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 License for Food Manufacturers 2026

Food manufacturing businesses — from small-scale snack makers to large FMCG companies — have specific FSSAI licensing requirements. The type of license depends on your annual turnover and the scale of your manufacturing operations. Getting the right license is essential for legal operation, retail distribution, and B2B sales.

FSSAI License by Manufacturer Size

Micro manufacturers (turnover up to ₹1.5 Cr): Basic Registration — Petty Food Business category
Small and medium manufacturers (₹1.5 Cr to ₹50 Cr): State License — Manufacturer category
Large manufacturers (above ₹50 Cr): Central License — Manufacturer category

Important: Certain types of manufacturers (dairy units, meat processors, fish processors) have mandatory State or Central License requirements regardless of turnover. Check your specific category before applying for Basic Registration.

Kind of Business (KOB) Categories for Manufacturers

FSSAI classifies manufacturers under these main KOB categories:

Manufacturer — Food Articles (general packaged food)
Manufacturer — Dairy Products
Manufacturer — Meat and Poultry Products
Manufacturer — Fish and Fishery Products
Manufacturer — Beverages (non-alcoholic)
Manufacturer — Confectionery and Bakery
Manufacturer — Spices and Condiments
Manufacturer — Packaged Drinking Water / Mineral Water
Manufacturer — Edible Oils and Fats
Manufacturer — Nutraceuticals and Health Supplements
Re-packer / Re-labeller

Special Requirements for Manufacturers

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)

All licensed food manufacturers must follow GMP guidelines as prescribed by FSSAI. Key GMP requirements include:

Clean, pest-free manufacturing premises
Separate areas for raw material storage, processing, packaging, and finished goods
Food-grade equipment and surfaces
Water testing and purification systems
Staff hygiene facilities and training

FSSAI Product Approval (for certain products)

Manufacturers of nutraceuticals, proprietary foods, health supplements, and non-standardized food products must obtain FSSAI Product Approval before commercial production.

Annual Return Obligation

All State and Central licensed manufacturers must file Form D1 annual return by May 31 every year, declaring production quantities, sales value, and compliance status.

FoSTaC Training for Manufacturing

Manufacturing businesses must have FoSTaC-certified Food Safety Supervisors. The relevant module is "Basic Food Safety for Manufacturing" or "Advanced Food Safety for Manufacturing."

Conclusion

Getting the right FSSAI license for your food manufacturing business is the foundation of legal and commercial success. State-licensed manufacturers can supply to retail chains, e-commerce platforms, and institutions. Central-licensed manufacturers can export and operate nationally. Contact Velco Legal India for expert guidance.

FSSAI License for Food Manufacturers: Which License Do You Need?