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FSSAI: Food License and Registration

What is FSSAI: Food License and Registration about?

The FSSAI License is a mandatory compliance for all food-related businesses in India, governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.


This license ensures that food products meet health, hygiene, and safety standards, safeguarding public health and promoting consumer trust.

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Every entity involved in the manufacturing, storage, transportation, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI license or registration, depending on their scale of operation.

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There are three types of FSSAI licensing based on business size and turnover:

  • FSSAI Basic Registration: For small businesses with turnover below ₹12 lakh per annum.

  • FSSAI State License: For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore per annum (within one state).

  • FSSAI Central License: For large businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore or businesses involved in import/export, or operating in multiple states.

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Having an FSSAI license not only fulfills a legal requirement but also:

  • Enhances brand credibility,

  • Enables participation in bulk supply contracts (such as supplying to retailers, supermarkets, or government),

  • Ensures consumer confidence in the safety and quality of food products.

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EMPL assists food businesses across India in smoothly obtaining FSSAI registration and licensing — minimizing paperwork hassles, coordinating with food safety departments, and helping companies stay compliant without delays.

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Which products are covered?

FSSAI certification covers a wide range of food-related products and businesses, including:

Packaged food (chips, biscuits, ready-to-eat meals)

Dairy products (milk, butter, cheese, yogurt)

Beverages (juices, aerated drinks, packaged water)

Meat and seafood products

Bakery and confectionery items

 

Nutraceuticals and health supplements

Food catering services (restaurants, cloud kitchens)

  • The following categories must apply for FSSAI registration or license:

    • Food manufacturers and processors

    • Food importers and exporters

    • Food packaging units

    • Food transporters and warehouse operators

    • Wholesalers and retailers (supermarkets, kirana stores)

    • Restaurants, cafés, hotels, caterers

    • Online food delivery platforms and cloud kitchens

    • Street vendors and home-based food businesses (with turnover considerations)

    Whether you're a small homemade pickles brand or a large-scale packaged food manufacturer, EMPL can guide you through selecting the right license category and completing the application process efficiently.

  • The FSSAI licensing timeline varies depending on the type of license:

    • Basic Registration: 7–10 working days

    • State License: 30–45 working days

    • Central License: 45–60 working days

    Factors such as the completeness of documentation and inspections (for certain facilities) can affect the duration.
    EMPL helps accelerate the process by ensuring error-free applications and early responses to authority queries, saving crucial time for businesses eager to start operations.

  • Before applying for an FSSAI license or registration, applicants should ensure:

    • Business entity proof: Incorporation certificate, partnership deed, or shop establishment license.

    • Identity and address proof of promoters/directors.

    • Premises address proof: Rent agreement, electricity bill, or property papers.

    • Food safety management system plan (FSMS Plan).

    • List of food products to be handled or manufactured.

    • Layout plan of processing units (for manufacturers).

    • NOC from municipality or local authority (in some cases).

    • Import Export Code (IEC) for food importers/exporters.

    By working with experts like EMPL, businesses can avoid confusion between registration types and prevent costly rejection or delay due to missing documents.

  • Yes. Even small, home-based food businesses (like home bakers, tiffin services) must obtain at least FSSAI Basic Registration if their turnover is under ₹12 lakh annually.

  • Operating without a valid FSSAI registration/license can result in heavy penalties, including fines up to ₹5 lakh and even closure of business.

  • Yes. The FSSAI License/Registration must be renewed every 1 to 5 years depending on the license validity chosen initially.

  • EMPL provides end-to-end FSSAI consultancy — from document preparation to application filing to handling department follow-ups — ensuring quick and hassle-free approval for your food business.

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