FSSAI License Registration
Ensuring Legal Compliance for Food Businesses in India
If your business involves the manufacturing, distribution, storage, sale, or import of food products, it is mandatory to obtain an FSSAI license or registration. This is required under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which aims to regulate food safety and protect public health in India.
At Consult Your Counsel, we assist food business operators of all sizes in registering with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and obtaining the appropriate license based on their scale of operation.
Types of FSSAI Authorization
FSSAI provides two types of permissions depending on your business size and nature:
- FSSAI Registration: For small-scale food businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs annually
- FSSAI License: For medium and large food businesses
- State License: For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores
- Central License: For businesses with turnover above ₹20 crores or those involved in import/export
Who Needs FSSAI Registration or License
- Manufacturers, processors, and packagers of food products
- Food transporters and warehouses
- Hotels, restaurants, cafes, and food delivery services
- Online food sellers and cloud kitchens
- Food importers and exporters
- Retailers and wholesalers selling food items
Documents Required
For All Applicants:
- Government-issued photo ID and address proof of the proprietor, partners, or directors
- Proof of business address (rent agreement, electricity bill, etc.)
- Constitution documents (partnership deed, MOA/AOA, etc.)
- List of directors, partners, or executive members with contact details
- Form IX (Nomination of authorized signatory)
Additional Documents for Manufacturers:
- Layout plan of premises with dimensions
- List of equipment and machinery
- Water test report from a certified lab
- Photographs of production unit
- Proof of capacity and operational setup
Additional Documents for Importers/Exporters:
- Import Export Code (IEC)
- Declaration for export-only products (if applicable)
Validity and Renewal
- The license or registration is valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, as chosen at the time of application
- Renewal must be initiated at least 30 days before expiry to avoid late fees or penalties
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Operating without a valid FSSAI license can lead to imprisonment of up to 6 months
- Fines can go up to ₹5 lakhs
- Products can be seized or business operations suspended in serious cases
Benefits of FSSAI License
- Legal authorization to operate your food business
- Builds consumer trust and confidence in your brand
- Enhances credibility for business expansion and investments
- Facilitates access to government tenders and large contracts
- Helps maintain food safety and quality standards
- Enables smooth inspections and avoids legal issues
Our Process at Consult Your Counsel
- Identify the correct category of registration or license
- Assist in document preparation and verification
- File the application online with the relevant authority
- Coordinate with officials in case of any clarification or site inspection
- Provide regular updates and assistance till the license is issued
- Support with renewal, modifications, or upgrades of the license