FSSAI License Guide: Stay Legal & Hygienic
FSSAI License Guide: Stay Legal & Hygienic
Blog Article
In today’s health-conscious and law-driven world, a food business is not just about taste—it’s about trust. Whether you’re selling homemade pickles, running a restaurant, or launching a food delivery startup, having an FSSAI license is crucial. It is a mark of safety, hygiene, and legal compliance that builds credibility with both customers and authorities. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essentials of the FSSAI license, its benefits, eligibility, types, how to apply, and how it helps you maintain hygienic and lawful food practices.
What is the FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. FSSAI is responsible for regulating and supervising food safety across the country. Every food business operator (FBO) in India must register with FSSAI or obtain a license based on their size, turnover, and type of business.
Why Do You Need an FSSAI License?
Legal Requirement
Running a food business without an FSSAI license is illegal in India. Non-compliance may result in heavy fines, license suspension, or even closure of your business.
Builds Customer Trust
An FSSAI license assures your customers that your food is prepared, stored, and served under hygienic conditions, following government safety norms.
Expands Your Market Access
Most e-commerce food platforms (e.g., Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon) require sellers to have a valid FSSAI license before listing products or restaurants.
Enhances Brand Image
The FSSAI license is a quality symbol. Displaying your 14-digit license number on packaging or in your store helps build brand authority.
Who Needs an FSSAI License?
The FSSAI license is mandatory for anyone involved in the food business, including:
- Home kitchens and bakers
- Restaurants and cafes
- Cloud kitchens
- Food manufacturers and repackers
- Street food vendors
- Wholesalers, traders, and retailers
- Food transporters and warehouses
- Exporters and importers of food items
- E-commerce platforms dealing in food
Types of FSSAI License
FSSAI offers three types of registration/licenses depending on the size and nature of the food business:
1. Basic Registration (FSSAI Registration)
- For small food businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs/year
- Ideal for: Home chefs, street vendors, and petty retailers
2. State License
- For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores/year
- Ideal for: Restaurants, medium-scale manufacturers, caterers
3. Central License
- For large businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crores/year or operations across multiple states
- Ideal for: Food exporters, importers, big manufacturers, e-commerce platforms
How to Apply for an FSSAI License
Follow these steps to register or apply for a license through the FoSCoS portal:
Visit the Official Portal
Head to the FSSAI registration website to initiate your food license application.
Provide Business Information
Fill in your personal and business details, including business name, address, food category, and upload key documents like your PAN card.
Review Application Details
Double-check all the entered data for accuracy before submission to avoid errors or delays.
Pay License Fees Online
Proceed to make the required payment based on your license type and business scale using the online payment facility.
Verify Using OTP
Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number or email to validate your application.
Site Inspection (If Needed)
For specific categories, an FSSAI official may conduct a physical verification of your premises to ensure food safety compliance.
Download Your License Certificate
Once approved, your FSSAI license will be issued and made available for download. Print and display it at your food business location.
Maintaining Hygiene: FSSAI’s Key Guidelines
Holding a license isn’t enough—you must also follow FSSAI’s hygiene and sanitation standards. Here are a few key practices:
Cleanliness of Premises
Ensure all surfaces, equipment, and utensils are clean and sanitized regularly.
Personal Hygiene
Food handlers should wear clean clothes, use gloves, and follow hand-washing practices.
Storage Practices
Food must be stored at appropriate temperatures and in sanitary conditions.
Pest Control
Regular pest control should be done to avoid contamination.
Record Keeping
Maintain logs of raw materials, food preparation, and temperature control systems.
What If You Don’t Comply?
Running a food business without an FSSAI license or ignoring hygiene standards can lead to:
- Fines up to ₹5 lakhs
- Cancellation or suspension of your license
- Seizure of goods
- Legal prosecution under the FSSAI Act
- Loss of customer trust and brand damage
Suggested read: Renewing and Upgrading Your FSSAI License
Conclusion
Whether you’re a small-scale home food seller or a large-scale food entrepreneur, obtaining and maintaining your FSSAI license is crucial for legal operation, customer trust, and long-term growth. It not only ensures that your food meets safety and hygiene standards but also boosts your brand reputation.
Report this page