What is FSSAI and why do I need a license?

FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is the statutory food regulatory body of India. Any business involved in manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food must obtain FSSAI license/registration. Operating without one risks penalties up to ₹5 lakh and imprisonment.

What are the FSSAI license types in India?

There are 3 types: (1) Basic Registration — turnover up to ₹1.5 Crore/year; (2) State License — turnover ₹1.5 Crore to ₹50 Crore/year; (3) Central License — turnover above ₹50 Crore or multi-state/importer/exporter operations.

How long does FSSAI registration take?

FSSAI Basic Registration takes 7–10 working days. State License takes 30–45 days. Central License takes 45–60 days. With Velco Legal India, we prepare and submit your application within 24 hours.

What is the cost of FSSAI license in India?

Government fees: Basic Registration ₹100/year, State License ₹2,000–₹5,000/year, Central License ₹7,500/year. Velco Legal India professional service fees start at ₹999 for Basic Registration.

What documents are required for FSSAI registration?

For Basic Registration: Photo ID proof, address proof of business, passport size photo. For State/Central License: additionally business registration certificate, rental agreement/ownership proof, food safety management plan, list of food categories.

Can I get FSSAI license online?

Yes. FSSAI licenses are applied 100% online through the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in). Velco Legal India provides complete online assistance — no physical office visit needed anywhere in India.

What is the penalty for operating without FSSAI license?

Operating a food business without FSSAI license attracts imprisonment up to 6 months and/or fine up to ₹5 lakh under Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

How to renew FSSAI license?

FSSAI license must be renewed 30 days before expiry through FoSCoS portal. Late renewal attracts a penalty of ₹100/day. Velco Legal India handles renewal for ₹999 onwards with 24-hour application submission.

FSSAI Inspection Preparation Checklist 2026

FSSAI Food Safety Officers (FSOs) can conduct both scheduled and surprise inspections of any food business premises. Being prepared ensures you pass with no notices or penalties. Here is a comprehensive inspection preparation checklist.

Documents to Keep Ready

Original FSSAI license/registration certificate (prominently displayed)
FoSTaC training certificates of all Food Safety Supervisors
Recent pest control reports (last 3 months)
Water testing report (within 1 year)
Daily cleaning records / sanitation log
Temperature monitoring records for refrigerators
Supplier invoices and product batch records
Allergen management procedures document

Premises and Hygiene Checklist

FSSAI license displayed at prominent location (entrance/reception)
All food handlers wearing proper headcovers, aprons, and gloves
Clean, pest-free storage and production areas
Separate storage for raw and cooked food
Working refrigeration and temperature control equipment
Proper waste disposal bins with lids
Handwashing station with soap and paper towels near food handling areas
No cracked walls, broken tiles, or pest entry points

Product Compliance

All products within shelf life
Proper labeling on all packaged products (FSSAI number visible)
No unapproved food additives or colors in use
FSSAI-approved raw materials only

During the Inspection

Be cooperative and courteous with the FSO
Provide all requested documents promptly
Do not obstruct the inspection (penalty up to ₹1 lakh)
If samples are taken, note the time and batch details
Request a copy of the inspection report

After the Inspection

If an improvement notice is issued, comply within the stipulated time
Address all deficiencies noted before the follow-up inspection
Seek professional help immediately if a show-cause notice is issued

Conclusion

An FSSAI inspection is not something to fear if you maintain genuine food safety compliance. The goal is safe food for consumers — and businesses that genuinely follow good practices have nothing to worry about. Velco Legal India helps food businesses build inspection-ready compliance systems.

How to Prepare for an FSSAI Inspection: Checklist for Food Businesses