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Sat, Jan 03 2026
Raju Karn
Starting a food business in India? Whether you have a cloud kitchen, a restaurant, a food truck, or even a home-based kitchen, you need an FSSAI license to run it legally.
This license is given by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It makes sure that the food you sell is safe, clean, and follows government hygiene rules. It also helps customers trust your business more.
In this guide, you will learn everything in a simple way—how to apply for FSSAI registration, what types of licenses are there, how much it costs, how to renew it, and all the important things you need to know.
The FSSAI license is a legal approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, allowing you to manufacture, store, distribute, or sell food.
It provides your business with:
A 14-digit license number you can display on packaging and premises
Legal permission to run a food business in India
Recognition of your food safety standards
Any person or company involved in the food industry must get FSSAI registration. This includes:
Even if you are a home-based food business, you need to apply under the appropriate category.
Getting an FSSAI food license isn’t just about legal compliance. It also helps your business grow. Here’s how:
Builds trust with customers
Improves brand credibility
Helps expand to retail chains or online platforms
Ensures food safety and quality
Makes it easier to get funding or investors
FSSAI offers three main types of licenses based on your business size and turnover:
For small food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs
Suitable for: Home kitchens, small sellers, petty food retailers
Also known as Form A
For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores
Suitable for: Medium-sized manufacturers, restaurants, food processors
Known as Form B
For businesses with turnover above ₹20 crores or operating in multiple states
Required for: Large manufacturers, importers/exporters, major online platforms
Also uses Form B
� Want to check which category applies to you? Refer to the official FSSAI food license category list.
You can easily apply for an FSSAI license online through the FoSCoS portal (FSSAI) at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/. The process is simple and can be done from your phone or computer.
First, visit the official FoSCoS website and create your account using your email ID and mobile number. After that, log in and choose the correct registration option based on your business type. This step is important because it helps the system know what kind of food business you are running.
Next, select the right license type based on your business size and turnover. Small businesses usually need Basic Registration, medium businesses need a State License, and large or export businesses need a Central License. Choosing the correct type helps avoid delays or rejection.
After selecting the license type, you need to fill out the online application form. Here, you will enter details like your business name, address, type of food business (such as manufacturer, retailer, or distributor), and ownership type (proprietorship, partnership, etc.). Make sure all details are correct before moving to the next step.
Now you have to upload the required documents. These include identity proof like Aadhaar or PAN card, passport-size photo, proof of business address, food safety plan, list of food items you sell, and electricity or rent documents. For a Central License, you may also need extra documents like import-export code (IEC) and turnover proof.
Once documents are uploaded, you need to pay the application fee. The fee depends on the type of license you are applying for and the size of your business. After payment, your application will be submitted for review.
After submission, the food safety department will check your application. In some cases, a food safety officer may visit your shop or kitchen to inspect hygiene and safety conditions. If everything is correct and meets the rules, your application will be approved.
Once your application is approved, you can log in again to the FoSCoS portal (FSSAI) and download your FSSAI license certificate. This license allows you to legally run your food business in India.
To save on renewals, you can apply for a license valid for up to 5 years:
Basic: ₹500
State: ₹10,000–₹25,000
Central: ₹37,500
Running a small food business from home? You still need FSSAI registration.
Here’s what applies:
License Type: Basic Registration
Required: Aadhaar, kitchen photos, food safety plan
No physical inspection needed for many small kitchens
Fees: ₹100 per year or ₹500 for 5 years
Many home chefs and bakers in India are now registering under this model to stay compliant and build trust.
Important: FSSAI license must be renewed 30 days before expiry
Steps to renew:
Log in to the FoSCoS portal
Select “Renew License” option
Pay the applicable FSSAI license renewal fee
Submit updated documents (if required)
Wait for approval
If you miss the deadline, a late fee of ₹100 per day applies.
While the FSSAI registration process is online, many businesses prefer hiring an FSSAI license consultant to avoid mistakes.
A good consultant can:
Help with category selection
Prepare documents
Handle application and follow-up
Reduce rejection chances
If you're unsure about the process, especially for State or Central license, a consultant can save time and avoid errors.
Once you receive the license:
This builds trust and also meets government regulations.
Running a food business without an FSSAI license can lead to:
Legal action It’s important to stay compliant to avoid disruptions.
Avoiding these can help smooth application and renewal.
Getting an FSSAI license is not just a legal step—it’s a signal that your food is safe and your business is professional. Whether you're just starting your food business or growing to a national level, FSSAI registration is your first major milestone.
If you're confused or want to save time, PSR Compliance can help you apply for your FSSAI license—from document preparation to final approval.
Answer: Usually 7–30 days, depending on the type and completeness of documents.
Yes, even cloud kitchens or online delivery services must be registered.
No. You need at least Basic FSSAI registration for home kitchens.
Your license will expire, and you may face penalties or closure.
Yes, displaying it on your premises and packaging is mandatory.
Book your free consultation with our specialists today.