FSSAI License for Ready-to-Eat Food Manufacturers


1. Introduction: The Rise of Ready-to-Eat Food & Why FSSAI Matters

India’s food habits are changing fast.

Gone are the days when home-cooked meals ruled every kitchen. Today, busy lifestyles, urbanization, and digital food delivery platforms have made ready-to-eat (RTE) food a daily staple for millions.

From frozen biryanis and microwaveable curries to instant noodles and shelf-stable meals, RTE food is booming. The Indian RTE market was valued at over ₹25,000 crores in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12–14% over the next five years.

But with growth comes responsibility.

Every time someone heats up a packaged meal, they trust that it’s safe, hygienic, and made under strict quality checks. That’s where the FSSAI License for Ready-to-Eat Food Manufacturers becomes non-negotiable.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ensures that every packaged meal meets safety, hygiene, and labeling standards. Without a valid FSSAI license, selling RTE food is not just illegal — it’s a risk to public health.

For startups launching a new line of instant dal or established brands scaling up production, FSSAI compliance is the first step toward legitimacy, consumer trust, and business growth.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the FSSAI License for Ready-to-Eat Food Manufacturers:

  • What it is
  • Why it’s mandatory
  • Which type of license you need
  • How to apply online
  • Documents required
  • Costs involved
  • Common mistakes to avoid

Whether you’re running a small home kitchen or planning a large-scale RTE manufacturing unit, this guide will help you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and build a trusted brand.

Let’s dive in.


2. What is FSSAI? Understanding India’s Food Safety Authority

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the national body responsible for ensuring food safety across the country.

Established in 2006 under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI replaced multiple older food laws with a single, unified framework. Its mission? To regulate the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food so that every Indian gets safe and wholesome food.

Key Roles of FSSAI

  • Sets science-based standards for food products.
  • Regulates food additives, contaminants, pesticides, and packaging materials.
  • Licenses and registers all food businesses in India.
  • Conducts inspections and surveillance.
  • Promotes food safety awareness among consumers and businesses.
  • Approves new food products and ingredients.

Think of FSSAI as the guardian of your plate. It ensures that the samosa you buy from a roadside vendor and the frozen paneer tikka from an online store meet the same basic safety rules.

Why FSSAI Exists

Before 2006, India had over a dozen laws governing food — from the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act to the Meat Food Products Order. These were fragmented, outdated, and poorly enforced.

The FSS Act, 2006, changed that.

It created a single reference point for food regulation and empowered FSSAI to enforce strict quality norms. Now, every food business operator (FBO), big or small, must register or get licensed with FSSAI.

For Ready-to-Eat Food FSSAI Registration, this is especially critical.

RTE foods are often processed, packaged, and stored for days or weeks. If not handled correctly, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria. That’s why FSSAI has specific rules for hygiene, shelf life, labeling, and processing methods.

FSSAI’s Three-Tier System

FSSAI operates through a three-tier structure:

  1. Headquarters (Delhi) – Sets policies, standards, and guidelines.
  2. Regional Offices (8 zones) – Monitor enforcement across states.
  3. State Food Authorities – Implement FSSAI rules at the local level.

This system ensures that even small food units in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are covered under the food safety net.

So, whether you’re making instant idlis in Coimbatore or frozen parathas in Chandigarh, you fall under FSSAI’s watch.

And yes — you need a license.


3. Why RTE Food Manufacturers Need FSSAI License

You might wonder: “Can I sell my homemade ready-to-eat meals without a license?”

The short answer: No.

Under the FSS Act, 2006, every food business in India must have either an FSSAI registration or license, depending on the scale of operations.

For Ready-to-Eat Food FSSAI Registration, this rule applies even if you’re selling from home.

Let’s break down why this license is not just a legal formality — it’s essential for your business survival.

1. Legal Requirement Under FSS Act, 2006

Section 31 of the FSS Act clearly states:

“No person shall commence or carry on any food business except under and in accordance with the validity of a license.”

