FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants

1. Introduction: Why FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants is Essential

India’s bottled water industry is booming. With rising health awareness and concerns about tap water safety, more people are turning to packaged drinking water. According to industry reports, the Indian bottled water market is expected to cross ₹1 lakh crore by 2027. This growth is driven by urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and a growing middle class.

But with opportunity comes responsibility. As a business owner in the bottled water sector, you’re not just selling a commodity—you’re providing a product that directly impacts public health. That’s why food safety and quality control are non-negotiable. A single contamination incident can damage your brand, lead to legal action, and even endanger lives.

This is where the FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants becomes critical. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ensures that every drop of water you bottle meets strict safety and hygiene standards. Whether you’re starting a small packaged drinking water unit or scaling up a mineral water bottling plant, an FSSAI license is mandatory.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants. From types of licenses and application steps to compliance rules, costs, and renewal, this guide covers it all. Whether you’re applying for FSSAI for Packaged Drinking Water Business or setting up a Mineral Water Bottling Plant, this is your go-to resource.

By the end of this article, you’ll understand:

The difference between packaged drinking water and mineral water
Which license type applies to your plant
How to apply online via FoSCoS
What documents are required
Common mistakes to avoid

Let’s dive in and ensure your bottled water business is safe, legal, and ready to grow.

2. What is FSSAI? Understanding the Food Safety Authority

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex body responsible for regulating food safety across the country. Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI operates under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

Its primary role is to set science-based standards for food products and ensure their safe production, storage, distribution, sale, and import. This includes everything from spices and dairy to packaged beverages—and yes, bottled water.

For bottled water plants, FSSAI acts as both a regulator and a guardian of public health. It ensures that the water you bottle is free from harmful contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, pesticides, and other pollutants. It also oversees labeling, packaging, and hygiene practices in your facility.

How FSSAI Regulates Packaged Drinking Water

FSSAI has laid down specific regulations under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaged Drinking Water) Regulations, 2011 and (Packaged Natural Mineral Water) Regulations, 2010. These rules define:

Acceptable levels of minerals and chemicals in water
Required testing frequency
Packaging and labeling norms
Hygiene standards for plant operations

Every bottled water plant must comply with these standards. Whether you’re producing packaged drinking water (treated tap or groundwater) or natural mineral water (from underground sources), FSSAI sets the benchmark.

FSSAI also works closely with other agencies like the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). While FSSAI focuses on food safety, BIS handles quality standards—especially for bottled water. For example, IS 14543 applies to packaged drinking water, and IS 13428 applies to natural mineral water. Both require BIS certification in addition to FSSAI licensing.

Why FSSAI Matters for Water Producers

An FSSAI license isn’t just about legality. It’s about credibility. When consumers see the FSSAI logo on your bottle, they know:

The water has been tested
The plant follows hygiene protocols
The product is safe to drink

Moreover, FSSAI conducts regular inspections and random sampling. If a plant fails tests, it can face penalties, suspension, or even closure. So compliance isn’t optional—it’s essential.

In short, FSSAI for Packaged Drinking Water Business is the foundation of trust, safety, and market access. Without it, you can’t operate legally—or ethically.

3. Why Bottled Water Plants Require FSSAI License

Running a bottled water plant without an FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants is illegal. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 makes it mandatory for all food businesses—including water bottling units—to obtain FSSAI registration or license.

But beyond legal compliance, there are strong practical and ethical reasons why every water plant must be FSSAI-licensed.

Legal Obligations Under the FSS Act, 2006

Section 31 of the FSS Act clearly states that no person shall commence or carry on a food business without an FSSAI license or registration. This includes:

Manufacturing
Processing
Packing
Selling
Distributing

Violation can lead to heavy fines, imprisonment, or both. The law treats food safety as a serious public health issue. Since water is a food product under FSSAI’s definition, it falls squarely under this rule.

Even small-scale units with low turnover must have at least a Basic FSSAI Registration. There are no exceptions for home-based or cottage industries when it comes to drinking water.

