Food Licence Registration Online

Start your food business the right way! Get your Food Licence Registration done quickly and easily with our expert help. We handle the paperwork, so you stay stress-free. FSSAI-approved process, fast service, and full support from start to finish. Apply now and grow your food venture legally!

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    Food Licence Registration: Introduction

    India is a land of food lovers. From street food stalls to big restaurants, the food industry is growing rapidly. If you are planning to start a food business in India—whether it’s a home kitchen, a small café, a bakery, or a large food manufacturing unit—Food Licence Registration is a mandatory step.

    The government has made it compulsory for every food business operator (FBO) to obtain a licence before starting operations. This ensures that the food is safe, hygienic, and fit for consumption. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step through the process of Food Licence Registration, its importance, eligibility, types, documents required, and how you can register online.

    What is Food Licence Registration?

    Food Licence Registration is the official approval given by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). It is the legal requirement for anyone who wants to run a food-related business. FSSAI was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Its main job is to set rules and regulations to ensure food safety across India.

    Once a food licence is granted, the FSSAI gives a 14-digit registration or licence number. This number must be printed on all food packages and displayed at the place of business.

    FSSAI Registration, FSSAI Basic Registration, FSSAI State License, FSSAI Central Licensse, Food license, Food Licence Registration

    Why is Food Licence Registration Important?

    Getting a food licence is not just a legal formality. It plays a huge role in the success and reputation of your business. Here are some key reasons why Food Licence Registration is essential:

    1. Legal Compliance

    It is mandatory under Indian law. Running a food business without it can result in heavy fines, penalties, or even closure.

    2. Builds Trust with Customers

    A valid FSSAI licence means that your food is safe and hygienic. This builds confidence among your customers and helps in brand building.

    3. Ensures Food Safety

    FSSAI checks for cleanliness, food quality, raw materials, and storage. This keeps your food safe for public consumption.

    4. Easy Expansion

    A registered food business is more likely to get financial loans, government schemes, and easy approvals for expansion.

    5. Avoids Legal Troubles

    Without proper registration, authorities can take strict action, including cancellation of your business operations.

    Who Needs a Food Licence?

    According to the FSSAI, every business that handles food in any stage must have a Food Licence Registration. This includes:

    • Hotels and restaurants
    • Street food vendors
    • Canteens (school, college, office, hospital)
    • Food manufacturers and processors
    • Dairy and milk plants
    • Meat processing units
    • Food packaging and storage units
    • Retailers and wholesalers
    • Online food delivery services (like Swiggy, Zomato, etc.)
    • Home-based food businesses
    • Importers and exporters of food items

    Even if you are a small vendor or selling food from home, you still need basic registration.

    Types of Food Licence Registration

    FSSAI provides three types of food licences based on the size and nature of the food business:

    1. Basic Registration (FSSAI Registration)

    • For small food businesses with annual turnover less than ₹12 lakhs.
    • Examples: tea stalls, petty retailers, home kitchens, small dhabas, and hawkers.

    2. State Licence

    • For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores.
    • Examples: medium restaurants, food manufacturers, distributors, and storage units.

    3. Central Licence

    • For large businesses with turnover above ₹20 crores or involved in inter-state trade, import/export.
    • Examples: large manufacturers, airport-based catering, food chains with outlets in multiple states

    Food Licence Registration Fees

    FSSAI Registration

    2,499/-
    • Documentation
    • Application FIling
    • Issuance of FSSAI Registration

    FSSAI State License

    4999/ + Govt Fee
    • Documentation
    • Application FIling
    • Issuance of FSSAI License

    FSSAI Cetral License

    ₹ 6500/ + Govt Fee
    • Documentation
    • Application FIling
    • Issuance of License

    Documents Required for Food Licence Registration

    The documents vary depending on the type of licence, but here is a general list:

    For Basic Registration:

    • PAN Card
    • Passport-size photo
    • Address proof (Aadhar, voter ID, etc.)
    • Proof of business address (utility bill, rent agreement)
    • Details of the food business

    For State and Central Licence:

    • Identity and address proof of the applicant
    • Business registration certificate
    • Partnership deed or company documents (if applicable)
    • Food safety management plan
    • List of equipment and machinery
    • Layout plan of the business premises
    • Water testing report (if water is used in food)
    • NOC from municipality or local body
    • Additional documents may be asked depending on the type of business.

    Validity and Renewal of Food Licence

    A food licence is generally valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on what you choose at the time of application. It must be renewed before 30 days of expiry.

    Failing to renew on time can lead to penalties or cancellation of the licence.

    The renewal process is similar to the initial application, and can be done online.

    Penalty for Not Having Food Licence Registration

    Running a food business without proper FSSAI registration can attract strict penalties:

    OffensePenalty
    Operating without registrationUp to ₹5 lakh and closure
    Unhygienic conditionsUp to ₹1 lakh
    Misbranding or false claimsUp to ₹3 lakh
    Substandard foodUp to ₹5 lakh
    Unsafe food causing injury or deathImprisonment + fine up to ₹10 lakh

    So it’s better to follow the rules and register your business properly.

    Get Your Food Licence Today!

    Start your food business legally. Apply for easy and quick Food Licence Registration online in just a few steps.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q1: Is Food Licence Registration mandatory for home-based food businesses?
    Yes, even if you run a food business from home, you must get basic FSSAI registration.

    Q2: How much does it cost to get a food licence?
    It depends on the type of licence. Basic registration may cost as low as ₹100 per year, while state and central licences can go up to ₹7,500 per year.

    Q3: How long does it take to get the licence?
    Usually, it takes 7 to 30 days, depending on the type of licence and inspection.

    Q4: Can I sell food without registration?
    No. Selling food without FSSAI registration is illegal and punishable.