This means:

  • Selling RTE meals without a license is illegal.
  • You can be fined, prosecuted, or shut down.
  • Your products can be seized by food safety officers.

Even if you sell just 10 meals a day from your kitchen, you need at least a Basic FSSAI Registration.

2. Builds Consumer Trust

Imagine two brands selling frozen biryani online.

One shows the FSSAI logo and license number on the pack. The other doesn’t.

Which would you buy?

Most consumers today look for the FSSAI mark before buying packaged food. It signals that the product is safe, tested, and approved.

Having a license boosts your brand image and credibility.

3. Avoid Fines and Business Shutdowns

Non-compliance is expensive.

FSSAI conducts regular inspections. If they find your RTE unit operating without a license, penalties can include:

  • Fine up to ₹5 lakh
  • Imprisonment up to 6 months
  • Product seizure
  • Business closure

In 2023, over 12,000 food businesses were penalized for operating without FSSAI licenses. Many were small RTE startups unaware of the rules.

Don’t let ignorance hurt your dream.

4. Required for E-commerce & Retail Tie-Ups

Want to sell on Amazon, BigBasket, Swiggy, or Blinkit?

They all require a valid FSSAI license before listing your products.

Supermarkets and distributors also ask for it during vendor onboarding.

No license = No shelf space.

5. Enables Export Opportunities

Planning to sell your instant meals abroad?

Countries like the USA, UAE, and EU require proof of FSSAI certification as part of export documentation.

Without it, your products won’t clear customs.

6. Ensures Food Safety & Quality

An FSSAI license isn’t just a paper. It forces you to follow hygiene practices, maintain records, and ensure your RTE meals are safe to eat.

This protects your customers — and your reputation.

A single food poisoning case linked to your brand can destroy years of hard work.


4. Types of FSSAI Licenses for RTE Food Units

Not all food businesses need the same license.

FSSAI offers three types of licenses, based on your annual turnover and production capacity.

Choosing the right one is crucial. Get it wrong, and you could face penalties.

Here’s a clear breakdown for Ready-to-Eat Food FSSAI Registration:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration

For: Small-scale RTE manufacturers and home-based units.

Applicable if:

  • Annual turnover is up to ₹12 lakh
  • Production capacity is up to 100 kg/liter per day (for most RTE foods)
  • Manufacturing is done in a home kitchen or small facility

Examples:

  • Home chefs selling 20–30 meals/day
  • Small startups making frozen snacks
  • Cloud kitchens with limited output

License Number Format: Starts with “1XXXXX”

Validity: 1 to 5 years

Fee: ₹100 per year

This is the most common starting point for new RTE entrepreneurs.

2. State FSSAI License

For: Medium-sized RTE manufacturing units.

Applicable if:

  • Annual turnover is between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore
  • Production capacity is between 100 kg/liter and 2 MT per day
  • Operating in a single state

Examples:

  • Local brands selling RTE meals in one city
  • SMEs with small factories
  • Startups scaling up production

License Number Format: Starts with “2XXXXX”

Validity: 1 to 5 years

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

Note: Some states like Maharashtra and Karnataka have higher fees.

3. Central FSSAI License

For: Large-scale RTE food manufacturers.

Applicable if:

  • Annual turnover is above ₹20 crore
  • Production capacity is above 2 MT per day
  • Operating in multiple states or exporting
  • Running a 100% Export Oriented Unit (EOU)

Examples:

  • National brands like ITC, Nestlé, or Haldiram’s
  • Companies supplying to airlines, railways, or defense
  • Exporters of RTE meals to the Middle East or USA

License Number Format: Starts with “3XXXXX”

Validity: 1 to 5 years

Fee: ₹7,500 per year

Issued by the FSSAI headquarters in Delhi, not the state authority.


