FSSAI Registration

All food business operators (FBOs) including manufacturers, traders, restaurants, caterers, importers, exporters, and e-commerce food operators must obtain FSSAI registration or license. Petty manufacturers with turnover up to ₹12 lakh need basic registration, while larger businesses require state or central licenses.

FSSAI Registration (Basic) applies to small businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakh. FSSAI State License is for medium businesses (₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore turnover) operating within one state. FSSAI Central License is for large businesses (above ₹20 crore), importers, exporters, and multi-state operators.

Operating without FSSAI registration is a punishable offense under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Penalties include fines up to ₹10 lakh and imprisonment up to 6 months depending on the offense severity. The food business may also be shut down by authorities.

FSSAI registration and licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years based on the applicant's choice. Renewal must be applied for at least 30 days before expiry. Late renewal attracts a penalty of ₹100 per day of delay.

No, FSSAI registration is not transferable. If the business ownership changes, the new owner must apply for fresh registration or license. The previous owner should surrender the existing registration to avoid compliance issues.

FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) is the online platform for FSSAI registration, license applications, and compliance management. It replaced the previous FLRS system and provides a single window for all food safety compliance requirements including registration, renewal, and modification.

Yes, even home-based food businesses, cloud kitchens, and home bakers require FSSAI registration if their annual turnover exceeds the threshold. Basic registration is mandatory for any food business, regardless of scale, to ensure food safety standards are maintained.

If renewal is filed after expiry but within the grace period, a late fee of ₹100 per day is charged. If not renewed before expiry, the license lapses and a fresh application is required. Operating with an expired license attracts penalties similar to operating without registration.

A central license can cover multiple manufacturing units or offices across India under the same company. However, each manufacturing unit or major location typically requires separate licensing unless specifically covered under the central license provisions for the head office.

FBOs must maintain hygiene and food safety standards, employ a Food Safety Supervisor (for certain categories), display FSSAI license/registration number at premises, comply with packaging and labeling regulations, maintain records of production and sales, and allow inspections by food safety officers.