit-based spreads is booming. According to industry reports, the Indian fruit preserves market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 8% between 2024 and 2030. This surge presents a golden opportunity for small entrepreneurs, home-based producers, and large-scale manufacturers alike.
However, tapping into this growing market isn’t just about taste and branding—it’s about trust, safety, and legal compliance. That’s where the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) steps in.
For any jam or jelly manufacturer in India—whether you’re making 50 jars a day from your kitchen or producing 10,000 units per shift in a factory—obtaining an FSSAI license is not optional. It’s mandatory.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing your FSSAI license for jam & jelly manufacturers, including eligibility, required documents, step-by-step application process, compliance standards, penalties for non-compliance, and real-world success stories.
Whether you’re planning to start a new venture or scale an existing one, this article is your roadmap to legal, safe, and sustainable growth in the fruit preserves sector.
What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It operates under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, and is responsible for regulating the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food products across the country.
Key Roles of FSSAI:
- Setting science-based standards for food articles
- Regulating food additives, contaminants, and labeling
- Ensuring hygiene and safety in food processing units
- Granting licenses and registrations to food businesses
- Monitoring and enforcing food safety laws
- Promoting awareness about food safety practices
For jam and jelly manufacturers, FSSAI plays a critical role in ensuring that:
- The fruit used is safe and free from pesticide residues
- Preservatives like benzoic acid or sorbic acid are used within permissible limits
- Sugar content and pH levels meet safety benchmarks
- Packaging is tamper-proof and properly labeled
- Manufacturing units maintain sanitary conditions
Without an FSSAI license, no food business operator (FBO) can legally manufacture, sell, or distribute any food product in India—including jams and jellies.
Why Jam & Jelly Manufacturers Need an FSSAI License
If you’re making jams or jellies—even from home—for commercial purposes, you must obtain an FSSAI license or registration. Here’s why it’s essential:
✅ 1. Legal Requirement
Under the FSS Act, 2006, any food business, regardless of size, must be registered or licensed with FSSAI. Selling jam without a license is a punishable offense.
✅ 2. Builds Consumer Trust
The FSSAI logo on your product packaging signals that your brand adheres to national food safety standards. This builds credibility and confidence among customers.
Did you know? Over 70% of Indian consumers check for the FSSAI license number before purchasing packaged food.
✅ 3. Enables Market Expansion
An FSSAI license opens doors to:
- Supermarkets and retail chains (they require FSSAI compliance)
- E-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and BigBasket
- Export markets (many countries require FSSAI certification)
- Participation in food expos and trade fairs
✅ 4. Protects Your Brand
With proper licensing, you reduce the risk of:
- Product recalls
- Legal notices
- Negative publicity due to food safety issues
A compliant brand is a resilient brand.
✅ 5. Facilitates Funding & Partnerships
Banks, investors, and co-packers often demand FSSAI compliance before entering into agreements. A valid license enhances your business valuation and loan eligibility.
✅ 6. Supports Export Opportunities
For exporters, a Central FSSAI License is often a prerequisite. Many international buyers insist on FSSAI certification as proof of quality and safety.
Types of FSSAI Licenses – Which One Applies to You?
FSSAI offers three types of licenses/registrations, depending on your production capacity, annual turnover, and business scale.
Let’s break them down specifically for jam & jelly manufacturers.
| License Type | Applicable To | Annual Turnover | Production Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| FSSAI Basic Registration | Small-scale producers | Up to ₹12 lakh | Up to 100 kg/litre per day |
| FSSAI State License | Medium-scale units | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | 100 kg/litre to 2 MT per day |
| FSSAI Central License | Large manufacturers, exporters | Above ₹20 crore | Above 2 MT per day |
🍓 FSSAI Basic Registration (Form A)
Ideal for:
- Home-based jam makers
- Cottage industry producers
- Farmers’ cooperatives
- Small startups selling locally
Example: You make 50–80 jars of organic strawberry jam daily from your kitchen and sell via local markets or WhatsApp groups.
Key Features:
- One-year validity (renewable)
- Minimal documentation
- Low fee (₹100)
- No inspection in most cases
✅ Tip: Even if you’re selling online to friends and family, and earning more than ₹12 lakh/year, you’ll need a State License.