How to Choose the Right License for Your RTE Business

Use this simple checklist:

CriteriaBasicStateCentral
Turnover≤ ₹12 lakh₹12 lakh – ₹20 cr> ₹20 cr
Daily Production≤ 100 kg/L100 kg/L – 2 MT> 2 MT
OperationsSingle locationSingle stateMultiple states/export
InspectionMay be waivedUsually requiredAlways required

Pro Tip: If you expect to grow fast, apply for a State or Central license early. Upgrading later takes time and effort.

Also, cloud kitchens and food aggregators must have at least a State License if their combined turnover exceeds ₹12 lakh.


5. FSSAI Regulations for Ready-to-Eat Food

Getting a license is just the beginning.

To keep it valid, you must follow FSSAI guidelines for packaged food, especially for RTE items.

These rules cover everything from how you cook to how you label the packet.

Let’s break down the key FSSAI regulations for ready-to-eat food.

1. Hygiene & Sanitation Requirements

FSSAI follows GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and GHP (Good Hygiene Practices).

Your kitchen or factory must meet these standards:

Facility Design

  • Clean, well-ventilated space
  • Separate areas for raw material storage, cooking, packaging, and waste
  • No pests, leaks, or dampness
  • Smooth, washable floors and walls

Personal Hygiene

  • Staff must wear clean uniforms, caps, and gloves
  • No jewelry or nail polish
  • Regular handwashing
  • Health check-ups (especially for those handling food)

Equipment & Utensils

  • Made of food-grade stainless steel or approved materials
  • No rust, cracks, or contamination
  • Proper cleaning and sanitization schedule

Water Quality

  • Must meet BIS standards (IS 10500)
  • Regular testing for bacteria and chemicals
  • Use RO or UV filters if needed

Waste Management

  • Covered dustbins
  • Daily disposal
  • No open drainage near food areas

FSSAI inspectors can visit anytime. If they find poor hygiene, your license can be suspended.


2. Ingredient Sourcing Standards

What goes into your RTE meal matters.

FSSAI requires that all ingredients be:

  • Safe and wholesome
  • Free from adulteration
  • Sourced from licensed suppliers

Key Rules:

  • Use only FSSAI-approved food additives (e.g., preservatives, colors)
  • Avoid banned substances like artificial sweeteners in baby food
  • Maintain supplier invoices and quality certificates
  • Test raw materials for contaminants (pesticides, heavy metals)

For example:

  • If you use frozen vegetables, the supplier must have an FSSAI license.
  • If you add spices, they must be free from aflatoxins.
  • If you use oil, it must not exceed trans fat limits (≤2%).

Keep a raw material register with batch numbers and expiry dates.


3. Packaging & Labeling Rules (Critical for RTE Foods)

This is where many RTE brands fail.

FSSAI has strict labeling rules for ready-to-eat food. Every packet must show:

Mandatory Information on Label

  1. Name of food (e.g., “Vegetable Pulao – Ready to Eat”)
  2. FSSAI license number (e.g., 123456789012)
  3. Logo and FSSAI mark
  4. Name and address of manufacturer
  5. Batch or lot number
  6. Date of manufacture and expiry
  7. Best Before date (for shelf-stable products)
  8. Net weight or volume
  9. List of ingredients (in descending order)
  10. Nutritional information (per 100g or 100ml)
  11. Vegetarian/Non-vegetarian symbol (green or brown dot)
  12. Declaration of added sugar, salt, and fat (if applicable)
  13. Allergen information (e.g., “Contains wheat, milk, soy”)
  14. Storage instructions (e.g., “Store in a cool, dry place” or “Keep frozen at -18°C”)
  15. Usage instructions (e.g., “Microwave for 3 minutes”)

Special Rules for RTE Foods

  • Shelf-life must be scientifically validated (no guesswork)
  • Refrigerated RTE meals must show “Perishable – Keep Refrigerated”
  • Frozen meals must say “Keep Frozen”
  • Non-veg products must clearly state “Contains Egg/Meat/Fish”

Font & Language

  • Text must be clear, legible, and in English or Hindi
  • Minimum font size: 1.5 mm (for small packs)

Common Mistake: Using vague terms like “spices” instead of listing actual ingredients.

