Food License – A Complete Guide for Food Business Operators

If you are planning to start a food business in India, whether it’s a restaurant, cloud kitchen, catering service, or packaged food company, obtaining a Food License is the first and most essential step. A valid FSSAI Food License ensures that your business complies with food safety laws and gains customer trust.

In this article, we will explain everything about Food License registration, its types, process, documents required, and why it’s important for every food business in India.

What is a Food License?

A Food License is an authorization issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to all food-related businesses in India. The main goal of the license is to ensure that food products are safe for consumption and that businesses follow hygiene and safety standards.

Any business involved in the manufacture, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI license before starting operations.

Why is a Food License Important?

Obtaining a food license is not just a legal formality—it helps build your business reputation and ensures compliance with food laws.

Here are the key benefits of getting a Food License:

• ✅ Legal Authorization: Operating a food business without an FSSAI license is illegal and can lead to penalties or closure.

• ✅ Consumer Trust: The FSSAI logo on food packaging assures customers that the product is safe and of good quality.

• ✅ Business Expansion: A valid food license helps you expand your business nationally and even export food products.

• ✅ Brand Value: Registered businesses gain better credibility in the market.

• ✅ Improved Hygiene Standards: It ensures that your business follows all food safety norms.

Who Needs a Food License in India?

Any business involved in food activities must obtain an FSSAI license. This includes:

• Food manufacturers and processors

• Restaurants, cafes, and bakeries

• Packaged food and beverage companies

• Caterers and canteens

• Cloud kitchens and food delivery startups

• Retailers, wholesalers, and food traders

• Importers and exporters of food products

Types of Food License

FSSAI issues three types of food licenses depending on the size and scale of business operations.

1. Basic FSSAI Registration

• For small businesses or startups with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.

• Suitable for small retailers, petty food manufacturers, or small food stalls.

2. State Food License

• Required for medium-sized food businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores.

• Issued by the State Government.

• Applicable for mid-level restaurants, manufacturing units, distributors, and transporters.

3. Central Food License

• For large businesses with an annual turnover of above ₹20 crores.

• Issued by the Central Government.

• Mandatory for importers, exporters, large manufacturers, and operators in multiple states.

Documents Required for Food License

To apply for a food license, you need to submit the following documents:

• Passport-size photograph of the applicant

• Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID)

• Proof of business premises (rental agreement, utility bill, or ownership proof)

• Food safety management plan

• List of food products to be handled

• NOC from local authorities (if applicable)

• Incorporation certificate or partnership deed (for companies)

• Central license applicants may also need laboratory test reports and import/export documents

Step-by-Step Process for Food License Registration

Step 1: Determine the Type of License

Identify whether you need a Basic, State, or Central License based on your annual turnover and business scale.

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

Visit the official FSSAI website (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/) and fill out Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State and Central License).

Step 3: Upload Documents

Attach all the required documents along with your application. Ensure all details are correct and up to date.

Step 4: Inspection (if required)

In some cases, a food safety officer may inspect your business premises before granting the license.

Step 5: Approval and License Issuance

Once approved, the FSSAI issues your Food License number, which must be displayed on your food packaging and premises.

Validity and Renewal of Food License

• The FSSAI Food License is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the fee paid during registration.

• It’s important to renew your license before expiry to avoid penalties or suspension.

• The renewal process can be done easily online through the FSSAI portal.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating a food business without a valid license can attract severe penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, such as:

• Heavy fines (up to ₹5 lakhs)

• Business closure orders

• Product recall or suspension of license

Hence, it’s always better to comply with FSSAI norms to run your food business smoothly.

Conclusion

Getting a Food License is a crucial step for anyone involved in the food business in India. It not only helps in building a reputable brand but also ensures that your customers receive safe and hygienic food products.

Whether you are a small food stall owner or a large manufacturer, having an FSSAI license brings credibility, trust, and growth opportunities to your business.