How to Get Food License in India?

In India, every food business begins with the proper approvals. So, they want to know how to get food license. They can fulfill the need of FSSAI registration through the official FoSCoS portal. In this piece of writing, you will get guidance on the registration process and more.

What is a Food License?

A Food License is official permission from FSSAI to run a food business in India. It is also called FSSAI registration. Anyone who makes, stores, distributes, or sells food must have it. It proves that you follow hygiene and safety rules and helps build customer trust.

Types of Food Licenses in India

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

Basic FSSAI Registration

Basic registration refers to the simplest form of a license. If your annual turnover is up to Rs. 12 lakh, you must apply for a basic registration. This license can be used by home-based food sellers. Petty manufacturers, small food shops, hawkers, and street food vendors. FSSAI license ensures that even small food businesses sell safe and good food.

State FSSAI License

A State FSSAI Licence is needed for food businesses working in one state. You need it if your yearly sales are Rs. 12 lakh to Rs. 20 crore. It is for medium businesses like restaurants and caterers. Apply using Form B. It ensures food is clean and safe for customers.

Central FSSAI License

A Central FSSAI Licence is for big food businesses. You need this licence if your yearly sales are more than Rs. 20 crore. You also need it if you import or export food. It is needed when you sell food in many states. It is also for food supply to trains, airports, and government places. This licence helps keep food safe and good for everyone.

Documents Required for Food License Registration in India

Here are the documents required for food license registration in India:

Common Documents for All Types of FSSAI Licenses

1. Identity and Address Proof: Like Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, etc.
2. Business address proof like a rent agreement, lease, utility bill, or ownership papers.
3. Passport-sized photo of the applicant.
4. Business Constitution/Type Proof: It can include the Certificate of Incorporation for companies. Partnership Deed, Proprietorship Registration Certificate.
5. Product catalogue: A detailed list of all products for manufacture, sale, or distribution.
6. Food Safety Management System Plan
7. A self-declaration form as per FSSAI requirements.
8. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local authority or health department, if applicable.
9. Water Testing Report for businesses involved in food or beverages.

Basic Registration

1. Form A: A completely filled and signed application form.
2. A declaration that describes the type of business.
3. Food Handler Certificate (if applicable).

State & Central License Documents

1. Form B: Application form completely filled and signed.
2. List of Directors/Partners: contact information and photocopies of photo ID
3. Equipment and Machinery Details: Give quantity and installed capacity.
4. Water Analysis Report
5. Layout Plan: A simple map or blueprint showing the size and area of the food unit.
6. Authority Letter: From the manufacturer nominating a responsible person.
7. No Objection Certificate (NOC): From the local authority
8. Health NOC: From the health department, if applicable.
9. Food Categories List
10. Recall Plan: If applicable, for central license holders.
11. Import Export Code (DGFT) and other required certificates, if needed.
12. Form IX: Nomination of a responsible person.
13. Supporting documents include: Evidence of turnover and transportation information.

How to Get Food License in India?

Here is the step-by-step process on how to get food license registration in India:

Step 1: Visit the FoSCoS Portal

First, you must visit the official FoSCoS portal to apply for an FSSAI registration. So, this step allows you to begin the process without any hassle.

Step 2: Create a User Account

You must click on the "Sign Up" option to create a new user account as an applicant. Then, you must enter your full name, email address, and mobile number. The system will provide you with an OTP (one-time password) for checking your details. Then, the account will get active and ready to use after verification.

Step 3: Select the Correct License Type

You must log in to your account and select the “Apply for New License/Registration”. Option to further choose the correct license type according to your needs. The option can include Basic registration, State license, or a central license. You should choose the correct license type for a smooth registration process. on how to get food license.

Step 4: Fill out the Application Form

Then, the next step is to fill out and submit the application form with the required information. You can use Form A for Basic registration. Form B is applicable for a State or Central License. In this form you need to fill out the details includes the name of the business, address, phone number, and e-mail. Type of food business operation, number of employees, production capacity, includes necessary documents.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

You should upload all the required documents in scanned copies. Keep each document's file size below 2 MB. It includes proof of identity, business registration, a list of food products. Other required documents mentioned above. Though, an accurate submission of documents helps to reduce the chance of delays.

Step 6: Pay the License Fees

In the next step, you must pay the required FSSAI registration fee by making an online payment. Then, the portal confirms the payment. It gives you an Application Reference Number (ARN). So, you can check the status of your application with this number.

Step 7: Review and Inspection

The FSSAI authorities will then verify your submitted application. Other documents to guarantee that they meet all food safety requirements. Sometimes, they may conduct a physical inspection at the premises for some businesses. In case any corrections or more documents are required, you will be informed. This step allows you to complete the compliance process.

Step 8: License Approval and Download

After your FSSAI application is approved, log in to the FoSCoS portal. You can download your food licence certificate in PDF form. The certificate has a 14-digit number. It shows that your business follows food safety rules and can operate legally.

FSSAI License Fees

Here are the table outlining the FSSAI license fees:

Benefits of Getting a Food License in India

Here are the key benefits of a food license registration in India:

Compliance and Avoid Penalties

Each food business should follow the food safety standards in India. A valid FSSAI license keeps your business safe. This helps to prevent fines and troubles with authorities. Which allows you to work.

Builds Trust and Confidence among Customers

Consumers want to buy products only from food businesses with an FSSAI registration. It guarantees that the business follows the safety and quality of its food. Thus, the assurance of food safety builds trust among consumers.

Access to Larger Business Opportunities

Institutions, government bodies, schools, and hospitals must suppliers to have an FSSAI license. Your business can take part in tenders and supply to bigger clients. It also helps to expand into new markets with a valid license. It opens doors to opportunities that are otherwise difficult to access.

Improves Quality Control and Reduces Risk

The FSSAI licenses set the standard for hygiene, storage, and production. Business complies with these standards to keep food safe. It helps in maintaining consistent quality and builds better credibility.

Conclusion

Thus, it is important to understand how to get food license in India for any food business. Food businesses needs to complete their FSSAI registration to operate their business. They need to follow FSSAI guidelines to be safe and build customer trust. If you want any help about it, contact Online Legal India.

FAQ

Q1. What is a food license, and why is it important?

A food license is a compulsory FSSAI registration given to all food businesses.  It guarantees the products that you sell are produced in a safe and high-quality manner

Q2. How to get food license registration in India?

To get FSSAI registration in India, go to the FSSAI FoSCoS portal. Choose the right licence type. Fill out the form and upload your documents. Then, pay the fee. After approval, you can download your certificate. You can also check your application status on the portal.

Q3. Who needs to apply online for a Food License?

In India, any food business needs to apply for a food license online. Food businesse owners engaged in manufacturing, processors, packagers, retailers should apply for FSSAI. Other than that food distributors also need FSSAI license.

Q4. Can I renew my FSSAI license online?

Yes, you can renew your FSSAI license before the date of expiry. By applying online through the FoSCoS portal.

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.