How to apply for FSSAI license?

Published On: Feb 21, 2023Last Updated: Nov 28, 20234.1 min read

If you’re looking to start a food business in India, it is mandatory to obtain a FSSAI license or registration. FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, which regulates and supervises the safety and quality of food products in the country. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to apply and obtain Food license registration.

Who needs FSSAI License?

All parties involved in the food industry, known as FBOs (Food and Beverage Organisations) need a FSSAI registration or license. For example, you need an FSSAI license for cloud Kitchens, restaurants, food manufacturers, beverage distributors, etc. For Small organisations, the Basic license or registration is required. Whereas, for medium-sized entities, you need a FSSAI license. Some examples of organisations that need a FSSAI license are:

  • Food manufacturers
  • Cloud Kitchen owners
  • Restaurant owners
  • Dairy providers
  • Sweet shop owners

Eligibility for FSSAI

Before you apply for a FSSAI license, you need to ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Firstly, the applicant should be an Indian citizen or a company registered in India.
  • Secondly, the applicant should have a valid PAN card.
  • Finally, the applicant should have a food business that is compliant with the FSSAI regulations.

Types of FSSAI Licenses

FSSAI offers three types of licenses based on the size and scale of your business. These licenses are essential for all food businesses operating in India:

  • Basic FSSAI License/Registration: This license is suitable for small businesses that have an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs. Basic FSSAI license holders can operate their businesses within a single state.
  • State FSSAI License: This license is applicable for businesses that have an annual turnover of more than Rs. 12 lakhs but less than Rs. 20 crores. State FSSAI license holders can operate their businesses within a single state.
  • Central FSSAI License: This license is required for large-scale businesses that have an annual turnover of more than Rs. 20 crores. Central FSSAI license holders can operate their businesses across multiple states.

Step-by-step process for FSSAI license

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for and obtain FSSAI license:

Step 1: Determine which license

Firstly, based on the size and scale of your business, determine the type of FSSAI license you need.

Step 2: Gather the necessary documents

Secondly, gather the necessary documents required for FSSAI license, which include proof of identity, proof of address, proof of ownership or tenancy of the business premises, food safety management plan, list of food products to be handled, declaration form, and authority letter.

Step 3: Submit the application online

After that, submit the FSSAI license application online through the FSSAI website, filling in all the required details and uploading the necessary documents. You can also apply for a FSSAI license via the FoSCoS portal. It’s a newly launched portal. Its purpose is to streamline and simplify the FSSAI license and registration process. 

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Accordingly, pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of license you are applying for and the duration of the license.

Step 5: Wait for inspection

Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, a FSSAI inspector will visit your business premises to verify the information you provided in your application and check your food safety management plan.

Step 6: Receive your license 

Finally, if your application is approved and your business is found to be in compliance with FSSAI regulations, you will receive your license certificate with a unique 14-digit number that you need to display on all of your food products and marketing materials. If there are any errors, you can also modify your FSSAI license.

Cost involved in FSSAI

The cost of FSSAI license varies depending on the type of license you are applying for and the duration of the license. Generally, the entire process takes about one to two weeks.

Basic Registration from INR 3,000

  • All expenses
  • Government fees 
  • Preparation of Application 
  • Filing necessary documents 
  • Drafting of necessary forms
  • Drafting declaration letter 
  • Validity – 1 year

State License from INR 12,000

  • Everything included in Basic Registration 
  • Drafting of necessary forms
  • Solving queries generated by Department 
  • Filing of Form B
  • Validity – 1 year

Central License from INR 21,499

  • Everything included in Basic Registration 
  • Drafting of necessary forms
  • Solving queries generated by Department 
  • Filing of Form B
  • Validity – 1 year

Conclusion 

In conclusion, obtaining a FSSAI license or registration is mandatory for all food businesses operating in India. It ensures that the food products you manufacture and sell meet the safety and quality standards set by the FSSAI. By following the steps and eligibility criteria mentioned in this article, you can easily apply and obtain a FSSAI license for your food business. Make sure to keep the 14-digit unique number provided by the FSSAI visible on all your food products and marketing materials to ensure compliance.

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Monjima Ghosh
About the Author

Monjima Ghosh

Monjima is a lawyer and a professional content writer at LegalWiz.in. She has a keen interest in Legal technology & Legal design, and believes that content makes the world go round.

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