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14-Digit ID
Unique FBO number on every license -
Mandatory
Required for every food business in India -
3 Categories
Basic, State & Central — based on turnover
What is FSSAI Registration?
If you sell food in India — whether it’s a home bakery, a street food cart, a restaurant, or a large manufacturing unit — you legally need an FSSAI number. FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, the government body that makes sure food sold across the country is safe to eat.
Every food business operator (FBO) is required to display a 14-digit FSSAI License number on their packaging or premises. This number is your proof that the government has checked and approved how you handle, prepare, or sell food. Skipping this isn’t just risky for your customers — it’s a punishable offence under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
BDS Legal helps food businesses across India and figure out exactly which FSSAI category they fall under and get registered without the usual back-and-forth confusion.
Which FSSAI Category Do You Need?
This is usually the first question every food business owner asks, and the answer comes down to one thing: your annual turnover. FSSAI has three categories, and picking the right one from the start saves you time, money, and paperwork later.
Basic FSSAI Registration Turnover up to ₹1.5 Crore
Applicable to Food Business Operators (FBOs) with an annual turnover of up to ₹1.5 Crore. The Government fee is ₹100 per year, and the application is generally processed within 7–10 working days, subject to verification and approval by the Food Safety Department. It is suitable for small retailers, hawkers, cottage industries, home-based food businesses, and petty food manufacturers. The registration certificate is issued only after approval by the competent FSSAI authority.
State FSSAI License Turnover ₹1.5 Cr – ₹50 Cr
Applicable to Food Business Operators (FBOs) with an annual turnover of above ₹1.5 Crore and up to ₹50 Crore. The Government fee ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year, depending on the nature of the business. The application is generally processed within 30 days, subject to document verification, inspection (if required), and approval by the Food Safety Department. It is suitable for mid-sized manufacturers, restaurants, caterers, distributors, and food businesses operating within a single state. The License is granted only after approval by the competent FSSAI authority.
Central FSSAI License Turnover above ₹50 Cr
Applicable to Food Business Operators (FBOs) with an annual turnover of above ₹50 Crore. The Government fee is ₹7,500 per year, and the application is generally processed within 45–60 days, subject to document verification, inspection (if required), and approval by the Food Safety Department. It is suitable for large manufacturers, importers, exporters, e-commerce food businesses, and companies operating across multiple states. The License is issued only after approval by the competent FSSAI authority.
If your business is small and local, you’ll likely fall under Basic Registration. If you’re running a restaurant chain or manufacturing at scale within one state, a State License fits. And if you’re importing, exporting, or operating in more than one state, you’ll need a Central License. Not sure where you land? A quick call with our team clears this up in minutes.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
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Legal Compliance Helps your food business operate legally.
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Builds Customer Trust An FSSAI number increases customer confidence in your food business.
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Supports Business Growth Useful when onboarding with platforms, retailers, hotels, and other business partners.
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Inspection Readiness Helps you stay prepared for FSSAI inspections and compliance checks.
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Supports Food Exports Helps meet regulatory requirements when expanding into international food markets.
Process of FSSAI Registration
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Step 1 : Identify Your Category Confirm whether a Basic, State, or Central License applies based on your turnover and operations.
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Step 2 : Prepare Your Documents Gather identity proof, address proof of your business premises, and a Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan.
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Step 3 : Submit Your Application File through the FSSAI portal (or let a professional handle it for you) along with your product list and required declarations.
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Step 4 : Application Review FSSAI reviews your documents and, depending on the category, may inspect your premises.
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Step 5 : License Issued Once approved, you receive your 14-digit FSSAI number, which must be displayed on your packaging and business premises.
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Step 6 : Stay Compliant Renew on time and keep your FSMS practices updated to avoid penalties.
Documents You'll Need
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Identity and address proof of the applicant
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Proof of Business Premises Rent agreement, utility bill, or ownership document.
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Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan
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List of food products you manufacture, sell, or deal in
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Business incorporation or constitution documents (for State and Central License applicants)
Additional documents depending on the specific nature of your food business
Plans & Pricing
Once you know which category fits your business, here’s what it costs to get registered.
Basic Registration
- Processing Time: 7–10 Working Days
- Small Retailers & Hawkers
- Cottage Industries
- Petty Food Manufacturers
State License
- Processing Time: ~30 Days
- Mid-Sized Manufacturers & Restaurants
- Caterers
- Single-State Operations
Central License
- Processing Time: 45–60 Days
- Large Manufacturers
- Importers & Exporters
- Multi-State Operations
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Personalized Quote for FSSAI Registration
Fill in your details below and our FSSAI experts will get in touch with you to guide you through the right registration or license for your business.
