Food safety and hygiene play a critical role in running any food-related business in India. To regulate and standardize food products, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Any food business operator (FBO)—whether a manufacturer, distributor, trader, or restaurant owner—must obtain an FSSAI Registration or FSSAI License depending on the scale of operations. Along with that, having proper FSSAI Certification boosts credibility and ensures legal compliance. This blog explains everything about FSSAI Registration, Certification, License, and the role of FSSAI Consultants.
What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI Registration is the basic requirement for small-scale food businesses in India. It is mandatory for petty food manufacturers, small retailers, or those with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
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Who needs it?
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Small food vendors
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Cottage industries
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Small retailers dealing in food
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Temporary stall holders
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The FSSAI Registration number is a 14-digit number that must be displayed on the food package or premises. It ensures transparency, accountability, and adherence to food safety standards.
What is FSSAI Certification?
FSSAI Certification is proof that a food product or business complies with the food safety guidelines issued by the authority. It not only fulfills the legal requirement but also acts as a quality assurance for customers.
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Benefits of FSSAI Certification
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Enhances consumer trust and brand image
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Helps in business expansion and partnerships
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Mandatory for export of food products
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Assures safety, hygiene, and quality compliance
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For businesses aiming to build a strong reputation in the food industry, FSSAI Certification is a vital asset.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
Depending on the size and turnover of the business, FSSAI offers three types of licenses.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
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For petty food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh
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Small vendors, hawkers, and home-based food businesses usually fall under this
2. State FSSAI License
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Required for businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore per year
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Applicable for medium-sized manufacturers, storage units, and restaurants operating at state level
3. Central FSSAI License
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Mandatory for large-scale businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore
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Also required for importers, exporters, and food businesses operating in multiple states
Having the correct FSSAI License ensures compliance and prevents legal penalties.
Why is FSSAI License Important?
An FSSAI License is not just a legal formality; it plays a key role in business credibility and consumer trust.
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Legal Requirement: Operating a food business without FSSAI License is an offense under the Food Safety Act.
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Market Trust: Customers prefer licensed food businesses as it ensures safety and hygiene.
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Business Expansion: Major e-commerce platforms and retailers allow only licensed sellers.
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Export Opportunities: Exporting food products requires FSSAI Certification and License.
Thus, whether you run a food cart or a multinational chain, obtaining an FSSAI License is crucial.
Role of FSSAI Consultants
Many businesses struggle with the documentation, application, and compliance process. This is where FSSAI Consultants play an important role.
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Services Provided by FSSAI Consultants:
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Guidance on choosing the right license type (Basic, State, or Central)
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Assistance in preparing and filing documents
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Support in FSSAI Registration and Certification process
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Renewal and modification of licenses
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Advisory on FSSAI compliance and audits
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With professional help from FSSAI Consultants, businesses can avoid delays, errors, and rejections in the licensing process.
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration and License
The list of documents may vary depending on the license type, but generally includes:
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Passport-size photograph of the applicant
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Identity proof (Aadhar, PAN, or voter ID)
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Address proof of business premises
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Food safety management plan
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List of food products to be handled
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Import-export code (for import/export businesses)
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Partnership deed or certificate of incorporation (for companies/partnerships)
Proper documentation ensures smooth processing of FSSAI License applications.
FSSAI License Validity and Renewal
The FSSAI License is generally issued for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years. Businesses must apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiry. Failure to renew on time may lead to penalties and business disruption. Regular compliance and timely renewal ensure hassle-free operations.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating without an FSSAI License can attract heavy fines and even imprisonment. Some penalties include:
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₹25,000 for selling unsafe food
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₹3 lakh for sub-standard food items
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₹10 lakh for misleading advertisements
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Business closure in case of repeated violations
This makes compliance with FSSAI Certification and Licensing extremely important for food businesses.
Conclusion
Kickstart Business Advisors LLP is one of the leading business consulting firms in India, helping entrepreneurs and companies obtain registrations, licenses, and certifications hassle-free. For any food business in India, obtaining FSSAI Registration, FSSAI Certification, and FSSAI License is not just a legal necessity but also a mark of credibility and trust. From small street vendors to multinational food chains, FSSAI compliance ensures safe, hygienic, and quality food for consumers. Professional FSSAI Consultants make the process easier by handling documentation, applications, and renewals efficiently. In today’s competitive food industry, having a valid FSSAI License is essential for growth, reputation, and customer trust.