🏭 FSSAI State License (Form B)
Ideal for:
- Small to medium food processing units
- Brands selling across cities
- Manufacturers supplying to retailers or e-commerce
Example: Your unit produces 500 kg of mixed fruit jelly per day and supplies to 10+ stores in your state.
Key Features:
- Issued by the State Food Safety Department
- Validity: 1 to 5 years
- Requires detailed documentation and possible inspection
- Fee ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 based on state and duration
🌍 FSSAI Central License (Form B)
Ideal for:
- Large-scale manufacturers
- Exporters
- Companies with pan-India distribution
Example: You produce 3,000 kg of jam daily and export to the Middle East or supply to national retail chains.
Key Features:
- Issued by FSSAI headquarters in Delhi
- Mandatory for importers and multi-state operators
- Stricter compliance and regular audits
- Fees range from ₹7,500 to ₹10,000 (depending on validity)
⚠️ Note: If your business operates in more than one state, you need a Central License for the head office and State Licenses for each manufacturing or storage unit.
Eligibility Criteria for Jam & Jelly Manufacturers
Your eligibility for a specific FSSAI license depends on three key factors:
- Annual turnover
- Daily production capacity
- Nature of business (home-based, factory, exporter)
Let’s explore each category in detail.
🏡 1. Small-Scale Producers (Eligible for Basic Registration)
Who qualifies?
- Individuals or sole proprietors making jam/jelly from home
- Daily production ≤ 100 kg/litre
- Annual turnover ≤ ₹12 lakh
- Selling locally (village, town, or nearby cities)
Examples:
- Homemakers selling homemade jams online
- Organic farmers making preserves from their orchard fruits
- Women self-help groups producing fruit jelly
Benefits:
- Easy to apply
- Low cost
- Quick processing (7–10 days)
Limitations:
- Cannot supply to large retailers
- Not eligible for export
- Limited branding and scalability
🏭 2. Medium-Scale Factories (Eligible for State License)
Who qualifies?
- Registered companies or partnerships
- Daily production: 100 kg to 2,000 kg
- Turnover: ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore
- Operating within one state
Examples:
- A small factory producing 800 kg of guava jelly per day
- A brand selling across multiple cities in Maharashtra
- A unit supplying to local supermarkets and online stores
Benefits:
- Can scale distribution
- Eligible for e-commerce partnerships
- Can apply for AGMARK or organic certification later
Requirements:
- Proper manufacturing facility
- Basic food safety plan
- Water and waste management systems
🏢 3. Large Manufacturers (Eligible for Central License)
Who qualifies?
- Companies with turnover > ₹20 crore
- Production > 2,000 kg per day
- Exporters or multi-state operators
- Units with automated bottling and pasteurization
Examples:
- A jam brand supplying to Big Bazaar nationwide
- An exporter shipping mango jelly to the UAE
- A food processing unit with ISO and HACCP certifications
Benefits:
- Pan-India operations
- Export eligibility
- Attracts investors and bulk buyers
Requirements:
- Full food safety management system
- Lab testing facility or tie-up
- Trained food safety supervisor
- Regular audits and compliance reports
Documents Required for FSSAI License for Jam & Jelly Manufacturers
The documents vary slightly depending on the type of license, but here’s a comprehensive checklist for all categories.
🔹 For All Applicants (Basic, State, Central)
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Photo ID & Address Proof | Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, Passport (for proprietor/partners/directors) |
| Address Proof of Premises | Rent agreement, electricity bill, property tax receipt, sale deed |
| Business Entity Proof | Partnership deed, Certificate of Incorporation (for Pvt Ltd), GSTIN, MSME registration |
| List of Food Categories | Jam, Jelly, Fruit Preserves (as per FSSAI classification) |
| Photograph of Proprietor/Partner/Director | Recent passport-size photo |
🔹 For State & Central Licenses Only
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan | Describes hygiene, storage, processing, and recall procedures |
| Layout Plan of Manufacturing Unit | Floor plan showing raw material storage, processing area, packaging, washrooms |
| List of Machinery & Equipment | Blender, cooker, filler, sealer, pasteurizer, etc. |
| Water Test Report | From NABL-accredited lab (for potability) |
| NOC from Municipality/Pollution Control Board | If required by local authority |
| MOU with NABL Lab (for Central License) | For regular product testing |
| Details of Food Safety Officer (if employed) | Name, qualification, experience |
✅ Pro Tip: Always scan and save high-quality PDFs of all documents. Use clear filenames like “Aadhaar_Proprietor.pdf” or “Layout_Plan_Jam_Unit.pdf”.