Fix: Say “cumin, coriander, turmeric” — not just “spices”.


4. Shelf-Life Declaration Norms

One of the biggest risks with RTE food is spoilage.

FSSAI requires that you scientifically determine the shelf life of your product.

You can’t just write “Best Before 6 Months” without proof.

How to Determine Shelf Life

  1. Conduct stability testing in a lab
  2. Store samples at different temperatures (room, refrigerated, frozen)
  3. Test for:
  • Microbial growth (bacteria, yeast, mold)
  • Texture and taste changes
  • Nutrient loss
  • Packaging integrity
  1. Based on results, declare a safe expiry date

Labeling Examples

  • “Best Before 90 Days from Manufacturing” (for shelf-stable)
  • “Use by 7 Days After Thawing” (for frozen)
  • “Consume Within 24 Hours of Opening” (for refrigerated)

Note: For thermostabilized (retort) meals, you can claim longer shelf life (6–12 months) if properly processed.


5. Food Safety Management System (FSMS)

All RTE manufacturers must implement a basic food safety plan.

This includes:

  • HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) for large units
  • GMP and GHP for small units
  • Internal audits every 6 months
  • Staff training records
  • Complaint handling system

Even home-based RTE businesses should maintain a simple checklist for hygiene, cooking temp, and storage.


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

Good news: You can apply for FSSAI for Instant Food Manufacturers 100% online.

The entire process happens on the FoSCoS portal (Food Safety Compliance System).

Here’s your step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

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

This is the official FSSAI portal for all registrations and licenses.

Avoid third-party sites — they may charge extra.

Step 2: Create an Account

Click on “Register” and choose:

  • Food Business Operator (FBO)
  • Enter your email and mobile number
  • Verify via OTP

You’ll get a User ID and password.

Step 3: Log In and Start Application

Log in and click “Apply for License/Registration”.

Select:

  • Type of FBO (Manufacturer/Processor)
  • Category (Ready-to-Eat Food)
  • License Type (Basic, State, or Central)

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

The form has 5 parts:

Part A: Basic Details

  • Business name
  • Address (with PIN code)
  • GST number (if any)
  • Email and phone
  • FBO category (Proprietorship, Pvt Ltd, etc.)

Part B: Premises Details

  • Layout plan of kitchen/factory
  • Water source details
  • Equipment list
  • Storage capacity

Upload:

  • Site plan (hand-drawn or digital)
  • Equipment list (mixers, freezers, packaging machines)

Part C: Food Category

Select:

  • Primary food category: “Cereal and Cereal Products”
  • Sub-category: “Ready-to-Eat Food”
  • List all products (e.g., frozen paratha, instant soup)

Part D: Declaration

  • Confirm that all info is true
  • Sign digitally or upload signature

Part E: Document Upload

Attach scanned copies of:

  • ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN)
  • Address proof (Electricity bill, rent agreement)
  • Partnership deed or MOA (for companies)
  • NOC from municipality (if required)
  • Food Safety Management Plan

We’ll cover documents in detail in the next section.

Step 5: Pay the Fee

Fees depend on license type:

LicenseAnnual Fee
Basic₹100
State₹2,000 – ₹5,000
Central₹7,500

Payment is online via:

  • Debit/Credit Card
  • Net Banking
  • UPI

After payment, you’ll get an Application Reference Number (ARN).

Step 6: Inspection (If Required)

  • Basic Registration: Usually no inspection
  • State License: Inspection by Designated Officer (DO)
  • Central License: Inspection by Central Food Safety Officer (CFSO)

The inspector will:

  • Visit your premises
  • Check hygiene, equipment, and records
  • Submit a report

You’ll be notified 2–3 days in advance.

