Who Needs an FSSAI License? Complete Eligibility Guide

Who Needs an FSSAI License? Complete Eligibility Guide

Starting or running a food business in India requires more than just good taste and quality. As per the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), every food-related business must obtain an FSSAI license or registration to operate legally. But the most common question food entrepreneurs ask is: Who exactly needs an FSSAI license? This complete eligibility guide will help you understand whether your business falls under the mandatory requirement.

What is an FSSAI License?

An FSSAI license is a legal authorization issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to ensure that food businesses follow safety, hygiene, and quality standards. It helps protect consumers and builds trust in food products. Displaying the FSSAI license number on food packages or business premises is compulsory once registered.

Who Needs an FSSAI License?

Any individual or entity involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI license or registration. Below are the main categories of businesses that require it:

1. Food Manufacturers & Processors

Businesses involved in manufacturing, processing, packaging, or repackaging food products such as snacks, beverages, dairy products, spices, oils, and ready-to-eat items must have an FSSAI license.

2. Restaurants, Cafes & Hotels

All restaurants, cafes, hotels, food courts, and eateries—small or large—must obtain an FSSAI license, regardless of seating capacity or turnover.

3. Home-Based Food Businesses

Home bakers, tiffin services, cloud kitchens, and individuals selling food online from home also require FSSAI registration. Even small-scale operations are not exempt.

4. Food Traders & Retailers

Grocery stores, kirana shops, supermarkets, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers dealing in food items must be FSSAI registered.

5. Online Food Sellers

Food sellers operating through online platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, or their own websites are required to have a valid FSSAI license.

6. Caterers & Event Food Services

Event caterers, wedding caterers, and bulk food suppliers must obtain an FSSAI license to legally provide food services.

7. Food Importers & Exporters

Businesses involved in importing or exporting food products are required to obtain a Central FSSAI License, regardless of turnover.

Types of FSSAI Licenses Based on Eligibility

FSSAI offers three types of licenses depending on business size and turnover:

• Basic Registration: For small food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs.

• State License: For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.

• Central License: For large businesses, importers, exporters, or businesses operating in multiple states.

Choosing the correct category is crucial to avoid penalties and delays.

Penalty for Not Having an FSSAI License

Running a food business without an FSSAI license is a punishable offense. Authorities may impose heavy fines, suspend operations, or even initiate legal action. Hence, compliance is not optional.

How Velco Legal India Can Help

Obtaining an FSSAI license can be confusing due to documentation, eligibility selection, and online procedures. Velco Legal India provides professional FSSAI license services across India, ensuring hassle-free registration, renewal, and compliance support. Our experts guide you at every step, from selecting the right license type to final approval.

Conclusion

If your business is involved in any form of food-related activity, you are legally required to obtain an FSSAI license or registration. It not only ensures compliance but also enhances brand credibility and customer trust. To avoid complications and delays, it is always best to consult professionals like Velco Legal India and get your FSSAI license done smoothly and quickly.