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.

How to Start a Bakery Business in India 2026

Bakeries remain one of India's most resilient and profitable food businesses — from small neighborhood bread shops to premium artisan bakeries and franchise chains. If you are passionate about baking and entrepreneurship, here's your complete guide.

Types of Bakery Businesses

Retail Bakery: Walk-in shop selling breads, cakes, pastries directly to consumers
Wholesale Bakery: Supplying bakery products to restaurants, hotels, supermarkets
Custom Cake Business: High-margin, made-to-order specialty cakes
Home Bakery: Operating from home kitchen (FSSAI Basic Registration)
Bakery Café: Combining bakery with café seating

FSSAI License for Bakeries

Home bakery / small bakery: Basic Registration (turnover up to ₹1.5 Cr)
Mid-size retail bakery: State License (₹1.5 Cr to ₹50 Cr)
Large bakery / wholesale: State or Central License
KOB: Manufacturer — Confectionery and Bakery

Essential Equipment

Commercial oven (deck oven for breads, convection oven for cakes): ₹50,000–₹3 lakh
Planetary mixer: ₹30,000–₹1.5 lakh
Refrigeration (walk-in or display): ₹40,000–₹2 lakh
Proofing cabinet: ₹25,000–₹60,000
Display counter and packaging: ₹20,000–₹50,000

High-Margin Bakery Products to Focus On

Custom cakes (birthday, wedding) — 60–80% margin
Artisan sourdough bread — premium pricing, loyal customers
Macarons and French pastries — high perceived value
Corporate gifting hampers (Diwali, Christmas) — bulk orders

Conclusion

A bakery business rewards creativity, consistency, and quality. Start with your FSSAI license, invest in good equipment, and build a loyal customer base through Instagram and word-of-mouth. Velco Legal India processes your FSSAI registration in 2–3 days.

How to Start a Bakery Business in India: Step-by-Step Guide