Step 7: Approval & License Issuance

  • If no inspection: License issued in 7–10 days
  • If inspection: Within 30 days of report submission
  • You’ll get a digital license certificate via email and FoSCoS account

License Validity: 1 to 5 years (choose during application)


Tips for Faster Approval

  • Fill the form correctly
  • Upload clear, legible documents
  • Ensure your kitchen meets hygiene norms
  • Respond quickly to queries

Avoid rushing at the last minute. The process can take 2–6 weeks for State/Central licenses.


7. Documents Required for FSSAI License for RTE Units

You can’t apply without the right papers.

Here’s a complete list of documents required for FSSAI license for RTE food units, based on business type.

Basic Documents (for All Applicants)

  1. Photo ID Proof (Any one):
  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Voter ID
  • Passport
  1. Address Proof of Premises:
  • Electricity Bill
  • Rent Agreement + NOC from owner
  • Property Tax Receipt
  • Municipal Trade License
  1. Passport-Size Photograph of the FBO
  2. List of Food Products to be manufactured (e.g., frozen biryani, instant upma)
  3. Food Safety Management Plan (even a simple SOP for hygiene, cooking, storage)

For Proprietorship/Firm (Small Units)

  1. PAN Card of Business (if available)
  2. Partnership Deed (for firms)
  3. Declaration Form (signed by proprietor)

Additional Documents (For Companies, Pvt. Ltd., LLPs)

  1. Certificate of Incorporation (COI)
  2. Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA & AOA)
  3. Board Resolution authorizing the FBO
  4. PAN Card of Company
  5. List of Directors with IDs

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

  1. NOC from Municipality or Panchayat (for some areas)
  2. Layout Plan of Premises (showing cooking, storage, packaging areas)
  3. Equipment List (with capacity)
  4. Water Test Report (from NABL-approved lab)
  5. Source of Raw Materials (supplier licenses)
  6. Import Export Code (IEC) (for exporters)

For Central License Only

  1. Recall Plan (how you’ll handle defective batches)
  2. Lab Test Reports for 2–3 product batches
  3. GMP/HACCP Certification (for large units)

Pro Tip: Keep scanned copies ready in PDF or JPG format (max 2 MB each).

Upload everything neatly. Missing documents cause delays.


8. Cost of FSSAI License for RTE Units

How much does it cost to get FSSAI for Instant Food Manufacturers?

The fee depends on your license type and validity.

Here’s a clear breakdown.

1. Government Fees

License TypeAnnual FeeMax ValidityTotal Cost (5 Years)
Basic Registration₹1005 years₹500
State License₹2,000 – ₹5,0005 years₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Central License₹7,5005 years₹37,500

Note: Some states charge more. For example:

  • Maharashtra: ₹3,000/year for State License
  • Karnataka: ₹4,000/year

2. Additional Costs (Often Overlooked)

The government fee is just the start.

You may also spend on:

a) Consultant Fees

  • ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 (for help with application)
  • Optional but useful for first-timers

b) Lab Testing

  • Shelf-life testing: ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 per product
  • Water and ingredient testing: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000

c) Equipment Upgrades

  • Stainless steel counters, freezers, packaging machines
  • Can range from ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh+

d) Label Design & Printing

  • Professional labels with FSSAI mark: ₹10,000 – ₹50,000

e) NOC & Approvals

  • Fire NOC, Pollution Board NOC (for large units): ₹5,000 – ₹20,000

Total Estimated Cost

Business SizeTotal Setup + License Cost
Home-based (Basic)₹10,000 – ₹50,000
Small Factory (State)₹2 – 5 lakh
Large Plant (Central)₹10 lakh+

Good News: You can start small with Basic Registration and upgrade later.


9. Renewal & Modification of FSSAI License

Your license isn’t permanent.

It expires after 1–5 years. You must renew it before expiry.

