The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the apex regulatory body responsible for ensuring food safety and hygiene standards in India. It operates under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India and enforces the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 to regulate the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food products.
FSSAI registration or licensing is mandatory for all food business operators (FBOs) in India, including:
✅ Food manufacturers
✅ Food importers & exporters
✅ Restaurants, cafes, & cloud kitchens
✅ Dairy & meat processing units
✅ Packaged food businesses
✅ E-commerce food sellers (Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, Flipkart, etc.)
Types of FSSAI Registration & Licenses
The type of FSSAI registration depends on the business size and turnover:
| Type of License | Eligibility Criteria | Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Turnover up to ₹12 lakh | Small businesses, petty food manufacturers |
| State License | Turnover between ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore | Medium-sized food businesses, manufacturers, storage, transport, retailers |
| Central License | Turnover above ₹20 crore or involved in import/export | Large manufacturers, importers, exporters, e-commerce food businesses |
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
🔹 Legal Authorization – Comply with food safety laws and avoid penalties
🔹 Consumer Trust – Enhance brand credibility and market value
🔹 Export Benefits – Required for food exports under global trade norms
🔹 Hygiene & Quality Standards – Ensures product safety and quality
🔹 Government & Private Tenders – Eligibility to apply for contracts requiring FSSAI approval
FSSAI Compliance & Labeling Requirements
Businesses registered under FSSAI must adhere to strict food safety standards and label their products as per FSSAI guidelines, which include:
✔ FSSAI License Number – Must be displayed on packaging and premises
✔ Manufacturing & Expiry Date – Clearly mentioned on products
✔ Nutritional Information – Mandatory for processed and packaged foods
✔ Food Category & Allergen Warnings – Essential for consumer awareness
Common Non-Compliance Issues & Penalties
Failure to comply with FSSAI regulations can result in penalties, license cancellation, or even business closure. Some common violations include:
🚫 Operating without an FSSAI license – Penalty up to ₹5 lakh
🚫 Misbranding or misleading food labels – Fine of ₹3 lakh
🚫 Selling unsafe/adulterated food – Penalty up to ₹10 lakh or imprisonment
Role of FSSAI in Food Export & Import
For food exporters & importers, FSSAI ensures:
✅ Compliance with global food safety standards
✅ Clearance of imported food items at customs
✅ Lab testing & certification for safe consumption
✅ Registration of food processing & packaging facilities
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- 01 How do I verify my FSSAI license?
- FSSAI licenses can be verified online through the FSSAI website using the license number.
- 02 What is the difference between Basic, State, and Central FSSAI licenses?
- Basic Registration is for small businesses (turnover ₹20 crore, import/export, e-commerce).
- 03 Do I need an FSSAI license for a cloud kitchen?
- Yes, cloud kitchens and online food delivery businesses must obtain FSSAI licenses.
- 04 Is FSSAI required for home-based food businesses?
- Yes, even home-based businesses selling food products require FSSAI registration.
- 05 What is Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM)?aWhat are the food labeling requirements under FSSAI?
- FSSAI license number.Ingredients & allergens.Expiry date. Nutritional details
- 06 What is the penalty for selling food without FSSAI approval?
- Selling food without an FSSAI license can result in a ₹5 lakh penalty or imprisonment.
- 07 Can I start a food business without an FSSAI license?
- No, running a food business without an FSSAI license is illegal and can lead to fines and business closure.
- 08 How long is an FSSAI license valid?
- FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.
- 09 Who needs an FSSAI license?
- All food business operators (FBOs), including manufacturers, importers, distributors, restaurants, and online food sellers, must have FSSAI registration or a license.
- 10 How can Pragati Exim Solution help with FSSAI registration?
- We provide end-to-end FSSAI registration, compliance guidance, labeling consultation, and renewal services to ensure hassle-free licensing for your food business.
- 11 Is FSSAI mandatory for food importers?
- Yes, all food importers need an FSSAI Central License before importing products into India.
- 12 Can an FSSAI license be transferred?
- No, FSSAI licenses are non-transferable. A new license is required in case of business ownership changes.
- 13 How does FSSAI help food exporters?
- FSSAI ensures exported food products meet international safety standards and facilitates faster clearance at ports.
- 14 Is FSSAI required for packaged drinking water?
- Yes, packaged drinking water businesses need FSSAI and BIS certification.
- 15 Can a single FSSAI license be used for multiple locations?
- No, businesses with multiple locations require separate FSSAI licenses for each unit.