In this guide · 9 sections
If you make, sell, store, transport or serve food in India, you almost certainly need an FSSAI registration or license. It is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Beyond being a legal requirement, it is what delivery apps, retailers and customers look for before they trust your food.
What FSSAI registration is
An FSSAI registration or license gives your food business a 14-digit number that must appear on your packaging, menu cards, bills and premises. It confirms that the business is known to the food safety authority and is expected to follow hygiene and safety standards.
Applications are made online on FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System).
Who needs it
Every Food Business Operator (FBO) covered by the law, including:
- restaurants, dhabas, cafés and cloud kitchens
- home bakers, tiffin services and home-based food sellers
- grocery stores, sweet shops and general stores selling packaged food
- manufacturers, processors and repackers
- caterers, canteens and event food stalls
- food importers, exporters and distributors
- storage, cold chain and transport businesses
- e-commerce food sellers and delivery-only kitchens
Even a small home business selling to a few customers needs at least a Basic Registration.
The 2026 turnover limits
From 1 April 2026, FSSAI revised the turnover limits for new applications:
| Category | Annual turnover | Government fee |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Up to ₹1.5 crore | ₹100 per year |
| State License | Above ₹1.5 crore to ₹50 crore | Generally ₹2,000–₹5,000 per year |
| Central License | Above ₹50 crore | ₹7,500 per year |
Turnover is not the only test. Importers, businesses operating in more than one state, units on central government premises such as railways and airports, and e-commerce food business operators need a Central License regardless of turnover.
Perpetual validity: under the revised framework, registrations and licenses remain valid unless suspended, cancelled or surrendered — there is no routine renewal, though you must stay compliant.
Why it matters for your business
- It is the law. Running a food business without the required license can mean imprisonment of up to six months and a fine of up to ₹5 lakh.
- Platforms require it. Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, Flipkart and quick-commerce apps ask for your FSSAI number at onboarding.
- Customers trust it. A visible FSSAI number tells buyers your food is made in a known, inspected place.
- It opens doors. Bank loans, supermarket listings, export orders and government tenders usually ask for it.
- It protects you. A valid license with proper records helps if a complaint or inspection comes up.
Documents you will need
For a Basic Registration:
- photo identity proof of the owner
- proof of premises (rent agreement, utility bill or ownership document)
- list of food products
- passport-size photograph
For a State or Central License, also:
- incorporation documents or partnership deed
- layout plan of the processing area
- list of equipment and machinery
- water test report from an accredited lab, where applicable
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan
- IEC, for importers and exporters
How to apply on FoSCoS
- Pick the right category based on turnover, activity and location.
- Fill the form — Form A for Basic Registration, Form B for State or Central License.
- Upload documents and pay the government fee.
- Review or inspection — the officer may ask questions or inspect the premises, especially for licenses.
- Download the certificate from FoSCoS once approved.
A Basic Registration usually comes through in about 7–10 working days. State and Central Licenses take longer because of scrutiny and inspection.
After you get it
- display the certificate prominently at your premises
- print the 14-digit number on labels, menus and bills
- file annual returns where your license requires them (mainly manufacturers and importers)
- modify the license when your address, products or ownership change
- upgrade to a State License once turnover crosses ₹1.5 crore
Common mistakes to avoid
- applying for Basic Registration when the activity needs a State or Central License
- selecting the wrong Kind of Business, which leads to rejection
- not updating the license after adding new products
- assuming online-only sellers don't need FSSAI
Frequently asked questions
Do home bakers need FSSAI registration?
Yes. Home-based food businesses need at least a Basic Registration, which is quick and inexpensive.
What is the difference between FSSAI registration and license?
Registration is for small businesses with turnover up to ₹1.5 crore. A license — State or Central — is for larger businesses and specified activities, and involves more documents and possible inspection.
Do I need to renew my FSSAI registration every year?
Under the revised framework, registrations have perpetual validity unless suspended, cancelled or surrendered. You still need to follow the rules and keep details updated.
I sell food only online. Do I need FSSAI?
Yes. Online food sellers need FSSAI, and every delivery and e-commerce platform will ask for the number.
What happens if I don't get FSSAI registration?
You can face penalties, including a fine of up to ₹5 lakh and imprisonment of up to six months, and platforms will not list your products.
