How to Apply for Food License Registration Online?

Food industry in India is growing rapidly with new restaurants, bakeries, and food ventures that launch every day. As the industry expands, every food business must obtain a food license registration to maintain safety and quality standards. You can apply for an FSSAI license easily through the official FoSCoS portal without any hassle. By following the registration process, you can ensure that your products meet top standards while building customer trust. In this piece of writing, you will get an overall guidance of FSSAI registration process, and more.

What is Food License Registration?

Food License Registration is a mandatory requirement for any business dealing with food in India. This license is issued by the Food safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This FSSAI license helps to protect public health and maintain hygiene in the food supply chain. Whether you are involved in manufacturing, processing, storing, distributing, or selling food, you must get this registration. Once approved, you will receive a unique 14-digit FSSAI license number. This number must be displayed on food packages and business premises to build trust with customers and show compliance.

Types of Food License Registration in India

There are three main types of food license registration in India. Each license or registration depends on the size, nature, and annual turnover of a food business:

1. FSSAI Basic Registration

Small food businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs are required to obtain an FSSAI Basic Registration. This applies to petty food vendors, home-based food enterprises, hawkers, and small cafés. Startups and local food entrepreneurs can easily register by following the prescribed food safety guidelines. The registration is valid for 1 to 5 years and can be renewed upon expiry. Having this license allows small businesses to operate smoothly and gain customer confidence.

2. FSSAI State License

Food businesses with an annual turnover ranging from Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores must obtain an FSSAI State License. This applies to restaurants, caterers, hotels, wholesalers, and food manufacturers operating within a single state. The license ensures compliance with state-level food safety regulations and is valid for 1 to 5 years. If you hold this license, it helps businesses maintain credibility and operate confidently while following the required regulations and standards.

3. FSSAI Central License

Food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores, or those involved in import and export, must obtain an FSSAI Central License. This license is intended for multi-state operations, large-scale manufacturers, importers, exporters, and online food platforms. It ensures compliance with national food safety standards and is mandatory for businesses operating across multiple states or internationally.

Documents Required for Food License Registration

Here are the documents required for food license registration:

1. Common Documents for All FSSAI licenses or Registrations

• Applicant’s Identity and Address Proof, such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License.
• Passport-sized photo of the applicant.
• Proof of Business Address, including Rental Agreement, Lease Agreement, Utility Bill, or Property Ownership Documents.
• Business Constitution/Type Proof like Certificate of Incorporation (for companies), Partnership Deed, or Proprietorship Registration Certificate.
• Detailed list of all products you plan to manufacture, sell, or distribute.
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan
• A self-declaration form as per FSSAI requirements.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local authority or health department, if applicable.
• Water Testing Report for businesses dealing with food or beverages, which confirms the potability of the water used.

2. Basic Registration

• Form A: Duly filled and signed application form.
• A duly filled and signed application form
• A self-declaration stating the nature of the business.
• Food Handler Certificate (If required)

3. State & Central License Documents

• Form B: Duly filled and signed application form
• Layout Plan: Blueprint of the processing unit showing dimensions and area allocation
• Directors/Partners List with contact details and photo IDs
• Equipment and Machinery Details, including numbers and installed capacity
• Water Analysis Report
• Authority Letter from the manufacturer nominating a responsible person
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Local Authority
• Health No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the health department (if applicable)
• List of Food Categories
• Recall Plan if applicable (for Central License)
• IEC & Ministry Certificates: Import Export Code (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce/ Tourism certificates (if applicable)
• Form IX (Nomination of Person)
• Supporting Documents, including Proof of turnover and transportation

How to Apply for Food License Registration Online?

Below is the step-by-step food license registration process to apply online:

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

Firstly, you need to visit the official FoSCoS portal to apply for the FSSAI registration process in India without any hassle. This is the first step to begin the Registration process.

Step 2: Create a User Account

As an applicant, you must create a new user account by clicking on the “Sign Up” option. Then, you need to enter your full name, mobile number, and email address. You will receive an OTP (one-time password) from the system to check your details. The account will become active and ready for use after verification.

Step 3: Select the Correct License Type

In the next step, you must log in to your account and choose the “Apply for New License/Registration” option to select the license type. You must select the correct license type according to your needs. The option can include Basic registration, State license, or a central license. If you choose the wrong food license type, it can lead to unnecessary delays in applying for an FSSAI license.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

You must fill out and submit the application form with the required information. You can use Form A for Basic Registration and Form B for a State or Central License. The required information can include the business name, address, contact details, type of food business, number of employees, production capacity, and other required details.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Next, you must upload all necessary scanned documents, including identity proof, address proof, business registration certificate, and any other documents required as mentioned above. You must keep each file under 2 MB.