Consumer Trust and Market Acceptance

Today’s consumers are more informed than ever. They check labels, look for certifications, and avoid brands without proper credentials. The FSSAI logo on your bottle is a signal of safety and quality.

Retailers, supermarkets, and online platforms like Amazon and Flipkart require FSSAI certification before listing your product. Without it, your water won’t reach the market.

Moreover, institutional buyers—schools, offices, hospitals—only procure from FSSAI-licensed suppliers. So, if you want bulk sales, the license is non-negotiable.

Avoiding Penalties and Business Risks

Non-compliance can be costly. FSSAI officers conduct surprise inspections. If they find a plant operating without a license, they can:

Issue a show-cause notice
Impose fines up to ₹5 lakh
Order product seizure
Recommend prosecution

Even if you have a license but fail to renew it on time, you’re considered non-compliant. Late renewal attracts penalties, and continued operation can lead to cancellation.

In extreme cases, repeated violations can result in a lifetime ban from the food business.

Ensuring Public Health Safety

Water is fundamental to life. Contaminated water can cause diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. In India, waterborne illnesses remain a major public health concern.

FSSAI ensures that every bottled water plant follows strict treatment processes—like RO, UV, ozone, and filtration—to make water safe. Regular testing and documentation are required to prove consistency.

By mandating FSSAI licensing, the government ensures that only safe, tested water reaches consumers.

Support for Export and Expansion

If you plan to export your bottled water, FSSAI certification is a prerequisite. Many countries require proof of compliance with international food safety standards. An FSSAI license helps meet those requirements.

Even within India, expansion to new states or cities often requires additional licensing. But starting with the right FSSAI license simplifies future growth.

In short, the FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants is not just a legal requirement—it’s a business enabler, a trust builder, and a public health safeguard.

4. Difference Between Packaged Drinking Water & Mineral Water

Many entrepreneurs confuse packaged drinking water with mineral water. While both are bottled and sold as safe drinking options, they differ significantly in source, treatment, and regulatory requirements.

Understanding this difference is crucial when applying for FSSAI License for Mineral Water Bottling Plant or FSSAI for Packaged Drinking Water Business.

Packaged Drinking Water

This is water that comes from municipal supply or groundwater and is treated to make it safe for consumption. The treatment process may include:

Reverse Osmosis (RO)
Ultraviolet (UV) purification
Ozonation
Filtration
Deionization

The goal is to remove impurities, bacteria, and chemicals. After treatment, the water is packaged in bottles or pouches.

Commonly sold under brands like Bisleri (though Bisleri is technically mineral water), Aquafina, and local regional brands.

Regulatory Requirements:

Must comply with FSSAI’s Packaged Drinking Water Regulations, 2011
Requires BIS certification under IS 14543
Needs FSSAI license based on production capacity

Labeling must clearly state: “Packaged Drinking Water”

Natural Mineral Water

This water comes from natural underground sources like springs or aquifers. It contains naturally occurring minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

The key point: no minerals are added during processing. Only minimal treatment (like filtration or ozonation) is allowed to remove microbes—not to alter mineral content.

Brands like Kinley, Himalayan, and Kingfisher produce natural mineral water.

Regulatory Requirements:

Must comply with FSSAI’s Packaged Natural Mineral Water Regulations, 2010
Requires BIS certification under IS 13428
Needs FSSAI license, often Central License due to interstate distribution

Labeling must state: “Natural Mineral Water”

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Packaged Drinking Water	Natural Mineral Water
Source	Tap water or groundwater	Natural spring/aquifer
Treatment	RO, UV, filtration, etc.	Minimal (filtration, ozonation)
Mineral Content	May be removed or reduced	Naturally present, not added
BIS Standard	IS 14543	IS 13428
FSSAI Regulation	FSS (Packaged Drinking Water) Reg, 2011	FSS (Packaged Natural Mineral Water) Reg, 2010
Labeling	“Packaged Drinking Water”	“Natural Mineral Water”
License Type	State or Central (based on capacity)	Usually Central License

Why This Matters for FSSAI Licensing

The type of water you produce affects:

The BIS certification you need
The FSSAI license category (State vs Central)
The testing parameters for water quality
The labeling requirements

For example, if you claim your product is “natural mineral water,” you must prove the source and mineral content through geological surveys and lab reports. FSSAI and BIS will verify this.

