Food License Registration in India
Food License Registration is a mandatory legal requirement under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It ensures that food businesses comply with prescribed hygiene, quality, and safety standards. Any Food Business Operator involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain a valid license or registration before commencing operations.
This registration helps regulate food safety practices and protects consumer health while enabling lawful business operations across India.
Governing Law
Food businesses in India are regulated under the following legal framework:
- Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
- Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011
These laws establish uniform standards for food safety and authorize licensing authorities to monitor compliance.
Types of Food License Registration
The type of Food License required depends on the nature, scale, and annual turnover of the food business.
FSSAI Registration (Basic License)
Applicable to small food businesses with an annual turnover up to the prescribed threshold. This registration is suitable for petty manufacturers, small retailers, and home-based food operators.
State License
Required for medium-sized food businesses operating within a single state and exceeding the basic registration limits but remaining below the central license threshold.
Central License
Mandatory for large food businesses, importers, exporters, or entities operating across multiple states. This category applies to businesses with higher turnover or national-level operations.
Who Needs a Food License?
Food License Registration is required for individuals or entities involved in:
- Restaurants, cafés, hotels, and bakeries
- Food manufacturing, processing, and packaging units
- Wholesalers, distributors, and retailers of food products
- Catering services and event food suppliers
- Food delivery platforms and cloud kitchens
- Import or export of food items
Documents Required for Food License Registration
The following documents are generally required to apply for a Food License:
- Proof of business registration such as company incorporation or partnership deed
- Identity and address proof of the proprietor, partners, or directors
- List of food products or categories handled
- Address proof of the business premises
- Food safety management plan or hygiene-related standard procedures
- Details of machinery, equipment, and storage facilities
- Prescribed application form for registration or license
Procedure for Food License Registration
The registration process typically involves the following steps:
- Identification of the appropriate license category
- Preparation and verification of required documents
- Submission of the application through the designated system
- Payment of applicable government fees
- Inspection of premises, if required by authorities
- Issuance of the Food License with a unique identification number
Validity and Renewal
A Food License is issued with a validity ranging from one to five years, based on the selection made at the time of application. Renewal must be completed before the expiry date to avoid penalties and ensure uninterrupted business operations.
Benefits of Food License Registration
Obtaining a Food License provides multiple operational and legal advantages:
- Ensures compliance with food safety regulations
- Enhances consumer confidence and brand credibility
- Enables access to online marketplaces and institutional buyers
- Supports better hygiene and quality control practices
- Facilitates business expansion and partnerships
- Reduces the risk of legal penalties and operational disruptions
Why Choose i Tax GST Filing
i Tax GST Filing provides structured and end-to-end assistance for Food License Registration and compliance.
- Assessment of the correct license category
- Documentation preparation and verification
- Application filing and progress tracking
- Support during inspections and compliance reviews
- Assistance with renewals and ongoing food compliance requirements
Our Commitment
i Tax GST Filing ensures that Food License Registration is completed accurately and in line with applicable regulations. From application filing to post-registration compliance support, the focus remains on legal accuracy, operational continuity, and long-term compliance.
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Register your food business with confidence and maintain compliance with food safety regulations.
Connect with i Tax GST Filing for reliable Food License Registration and compliance support tailored to your business needs.