What is FSSAI Registration and Food License?
An FSSAI licence is mandatory for anyone who manufactures, processes, stores, distributes, sells or transports food. Running a food business without it can lead to heavy penalties and closure. The 14-digit FSSAI number must be printed on packaging, menus and bills. TaxBucket identifies the correct licence type, prepares the documents and food safety plan and files the application on FoSCoS.
Who needs it?
- Restaurants, cafes, cloud kitchens and home kitchens
- Food manufacturers, packers and repackers
- Wholesalers, distributors, retailers and grocery stores
- Food importers and exporters
- E-commerce food sellers on Swiggy, Zomato and online marketplaces
Key benefits
- Legal permission to run a food business
- Builds trust with customers and food delivery platforms
- Mandatory for listing on Swiggy, Zomato and e-commerce sites
- Helps with business expansion, loans and exports
- Avoids penalties and closure
Documents required
Checklist: keep these ready
- Photo ID and photograph of the food business operator
- Business address proof and NOC/rent agreement
- List of food products
- Blueprint of the processing unit and equipment list (for manufacturers, State/Central)
- Partnership deed / MoA / Certificate of Incorporation (for entities)
- Water test report and Food Safety Management System plan (where required)
Step-by-step process
- 1
Step 1
Identify the licence type based on turnover and activity
- 2
Step 2
Prepare documents and the food category list
- 3
Step 3
Submit the application on the FoSCoS portal and pay the fee
- 4
Step 4
Inspection by the food safety officer, if required
- 5
Step 5
Grant of FSSAI registration or licence
- 6
Step 6
Ongoing compliance: annual return and renewal
Key facts: fees, timelines, due dates and penalties
- 1Basic Registration: turnover up to Rs 12 lakh (government fee Rs 100 per year)
- 2State Licence: turnover Rs 12 lakh to Rs 20 crore
- 3Central Licence: turnover above Rs 20 crore, importers, exporters and specified businesses
- 4Validity can be chosen from 1 to 5 years
Why choose TaxBucket for FSSAI Registration and Food License?
- 14+ years of experience in tax, GST, MCA and legal compliance
- ISO 9001:2015 certified company with a team of tax and compliance professionals
- Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
- End-to-end online process with a dedicated expert and regular status updates
- Office in South West Delhi; serving clients across India
Frequently asked questions
Is FSSAI registration required for a home kitchen?
Yes. Even home-based food businesses selling to the public need at least Basic Registration.
How long does it take to get an FSSAI licence?
Basic Registration is usually granted in 7 to 15 days; State and Central licences can take 30 to 60 days.
What is the penalty for running a food business without FSSAI?
It can attract imprisonment of up to 6 months and a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh under the FSS Act, 2006.
Do I need a separate FSSAI licence for each outlet?
Yes. Each premises generally needs its own registration or licence, except for transporters and some specified cases.
Get expert help with FSSAI Registration and Food License today
Call +91 7838-000-475 or send your enquiry and our expert will get back to you.