Mislabeling can lead to penalties. Selling treated groundwater as “mineral water” is a violation.

So, before applying for FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants, decide: Are you producing packaged drinking water or natural mineral water? Your answer will shape your entire compliance strategy.

5. Types of FSSAI Licenses for Bottled Water Plants

Not all FSSAI licenses are the same. The type you need depends on your plant’s production capacity, annual turnover, and geographic reach.

There are three types of FSSAI licenses:

Basic FSSAI Registration
State FSSAI License
Central FSSAI License

Choosing the right one is crucial. Apply for the wrong type, and your application may be rejected—or worse, you could face penalties.

Let’s break down each type and help you decide which applies to your bottled water plant.

1. Basic FSSAI Registration

This is the simplest and most affordable option. It’s meant for small-scale food businesses.

Who Needs It?

Bottled water plants with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh
Units producing less than 500 liters per day
Home-based or cottage units

Validity: 1 to 5 years (renewable)

Fee: ₹100 per year

Issued By: Local Municipal Corporation or Designated Officer

Best For:

Small local vendors
Community water suppliers
Startups testing the market

Note: Even with Basic Registration, you must still comply with BIS standards and conduct water testing.

2. State FSSAI License

For medium-sized operations that sell within a single state.

Who Needs It?

Turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore per year
Production capacity between 500 liters to 50,000 liters per day
Units operating in one state only

Validity: 1 to 5 years

Fee: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (varies by state)

Issued By: State Food Safety Department

Best For:

Regional bottled water brands
Distributors supplying to local markets
Plants with moderate output

You must apply through the FoSCoS portal (Food Safety Compliance System), and inspection may be required.

3. Central FSSAI License

This is for large-scale, high-capacity, or multi-state operations.

Who Needs It?

Turnover above ₹20 crore per year
Production capacity above 50,000 liters per day
Units operating in multiple states or exporting
All importers and central manufacturers

Validity: 1 to 5 years

Fee: ₹7,500 per year

Issued By: FSSAI Headquarters (Central Authority)

Best For:

National brands (e.g., Bisleri, Aquafina)
Mineral water bottling plants
Export-oriented units

Central License is often required for FSSAI License for Mineral Water Bottling Plant due to interstate distribution.

How to Choose the Right License

Use this simple checklist:

Factor	Basic	State	Central
Daily Production	< 500 L	500–50,000 L	> 50,000 L
Annual Turnover	≤ ₹12 Lakh	₹12 Lakh – ₹20 Crore	> ₹20 Crore
Market Reach	Local	Single State	Multiple States/Export
Inspection Required?	Rarely	Yes	Yes
Application Portal	FoSCoS	FoSCoS	FoSCoS

Special Cases

100% Export Units: Even if turnover is low, you need a Central License.
Multiple Units: If you have plants in different states, each needs its own license.
Franchise Models: Each franchise outlet may need separate registration.

Always consult an FSSAI expert if you’re unsure. Applying for the wrong license can delay your launch.

6. FSSAI Regulations for Bottled Water Plants

Once you have your FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants, compliance doesn’t stop. You must follow strict operational, hygiene, and quality standards.

FSSAI has detailed guidelines under:

FSS (Licensing and Registration) Regulations, 2011
FSS (Packaged Drinking Water) Regulations, 2011
FSS (Packaged Natural Mineral Water) Regulations, 2010

Let’s explore the key areas every water bottling unit must follow.

1. Hygiene and Sanitation Standards

Your plant must maintain a clean, contamination-free environment.