Renewal Process

  1. Log in to FoSCoS portal
  2. Go to “Renew License”
  3. Fill the form (similar to new application)
  4. Pay renewal fee (same as initial)
  5. Submit

Timeline:

  • Apply up to 30 days before expiry
  • If expired, you can renew within 180 days with a late fee (₹100/day)
  • After 180 days, you must reapply

Tip: Set a calendar reminder. Letting your license lapse can lead to penalties.


Modifying Your License

Need to make changes? You can modify your license.

Common modifications:

ChangeProcess
Add new productsSubmit updated product list
Increase capacityApply for higher license (e.g., State to Central)
Change addressSubmit new address proof and layout
Change business nameProvide registration certificate
Upgrade from Basic to StateReapply under new category

All modifications are done online via FoSCoS.

You may need to pay a small fee (₹100–₹500) and undergo inspection.


10. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Skipping FSSAI rules can cost you big.

Here are the penalties for non-compliance in RTE manufacturing.

Common Violations

  1. Operating without FSSAI license
  2. False labeling (wrong expiry date, missing allergens)
  3. Using unapproved additives
  4. Poor hygiene and sanitation
  5. Selling expired or contaminated food

Fines & Punishments

OffensePenalty
No license₹5 lakh fine or 6 months jail
Misbranded food₹3 lakh fine
Substandard food₹5 lakh fine
False advertisement₹10 lakh fine
Repeat offenseDouble penalty + license cancellation

In 2022, a Delhi-based RTE brand was fined ₹4.2 lakh for selling meals without a license and mislabeling ingredients.

Another startup had its entire batch seized for not declaring milk content in a “veg” paratha.

Don’t risk it.


11. Benefits of Getting FSSAI License

Still unsure if the effort is worth it?

Here’s why getting Food Safety License for RTE Foods is a smart move.

1. Legal Protection

  • You can operate without fear of raids or fines
  • Full compliance with food laws

2. Builds Brand Trust

  • Consumers prefer FSSAI-marked products
  • Higher customer loyalty

3. Easier Market Access

  • Listed on Amazon, BigBasket, Swiggy Instamart
  • Accepted by retail chains and hotels

4. Export Readiness

  • FSSAI license is required for exporting RTE meals
  • Recognized by international regulators

5. Loan & Funding Eligibility

  • Banks and investors prefer licensed businesses
  • Easier to get MSME loans or startup funding

6. Digital Credibility

  • Add FSSAI number to website and packaging
  • Boosts SEO and online trust

7. Long-Term Scalability

  • Ready to expand production or enter new markets
  • No legal roadblocks

12. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many RTE startups fail not because of taste — but because of compliance errors.

Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid.

1. Skipping Shelf-Life Testing

  • Never guess expiry dates.
  • Always test in a lab.
  • Risk: Spoilage, customer complaints, penalties.

2. Using Unapproved Additives

  • Check FSSAI’s list of approved preservatives.
  • Example: Potassium sorbate is allowed; formalin is banned.
  • Risk: Product seizure, brand damage.

3. Mislabeling Ingredients

  • Don’t hide allergens.
  • Don’t say “natural flavors” — list actual ingredients.
  • Risk: Legal action, especially if someone has an allergic reaction.

4. Ignoring Storage Instructions

  • A frozen meal labeled “Store at Room Temperature” is dangerous.
  • Risk: Bacterial growth, food poisoning.

5. Delaying Renewal

  • Letting your license expire = operating illegally.
  • Risk: Fine, shutdown, loss of reputation.

Pro Tip: Assign one team member to handle FSSAI compliance.


13. Tips for Smooth FSSAI Approval

Want to get your FSSAI License for Ready-to-Eat Food Manufacturers without delays?

Follow these 7 expert tips.

1. Keep Production Records

  • Log daily output, batch numbers, and expiry dates.
  • Helps during inspections.

2. Maintain Hygiene Audits

  • Do weekly self-audits using FSSAI checklist.
  • Fix issues before they become problems.

3. Train Staff Regularly

  • Teach hygiene, labeling, and safety rules.
  • Keep training records.

