FSSAI License for Food Business in India: Types, Process, Documents (2026)

Quick take

Every food business in India needs FSSAI approval. Three types: Basic Registration (turnover up to ₹12 lakh), State License (₹12L–₹20 crore), and Central License (above ₹20 crore or importing). Apply on the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in). Processing takes 7–60 days depending on type. The 14-digit FSSAI number must appear on all food packaging and displays. OpenBiz connects you with experts who handle the entire FSSAI application.

Starting a cloud kitchen, restaurant, packaged food brand, bakery, tiffin service, food truck, or catering business? You legally need an FSSAI license or registration before you sell a single item. Without it, you face penalties up to ₹5 lakh and potential closure. This guide walks you through everything — which type you need, documents required, how to apply, and timeline.

Three types of FSSAI approvals

Basic Registration

Turnover up to ₹12 lakh/year. For small-scale operators: home bakers, street vendors, tiffin services, small dairy, and petty retailers.

State License

Turnover ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore. For restaurants, medium manufacturers, caterers, cloud kitchens, and repackaging units operating within one state.

Central License

Turnover above ₹20 crore, or import/export, or operating in multiple states. For large manufacturers, e-commerce food sellers, and importers.

Documents you need

📸 Passport-sized photo of the FBO (Food Business Operator)
🆔 ID proof: Aadhaar, PAN, or voter ID
🏠 Address proof of business premises (rent agreement + NOC from landlord)
📝 List of food products being manufactured or sold
🏢 Blueprint/layout of the processing unit (for State/Central license)
📊 Food safety management plan (for Central license)
🧾 Water test report (for manufacturing units)
💰 Declaration of business turnover

How to apply

All FSSAI applications are submitted through the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in). Basic Registration is typically processed within 7 days. State and Central Licenses take 30–60 days, including potential inspection. The license is valid for 1–5 years (you choose during application).

💡 Skip the confusion: The FoSCoS portal can be tricky — wrong Kind of Business (KoB) selection is the #1 cause of delays. OpenBiz connects you with experienced food compliance consultants who handle the entire application, inspection coordination, and renewal reminders.

After getting FSSAI: what’s next?

✅ Display FSSAI number on all packaging and signboards
✅ Get MSME registration for subsidies and government procurement
✅ Get GST registration if turnover exceeds threshold
✅ Apply for a Mudra loan if you need working capital
✅ Set renewal reminders — expired licenses attract penalties
✅ Use OpenBiz for ongoing compliance management

Frequently asked questions

Do home bakers need FSSAI?

Yes. Even if you’re selling from home, you need at minimum a Basic FSSAI Registration. This applies to all food businesses regardless of size.

How long is the license valid?

1 to 5 years — you choose at the time of application. Longer validity means less renewal hassle. Apply for renewal 30 days before expiry.

Can I sell on Zomato/Swiggy without FSSAI?

No. All food aggregator platforms require a valid FSSAI license for onboarding. You also need it for Amazon, BigBasket, and any ecommerce food sales.

Get your FSSAI license sorted with OpenBiz

FSSAI applications get rejected for wrong category selection, incomplete documents, and unclear food descriptions. OpenBiz connects you with food compliance experts who handle the FoSCoS application, coordinate inspections, and manage renewals — so you can focus on your food business.

Get FSSAI license with OpenBiz →

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Last updated: March 2026. Based on FSSAI FoSCoS portal guidelines and latest food safety regulations.