Key Requirements:

Walls, floors, and ceilings must be smooth, washable, and non-porous
Adequate ventilation and lighting
Separate areas for raw water intake, treatment, bottling, and storage
Handwashing stations with soap and sanitizer
Staff must wear clean uniforms, caps, and gloves
No smoking, eating, or personal items in production areas

Daily Cleaning Logs must be maintained. FSSAI inspectors may ask for them during audits.

2. Water Source and Quality Testing

The quality of your input water determines the final product.

For Packaged Drinking Water:

Source can be municipal supply or borewell
Must test for 30+ parameters including:
pH
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
Hardness
Iron, Lead, Arsenic
Coliform bacteria
Pesticides

For Natural Mineral Water:

Source must be a protected natural spring or aquifer
Must submit geological survey report
Regular testing to prove consistent mineral content
No artificial addition of minerals

Testing Frequency:

Daily: pH, TDS, residual chlorine, turbidity
Monthly: Full chemical and microbiological analysis
Quarterly: Heavy metals and pesticides
Annually: Comprehensive audit by NABL-accredited lab

Keep all test reports for at least 2 years. FSSAI can demand them at any time.

3. Water Treatment Process

Your treatment system must ensure water is safe and meets BIS/FSSAI standards.

Common Treatment Stages:

Pre-filtration – Remove sand, silt
RO (Reverse Osmosis) – Remove dissolved salts
UV Treatment – Kill bacteria and viruses
Ozonation – Disinfect and improve taste
Post-filtration – Final polish

For mineral water, RO is not allowed if it removes natural minerals. Only microfiltration or ultrafiltration is permitted.

All equipment must be food-grade and regularly maintained.

4. Packaging and Labeling Guidelines

Packaging protects water from contamination. Labels inform consumers.

Packaging Requirements:

Bottles must be made of food-grade PET or HDPE
Caps must be tamper-proof
No reuse of bottles (unless for returnable glass bottles with proper cleaning)

Labeling Requirements (Mandatory):
Every bottle must display:

Product name (“Packaged Drinking Water” or “Natural Mineral Water”)
FSSAI license number (14-digit)
BIS certification mark (ISI mark)
Name and address of manufacturer
Net quantity (in ml or liters)
Batch number and date of manufacture
Best before date (usually 12–24 months)
Storage instructions (“Store in cool, dry place”)
Ingredients (if any added, like minerals)
Nutritional information (optional for water)

Font Size: At least 2 mm height for critical info.

Prohibited Claims:

“Pure” or “100% safe” without proof
Medical claims like “boosts immunity”
Misleading source descriptions

5. Transportation and Storage

Even after bottling, water must be handled safely.

Storage Rules:

Keep in dry, ventilated, rodent-proof warehouse
Away from chemicals, pesticides, or strong odors
Temperature below 30°C
First-In-First-Out (FIFO) system

Transportation Rules:

Vehicles must be clean and covered
No mixing with non-food items
Avoid direct sunlight and extreme heat

6. Staff Training and Record Keeping

All employees must be trained in:

Personal hygiene
Equipment handling
Emergency procedures

Maintain records of:

Daily production
Water test results
Maintenance logs
Complaints and recalls

These records prove compliance during inspections.

7. Recall and Complaint Procedure

You must have a system to handle consumer complaints and recalls.

If a batch is found contaminated:

Stop distribution immediately
Notify FSSAI within 24 hours
Initiate recall
Investigate root cause
Submit corrective action plan

FSSAI takes recalls seriously. Failure to act can lead to license suspension.

By following these FSSAI guidelines for packaged drinking water, you ensure safety, avoid penalties, and build consumer trust.

7. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI License

Applying for FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants is now fully online via the FoSCoS portal (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in).

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you apply smoothly.

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Click on “New Registration/License”

Step 2: Create an Account

You’ll need:

Mobile number (verified via OTP)
Email ID
Name of applicant
Address

After verification, you’ll get a User ID and Password.

Step 3: Select License Type

Choose based on your plant’s capacity and turnover:

Basic Registration (for small units)
State License
Central License

The system will guide you based on your inputs.