4. Use Approved Packaging

  • Ensure pouches and trays are food-grade.
  • Avoid recycled plastic for direct food contact.

5. Partner with NABL Labs

  • Get regular testing for water, ingredients, and finished products.
  • Keeps you audit-ready.

6. Update FoSCoS Profile

  • Notify FSSAI of any changes (address, products, etc.).
  • Avoid compliance surprises.

7. Consult an Expert (If Needed)

  • Hire a food safety consultant for Central licenses.
  • Saves time and reduces errors.

14. FAQs: FSSAI License for RTE Food Manufacturers

Q1. Is FSSAI license mandatory for home-based RTE food businesses?

Yes. Even if you cook from home and sell 10 meals a day, you need Basic FSSAI Registration. It’s mandatory under the FSS Act, 2006.


Q2. How long does it take to get FSSAI approval?

  • Basic Registration: 7–10 days
  • State License: 15–30 days
  • Central License: 30–60 days
    Delays happen due to incomplete documents or inspection backlogs.

Q3. Can I sell RTE foods without BIS or AGMARK?

Yes. BIS and AGMARK are not mandatory for RTE foods. Only FSSAI license is required. BIS applies to items like cement or electronics; AGMARK is for agricultural commodities.


Q4. Is physical inspection always required?

  • Basic Registration: Usually no
  • State/Central License: Yes, inspection is mandatory. You’ll be notified in advance.

Q5. What is the validity of an FSSAI license?

You can choose 1 to 5 years. Longer validity reduces renewal frequency but costs more upfront.


Q6. Can I transfer my FSSAI license to someone else?

No. The license is non-transferable. If you sell your business, the new owner must apply for a new license.


Q7. Do I need FSSAI license for selling on Swiggy or Zomato?

Yes. All food aggregators require a valid FSSAI license (Basic, State, or Central) before listing your menu.


Q8. What if my FSSAI application is rejected?

You’ll get a reason (e.g., incomplete documents, hygiene issues). You can reapply after fixing the issue.


Q9. Can I apply for Central License if I operate in one state?

Only if your turnover is above ₹20 crore or production is over 2 MT/day. Otherwise, State License is sufficient.


Q10. Where can I check my FSSAI license status?

Visit https://foscos.fssai.gov.in, log in, and check “Application Status”.


Q11. Do I need separate licenses for multiple kitchens?

Yes. Each manufacturing unit needs its own FSSAI license, even if under the same brand.


Q12. Are there any exemptions for small RTE units?

Only very small home businesses (turnover < ₹12 lakh, production < 100 kg/day) qualify for Basic Registration — but no full exemption.


Q13. What is FoSCoS portal?

FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) is the official online portal for all FSSAI applications, renewals, and tracking. Replace the old Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS).


Q14. Can foreign companies get FSSAI license for RTE foods?

Yes. Foreign manufacturers exporting to India need a Central FSSAI License and must appoint an Indian agent.


Q15. How to display FSSAI license on packaging?

Print the 14-digit license number and FSSAI logo clearly on the label. Use the official logo from FSSAI website.


15. Conclusion: Get Compliant, Grow Confidently

The FSSAI License for Ready-to-Eat Food Manufacturers is not just a legal requirement — it’s your passport to trust, growth, and scalability.

From home kitchens to national brands, every RTE business must comply.

We’ve covered:

  • Why FSSAI matters
  • Types of licenses
  • Application process
  • Documents, costs, and renewal
  • Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Now, it’s time to act.

Don’t wait for a raid or a customer complaint.

Get your Ready-to-Eat Food FSSAI Registration today and build a brand that stands for safety, quality, and integrity.


Need Help with FSSAI License?

Applying for the first time? Upgrading your license? Facing compliance issues?

We offer expert FSSAI consultancy for RTE food businesses — from document prep to FoSCoS filing and inspection support.

📞 Call us or ✉️ Email today for a free consultation.

Let’s make your RTE dream safe, legal, and successful.


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