Step-by-Step Application Process via FoSCoS Portal
The entire FSSAI licensing process is 100% online through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Follow these 7 simple steps to apply:
✅ Step 1: Create an Account on FoSCoS
- Visit https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
- Click on “Register” (top right)
- Select “Food Business Operator (FBO)”
- Enter:
- Mobile number
- Email ID
- Create password
- Verify via OTP
- Log in
📌 Note: Use a valid mobile number and email—all communications will be sent here.
✅ Step 2: Select License Type
Once logged in:
- Go to “Apply for License/Registration”
- Choose:
- Basic Registration (Turnover ≤ ₹12 lakh)
- State License (Turnover ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore)
- Central License (Turnover > ₹20 crore or multi-state)
💡 Confused? Use the FSSAI License Eligibility Calculator on the portal.
✅ Step 3: Fill Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central)
For Basic Registration (Form A):
- Business name
- Proprietor/partner details
- Address of premises
- Food categories (select “Fruit Products” → “Jam, Jelly, Marmalade”)
- Annual turnover
- Production capacity
For State/Central License (Form B):
- All of the above
- GSTIN
- MSME registration (if any)
- Layout plan upload
- Machinery list
- FSMS plan
- Water test report
- NOC (if applicable)
✅ Double-check: All details must match your documents exactly.
✅ Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Click “Upload Documents” and attach:
- ID & address proof
- Premises proof
- Business registration
- Layout plan
- Machinery list
- Water test report (for State/Central)
- NOC (if applicable)
📁 File format: PDF or JPEG, max 2 MB per file.
✅ Step 5: Pay the License Fee
| License Type | Fee (1 Year) | Max Validity | Total Cost (5 Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100 | 1 year | ₹500 |
| State License | ₹2,000–₹5,000 | 5 years | ₹10,000–₹25,000 |
| Central License | ₹7,500–₹10,000 | 5 years | ₹37,500–₹50,000 |
Payment Modes:
- Credit/Debit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI
💳 Save the payment receipt—you’ll need it for tracking.
✅ Step 6: Submit Application
After payment:
- Review all details
- Click “Submit”
- You’ll receive an Application Reference Number (ARN)
🕒 Processing Time:
- Basic: 7–10 days
- State: 30–60 days
- Central: 60–90 days
✅ Step 7: Track & Receive License
- Log in to FoSCoS
- Go to “Track Application Status”
- Enter ARN
- Once approved, download your FSSAI License PDF
🖨️ Print and display the license at your manufacturing unit and on product packaging.
Special Compliance for Jam & Jelly Manufacturing
FSSAI has specific standards for fruit preserves under FSS (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.
Here’s what you must comply with as a jam & jelly manufacturer.
🍓 1. Definition & Standards
| Product | Definition | Minimum Fruit Content | Soluble Solids (°Brix) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jam | Cooked mixture of fruit pulp & sugar | ≥ 45% | ≥ 68.5% |
| Jelly | Clear product from fruit juice | ≥ 45% | ≥ 65% |
| Marmalade | Contains fruit peel (e.g., orange) | ≥ 20% fruit | ≥ 65% |
⚠️ Violation = Product recall or penalty
🧼 2. Hygiene & Manufacturing Requirements
Your unit must maintain:
- Clean, pest-free environment
- Separate areas for raw material, processing, packaging
- Potable water supply
- Handwashing stations with soap and sanitizer
- Proper waste disposal system
- Staff hygiene (hair nets, gloves, aprons)
✅ Best Practice: Conduct monthly internal audits using FSSAI’s self-checklist.