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

The form varies by license type. For State and Central Licenses, it’s Form B.

Key Sections:

Part I: Basic details (name, address, email, phone)
Part II: Premises details (address, map, ownership proof)
Part III: Food category (select “Packaged Drinking Water” or “Natural Mineral Water”)
Part IV: Turnover and production capacity
Part V: List of equipment and machinery
Part VI: Water source and treatment process
Part VII: Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan

Upload scanned copies of required documents (see next section).

Step 5: Pay the Fee

Fees are paid online via:

Credit/Debit Card
Net Banking
UPI

Fee Structure:

Basic: ₹100/year
State: ₹2,000–₹5,000/year
Central: ₹7,500/year

Keep the payment receipt.

Step 6: Submit Application

Review all details. Once submitted, you’ll get a 17-digit Application Reference Number (ARN).

You can track your application status using this ARN.

Step 7: Acknowledgment and Inspection

For Basic Registration: You’ll get an 8-digit FSSAI number within 7 days (no inspection).
For State/Central License: A Designated Officer or Food Safety Officer will schedule an inspection within 30 days.

During inspection, they’ll check:

Plant layout
Water treatment system
Hygiene practices
Document readiness

Step 8: Approval and License Issuance

If inspection is satisfactory:

License is issued within 60 days of application
You’ll receive a 14-digit FSSAI license number
Digital copy available on FoSCoS

If deficiencies are found, you’ll get a chance to correct them.

Step 9: Display the License

Print and display the FSSAI license at your premises.
Use the license number on all packaging and marketing materials.

Processing Time

License Type	Time to Approval
Basic Registration	7–14 days
State License	30–60 days
Central License	60 days (may vary)

Delays happen due to incomplete documents or failed inspections.

Tips for Faster Approval

Double-check all documents
Ensure your plant is inspection-ready
Respond quickly to queries
Hire a consultant if needed

The FoSCoS portal has helped streamline the process. But preparation is key.

8. Documents Required for FSSAI License

To apply for Bottled Water Plant FSSAI Registration, you need to submit several documents. Missing even one can delay your application.

Here’s a complete list based on license type.

Common Documents for All Licenses

Photo ID Proof of applicant (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID)
Address Proof of business premises (Rent Agreement, Electricity Bill, Sale Deed)
Photo of Proprietor/Partner/Director
List of Machinery and Equipment (with capacity)
Water Test Report from NABL-accredited lab (not older than 3 months)
Source of Water (borewell, municipal, spring) with proof
Plant Layout Plan (showing treatment, bottling, storage areas)
Food Safety Management Plan (FSMP) – A self-declaration of hygiene practices

Additional Documents for State & Central Licenses

Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
Partnership Deed (for firms)
MOA & AOA (for companies)
NOC from Municipality or Pollution Control Board
BIS Certification Copy (ISI mark for IS 14543 or IS 13428)
Declaration Form (Form B)
GST Registration Certificate (if applicable)

For Natural Mineral Water Plants

Geological Survey Report proving natural source
Mineral Analysis Report showing natural composition
Consent to Operate from State Pollution Control Board
Proof of Land Ownership near the spring

For Central License Only

List of States Where Product is Sold
Label Copy of final product
Recall Plan
Details of Quality Control Manager (if applicable)

Document Tips

All documents must be scanned in PDF or JPEG format
Size should be less than 2 MB
Name files clearly (e.g., “Water_Test_Report.pdf”)
Keep physical copies ready for inspection

Upload everything carefully on the FoSCoS portal. Incomplete submissions are the top reason for delays.

9. Cost of FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants

The cost of FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants varies by license type and includes both government fees and additional compliance expenses.

1. Government License Fees

License Type	Annual Fee
Basic FSSAI Registration	₹100
State FSSAI License	₹2,000 – ₹5,000
Central FSSAI License	₹7,500

You can pay for 1 to 5 years upfront. For example:

Central License for 5 years = ₹37,500

Fees are non-refundable.