Step 6: Pay the License Fees

Next, you must pay the applicable food license registration fees online. Once your payment is completed, you will be provided with an Application Reference Number (ARN). You can easily check and track the status of your application.  

Step 7: Review and Inspection

The authorities will review your submitted application and documents carefully. If necessary, officials may visit your premises to inspect hygiene and safety standards for State or Central Licenses. You need to resolve your issues on time for smooth operations.

Step 8: License Approval and Download

Once approved, you must log in to the FoSCoS portal and download the food license registration. The FSSAI registration certificate contains a unique 14-digit registration number. You can also save it in a PDF format. This certificate confirms that your business meets all food safety rules and can operate smoothly.

Fees for Food License Registration

Here are the fees for food license registration:

Benefits of Having Food License Registration

Listed below are the key benefits of having a food license registration:

• Compliance and Protection

FSSAI registration or license is an essential requirement for all food businesses in India according to Section 31(1) and (2) of the FSS Act, 2006. By obtaining this license, you can keep food safe and run your business correctly. It also helps to protect the business from fines, penalties, or closure that can arise if rules are not followed.   

• Consumer Trust and Brand Credibility

If you display your FSSAI license or registration, it reassures customers that your food businesses meet high safety and hygiene standards. Customers can feel confident while purchasing food from a business that meets these requirements. This trust helps to improve your brand’s reputation with customers, suppliers, and partners.

• Access to Retailers and E-Commerce Platforms

You need a valid food license registration to sell food on online platforms or in large stores. Businesses cannot sell on these platforms without having this license. This Registration helps your business reach more customers and sell on different platforms.

• Ease in Business Expansion and Growth

Obtaining an FSSAI license helps your food business grow safely and confidently. You can easily open new outlets, enter new cities, or start exporting food products with this license. It also shows investors, partners, and customers that your business follows proper safety standards. Thus, if you have a proper FSSAI license, you can build trust with customers and get more opportunities for success.

• Mandatory Display and Traceability

Businesses must display the 14-digit FSSAI license number on bills, menus, packages, and other documents. This ensures that products can be traced through the supply chain and accountability is maintained.

• Improved Food Safety and Hygiene Standards

FSSAI registration shows that a business follows proper food safety and hygiene practices. This reduces the risk of contamination or foodborne illnesses, keeping customers safe.

• Reduced Risk of Penalties or Litigation

Without a valid license, a food business may face fines up to Rs. 5 lakh or imprisonment, depending on the violation. FSSAI registration reduces the risk of such penalties and keeps the business protected.

Conclusion

Therefore, completing your food license registration is an essential step toward running a safe and trustworthy food business in India. This license ensures that your products meet the safety and quality standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. A valid FSSAI registration allows you to operate your business confidently, build customer trust, and grow your business without any hassle. If you want any assistance for an FSSAI registration, get in touch with Online Legal India.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Online Legal India is a digital platform. If you require legal assistance, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified lawyer or law firm.

FAQ

Q1. Can a home-based food business apply for FSSAI registration?

Yes, a small or home based food business can apply for FSSAI registration to sell food products. Home-based entrepreneurs usually qualify for basic FSSAI registration.

Q2. Is it possible to renew FSSAI registration online?

Yes, it is possible to renew FSSAI registration online. FSSAI registration is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on your choice, and you can renew it before expiry on the FoSCoS portal.

Q3. What are the benefits of completing FSSAI registration online?

Online food license registration saves time, reduces paperwork, and ensures compliance with food safety standards. It also provides a digital certificate, which can be displayed at your business premises or on product packaging. It helps to enhance credibility with customers and suppliers.

Q4. How do I choose between a basic, state, and central FSSAI license?

• Basic Registration: Small businesses with a turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakh/year.
• State License: Medium-sized businesses with turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crores.
• Central License: Large businesses or manufacturers with a turnover of over Rs. 20 crore or operating in multiple states.

Selecting the correct type ensures smooth approval and compliance.

Q5. Can I apply for FSSAI registration without visiting any office?

Yes, you can apply for FSSAI registration without visiting any office because the entire process is online. You can fill out forms, upload all required documents, and receive your digital certificate without visiting any office. It is fast, convenient, and paperless.