🧪 3. Permissible Additives & Preservatives
| Additive | Permissible Limit | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium Benzoate | 250 mg/kg | Prevents mold & yeast |
| Potassium Sorbate | 1,000 mg/kg | Extends shelf life |
| Citric Acid | As needed | Adjusts pH, enhances flavor |
| Pectin | As needed | Thickening agent |
❌ Banned: Formalin, urea, synthetic colors (unless approved)
🏷️ 4. Labeling Rules for Jam & Jelly
Every jar must display:
- FSSAI logo and license number
- Product name (e.g., “Strawberry Jam”)
- List of ingredients (in descending order)
- Net weight
- Name & address of manufacturer
- Batch number
- Date of manufacture & expiry (Mfg: Exp = 12–18 months)
- Storage instructions (“Store in a cool, dry place”)
- Nutritional information (for packs > 100g)
- Vegetarian symbol (green dot)
✅ Example Label:
FSSAI License No: 1234567890
Product: Mixed Fruit Jam
Ingredients: Sugar, Mixed Fruit Pulp (Apple, Pineapple, Mango) (45%), Water, Citric Acid, Pectin, Sodium Benzoate (250 ppm)
Net Wt: 200g
Mfg Date: 01/04/2025 | Exp Date: 01/10/2026
Manufactured by: XYZ Foods, 123 Food Lane, Mumbai🧫 5. Quality Testing Requirements
FSSAI mandates regular testing for:
- Microbial load (E. coli, yeast, mold)
- Preservative levels
- Sugar content (°Brix)
- pH level (should be < 4.5 to prevent botulism)
- Heavy metals (lead, arsenic)
🏢 Large units must have in-house lab or tie-up with NABL-accredited lab.
Fees & Validity of FSSAI License
Understanding the cost and renewal process helps in budgeting and compliance planning.
💰 FSSAI License Fees (2024–2025)
| License Type | 1 Year | 2 Years | 3 Years | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100 | ₹200 | ₹300 | ₹500 |
| State License | ₹2,000 | ₹4,000 | ₹6,000 | ₹10,000 |
| Central License | ₹7,500 | ₹15,000 | ₹22,500 | ₹37,500 |
💡 Tip: Paying for 5 years upfront reduces per-year cost and avoids renewal delays.
📅 Validity & Renewal Process
- All licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years
- Renewal must be applied 30–60 days before expiry
- Same process as new application (via FoSCoS)
- Late renewal incurs ₹100/day penalty (max 30 days)
- After 30 days, license lapses and you must reapply
✅ Set calendar reminders for renewal dates.
Tips for Faster FSSAI Approval
Many applications get delayed due to avoidable mistakes. Follow these pro tips to ensure smooth approval:
✅ 1. Match All Details Across Documents
Ensure the name, address, and PAN are identical in:
- Aadhaar
- GSTIN
- Rent agreement
- Business registration
✅ 2. Use Correct Food Category
Select:
Food Category: Fruits & Vegetables
Sub-Category: Fruit Products
Product Type: Jam, Jelly, Marmalade
✅ 3. Submit a Clear Layout Plan
Use a simple hand-drawn or digital sketch showing:
- Entry/exit points
- Raw material storage
- Cooking area
- Filling & sealing station
- Packaging zone
- Washrooms
✅ 4. Avoid Overstating Capacity
Don’t claim 500 kg/day if you’re currently making 50 kg. Start small and upgrade later.
✅ 5. Get Water Tested Early
Use a NABL-accredited lab. The report is valid for 6 months.
✅ 6. Write a Simple FSMS Plan
Include:
- Daily cleaning schedule
- Pest control measures
- Staff hygiene rules
- Recall procedure
📄 Template available on FoSCoS portal under “Guidelines”.
✅ 7. Respond Promptly to Queries
FSSAI may send emails/SMS for clarification. Reply within 15 days.
Post-License Compliance – What Comes After Approval?
Getting the license is just the beginning. Ongoing compliance is crucial.
📋 1. File Annual Returns
All FBOs must file Annual Return (Form D) by 31st May each year.
What to report:
- Total turnover
- Quantity of products manufactured
- Export details (if any)
📌 Exemption: Basic Registration holders are not required to file annual returns.
📚 2. Maintain Records
Keep these records for at least 2 years:
- Raw material purchase bills
- Batch-wise production logs
- Testing reports
- Sales invoices
- Pest control records
- Staff training records
✅ Digital records (Excel, Google Sheets) are acceptable.
🔍 3. Allow Inspections
FSSAI officers can visit your unit unannounced to:
- Check hygiene
- Verify documents
- Collect samples for testing
🧼 Always keep the unit clean and documents ready.
🧪 4. Conduct Regular Testing
- In-house testing for pH, °Brix, appearance
- External testing (quarterly) for preservatives and microbes
🏢 Central License holders must test every batch before dispatch.
Case Study: How FSSAI Compliance Transformed “Berry Bliss” Jam Co.
Background:
Riya Mehta, a homemaker from Pune, started making organic strawberry jam in her kitchen. She sold 30–40 jars monthly via WhatsApp, earning ₹8,000/month.