2. Additional Compliance Costs

These are not part of the license fee but are essential for approval.

A. Water Testing Charges

Monthly Test (30+ parameters): ₹3,000 – ₹5,000
Annual Comprehensive Test: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000
NABL-Accredited Lab Required

B. BIS Certification

ISI Mark Application: ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Inspection & Audit Fees: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000
Annual Surveillance Fee: ₹3,000 – ₹7,000

BIS certification is mandatory for bottled water.

C. Plant Setup & Equipment

RO Plant: ₹2–10 lakh (depending on capacity)
UV/Ozone System: ₹50,000–₹2 lakh
Bottling Machine: ₹1–5 lakh
Laboratory Setup (optional): ₹1–3 lakh

D. Consultant Fees

FSSAI Consultant: ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 (one-time)
BIS Consultant: ₹15,000 – ₹50,000

Highly recommended for first-time applicants.

E. Label Design & Printing

Label Design: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
Printing with ISI & FSSAI: Additional cost

Total Estimated Cost (First Year)

Component	Small Plant (Basic)	Medium Plant (State)	Large Plant (Central)
FSSAI Fee	₹100	₹5,000	₹7,500
Water Testing	₹36,000	₹60,000	₹60,000
BIS Certification	₹25,000	₹35,000	₹50,000
Consultant	₹10,000	₹25,000	₹50,000
Miscellaneous	₹10,000	₹20,000	₹30,000
Total	₹81,100	₹145,000	₹197,500

Note: Equipment costs are separate and can range from ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh depending on automation.

While the FSSAI license fee itself is low, the real cost lies in compliance. But this investment ensures safety, legality, and long-term success.

10. Renewal & Modification of FSSAI License

Your FSSAI license isn’t permanent. It must be renewed every 1 to 5 years. Failure to renew makes your business non-compliant.

Renewal Process

Renewal is similar to the initial application.

Steps:

Log in to FoSCoS portal
Go to “Renewal of License/Registration”
Enter your 14-digit FSSAI number
Fill renewal form
Pay renewal fee (same as initial)
Submit

Timeline:

Apply up to 30 days before expiry
Can apply within 30 days after expiry (with late fee)
After 30 days, you must reapply as a new license

Late Fee:

₹100 per day of delay (for Basic)
10% of license fee per month (for State/Central)

Modification of License

If you expand your plant, change product type, or move location, you must modify your license.

Common Modifications:

Increase in production capacity
Change in food category (e.g., from drinking to mineral water)
New machinery added
Address change
Change in proprietor

Process:

Log in to FoSCoS
Select “Modification”
Upload new documents
Pay modification fee (₹1,000 for State/Central)
Inspection may be required

Do not make changes without approval. Unauthorized modifications can lead to penalties.

Why Renewal and Modification Matter

Keeps your license active
Avoids business disruption
Maintains consumer trust
Required for audits and inspections

Set calendar reminders for renewal dates. Letting your license expire can halt production and sales.

11. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Ignoring FSSAI rules can cost your business dearly.

The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 imposes strict penalties for violations.

Common Violations in Water Bottling

Operating without FSSAI license
Selling without BIS certification
Misleading labeling (e.g., “mineral water” from treated tap water)
Poor hygiene (dirty plant, untrained staff)
Failing water tests (high TDS, coliform presence)
Using non-food-grade bottles
Expired or unlabeled products

Penalties and Fines

Violation	Penalty
No FSSAI License	Up to ₹5 lakh fine + 6 months imprisonment
Substandard Water Quality	₹2–5 lakh fine
Misbranded Product	₹3 lakh fine
Unhygienic Conditions	₹2 lakh fine
False Advertising	₹10 lakh fine
Repeat Offense	Higher fines + license cancellation

FSSAI can also:

Seal your plant
Confiscate products
Prosecute the owner

Real-World Impact

In 2023, FSSAI conducted a nationwide drive and found over 200 unlicensed water plants. Many were shut down. Others faced fines up to ₹3 lakh.

One plant in UP was fined ₹4.5 lakh for selling water with E. coli contamination.

Compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about protecting lives.

12. Benefits of FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants

Getting your FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants offers more than just legal protection. It opens doors.

1. Market Expansion

Retailers, hotels, and institutions only buy from licensed suppliers. With FSSAI, you can:

Supply to supermarkets
Get listed on e-commerce sites
Win government tenders

2. Export Opportunities

Countries like UAE, USA, and UK require FSSAI certification for food imports. Your license is your passport to global markets.

3. Brand Credibility

The FSSAI logo builds trust. Consumers know your product is safe. This boosts loyalty and sales.

4. Access to Funding

Banks and investors prefer licensed businesses. It shows seriousness and compliance.

5. Legal Protection

If a customer files a complaint, your FSSAI license proves you followed standards. This can protect you in court.

6. Smooth Inspections

Licensed plants are treated as compliant partners, not suspects. Inspections become routine, not stressful.

7. Long-Term Sustainability

FSSAI compliance encourages good practices—clean plants, regular testing, trained staff. This leads to consistent quality and fewer recalls.

In short, the FSSAI for Packaged Drinking Water Business is not a burden—it’s a business advantage.

13. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced entrepreneurs make errors. Here are the top mistakes in FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants.

1. Not Conducting Regular Water Testing

Many plants test only during license application. But monthly testing is mandatory. Skipping it risks contamination and penalties.

2. Incorrect Labeling

Using “Mineral Water” for treated water. Forgetting the FSSAI number. Wrong font size. These are common errors that attract fines.

3. Using Expired License

Assuming the license is “forever.” It’s not. Renew on time.

4. Ignoring BIS Certification

FSSAI and BIS are both required. No ISI mark = illegal product.

5. Poor Record Keeping

No logs, no test reports, no training records. During inspection, this looks like negligence.

6. Applying for Wrong License Type

Applying for State License when you need Central. This delays approval.

7. Skipping Staff Training

Untrained staff can contaminate products. Train them regularly.

Avoid these mistakes, and your compliance journey will be smooth.

14. Tips for Smooth FSSAI Approval

Want fast, hassle-free approval? Follow these tips.

Prepare Documents in Advance
Ensure Plant is Inspection-Ready
Conduct Trial Runs of Treatment Process
Train Staff on Hygiene Protocols
Maintain Daily Logs from Day One
Hire an FSSAI Consultant
Double-Check Label Design
Respond Promptly to Queries

Preparation is 90% of success.

15. FAQs: FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants

Is FSSAI license mandatory for small bottled water plants?

Yes. Even if you produce 100 liters/day, you need at least Basic FSSAI Registration.

Can I sell water without BIS certification?

No. BIS certification (ISI mark) is mandatory for all packaged drinking and mineral water.

How long does FSSAI approval take?

Basic: 7–14 days
State: 30–60 days
Central: 60+ days

Is physical inspection required?

For Basic – No. For State/Central – Yes.

Can I apply for FSSAI license online?

Yes. All applications are via FoSCoS portal.

What if my license expires?

Apply within 30 days with late fee. After that, reapply as new.

Do I need separate license for each plant?

Yes. Each manufacturing unit needs its own license.

Can I change from State to Central License?

Yes. Apply for modification when your turnover or capacity increases.

16. Conclusion & Call-to-Action

The FSSAI License for Bottled Water Plants is not just a legal requirement—it’s the foundation of a safe, trusted, and scalable business.

From small local units to national brands, every water bottling plant must comply. The process may seem complex, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it’s manageable.

We’ve covered everything:

Types of licenses
Application steps
Documents and costs
Compliance rules
Renewal and penalties

Now it’s time to act.

Are you ready to get your FSSAI license?
Our team of food safety experts can guide you from application to approval. We help with:

Document preparation
Plant readiness audit
FoSCoS filing
BIS certification support

Get a Free Consultation Today!

Don’t risk your business. Get compliant, get licensed, and grow with confidence.

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