Challenge:
Local stores refused to stock her product. BigBasket rejected her application due to no FSSAI license.
Action Taken:
- Registered her brand as a sole proprietorship
- Obtained FSSAI Basic Registration (₹100)
- Upgraded to State License after 6 months (turnover crossed ₹12 lakh)
- Adopted FSSAI-compliant labeling
- Started testing with a local NABL lab
Results:
- Got listed on BigBasket and Amazon
- Secured supply deal with 30+ retail stores
- Exported 500 jars to Dubai via e-commerce
- Revenue grew to ₹18 lakh/year
- Brand valued at ₹50 lakh in 2 years
🎯 Key Takeaway: FSSAI compliance wasn’t a cost—it was an investment in credibility and growth.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Ignoring FSSAI rules can lead to heavy fines, legal action, and business shutdown.
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Operating without license | ₹5 lakh fine + imprisonment up to 6 months |
| Misleading labeling | ₹3 lakh fine |
| Excess preservatives | ₹2 lakh fine + product recall |
| Unhygienic conditions | ₹2 lakh fine + license suspension |
| Selling expired jam | ₹1 lakh fine per incident |
| Repeat offense | License cancellation + higher penalties |
⚠️ Real Example: In 2023, a jam unit in Gujarat was fined ₹4.2 lakh for using unapproved colors and fake FSSAI numbers.
Conclusion: Why Timely FSSAI Registration is a Smart Business Move
The jam and jelly industry in India is ripe with opportunities—but only for those who play by the rules.
Obtaining your FSSAI license for jam & jelly manufacturers is not just about avoiding penalties. It’s about:
- Building a trustworthy brand
- Accessing larger markets
- Ensuring product safety
- Scaling sustainably
Whether you’re a home-based entrepreneur or a large exporter, FSSAI compliance is your foundation for success.
The process is simple, affordable, and entirely online. With the right preparation, you can get your license in under 30 days and start selling with confidence.
FAQs – FSSAI License for Jam & Jelly Manufacturers
1. Do I need an FSSAI license if I make jam at home and sell online?
Yes. If you sell commercially—even via WhatsApp or Instagram—you need FSSAI Basic Registration.
2. Can I use the same FSSAI license for multiple products?
Yes. One license covers all food categories you declare (e.g., jam, jelly, squash).
3. How long does it take to get an FSSAI license?
- Basic: 7–10 days
- State: 30–60 days
- Central: 60–90 days
4. Is FSSAI license required for export?
Yes. Exporters must have a Central FSSAI License and may need additional certifications.
5. Can I apply for FSSAI license without GSTIN?
Yes, for Basic Registration. But State/Central licenses require GSTIN.
6. What is the minimum space required for a jam manufacturing unit?
No fixed size. But you must have separate areas for storage, cooking, and packaging.
7. Do I need a lab for FSSAI compliance?
Not mandatory for small units. But Central License holders must have a tie-up with a NABL lab.
8. Can I transfer my FSSAI license to someone else?
No. The license is non-transferable. The new owner must apply fresh.
9. Is FSSAI license valid across India?
Yes, but if you operate in multiple states, you need separate licenses for each unit.
10. What happens if my FSSAI application is rejected?
You’ll get a reason. You can correct and reapply within 30 days.
11. Do I need to renew FSSAI license every year?
No. You can choose validity from 1 to 5 years. Renew before expiry.
12. Can I use artificial flavors in jam?
Yes, but only FSSAI-approved flavors and within prescribed limits.
13. Is organic certification mandatory with FSSAI?
No. But if you claim “organic,” you need NPOP or Jaivik Bharat certification.
14. Can I get FSSAI license without a commercial kitchen?
Yes, for Basic Registration. But for State/Central, a dedicated unit is preferred.
15. Where can I check if an FSSAI license is genuine?
Visit https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in and enter the license number.
Call to Action: Get Your FSSAI License Today!
Don’t let your delicious jams and jellies go unnoticed. Get FSSAI compliant today and unlock the full potential of your business.
👉 Visit FoSCoS Portal
👉 Apply for your license in under 30 minutes
👉 Start selling legally, safely, and successfully
Need help? Consult an FSSAI expert or contact us for end-to-end application support.
Your journey from kitchen to commerce starts with one click. Get licensed. Get growing.
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