Food Franchise

How to Apply for Food License in India 2025

Introduction

In India, from street corner golgappa to five-star buffets, the food business touches the lives of millions on a daily basis. With that kind of diversity and scale, it comes as little wonder that there is a need for regulation to safeguard consumers and enterprises. That is where the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) enters the picture.

Table of Content

The Booming Indian Fast Food Franchise Market

liWhat Is a Food License and Why Is It Required?
Types of FSSAI Licenses in India
Who Needs FSSAI Registration
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
Documents Required for FSSAI Registration
How to Apply for FSSAI Registration Online (Step-by-Step Guide)
Common Errors to Avoid
FAQs
Conclusion

How to Apply for Food License in India: Complete Guide for 2025

An FSSAI food license is not merely documentation - it is a seal of integrity. It is a statement that your food is safe, your operation is clean and your company is reliable. Here in this 2025 guide, we will discuss everything you should know about obtaining an FSSAI license - its necessity, types, documents, procedure and errors.

What Is a Food License and Why Is It Required?

Food license is a formal permission given to you to run a food business lawfully in India. According to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, no one is allowed to produce, sell, store or distribute food unless registered. Why it is importan.

For customers - It ensures hygiene and safety.
For companies - It minimizes the risk of fines and legal issues.
For the consumer - It provides a fair platform where only authorized products are being sold.

Types of FSSAI Licenses in India

Every food business has different needs. Based on the business size and type, you need to obtain one of the available licenses. FSSAI issues three distinct types of licences.

Basic Registration:For small businesses or start-ups with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
State FSSAI License: For medium-sized units with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore, operating within a single state.
Central FSSAI License: For large businesses, importers, exporters, or those with turnover above ₹20 crore, often engaged in operations across multiple states.

Who Needs FSSAI Registration

The coverage is extensive. Anyone handling food - direct or indirect - has to register.

Food Business Operators (FBOs) – Shops like cafes, hotels, caterers, food stalls.
Petty Food Businesses – Includes street vendors, hawkers, and small home-based operators.
Manufacturers and Processors – Units from biscuit factories to pickle vendors.
Storage and Warehousing – Locations like a cold storage facility, a container truck transporting food.
Distributors and Retailers – Local shops like a kirana store, a supermarket, an online grocery shop.
Importers and Exporters – All types of exporting or importing of packaged or processed foods.
Online Food Delivery Platforms – Trendy on Zomato or Swiggy.

Benefits of FSSAI Registration

Getting registered with FSSAI is more than a legal formality. Registration is not a penalty - it opens gates to expansion. It provides lasting business advantages.

Legal Compliance

Being legal is being worry-free. A valid licence help avoid penalties, legal troubles and shutdown risks. It gives smooth access to banking and insurance services as well.

Consumer Confidence

Customers prefer certified outlets because they trust the safety of the food served. The FSSAI logo works as a seal of authenticity. An FSSAI logo is a visible assurance which earns repeat customers.

Enhanced Brand Image

Certified companies get recognised sooner. Investors and lenders view them as dependable. A licence helps create credibility in a crowded marketplace. For franchises like Instabite – affordable food franchise, it ensures every outlet maintains consistent quality.

Access to Government Support

From subsidies to export promotion schemes, most of the advantages lie only with licensed companies. Consider FSSAI registration as an investment in your business, not an expense.

Simplified Supply Chain

Most of the distributors, corporate buyers and online marketplaces require a license. Without it, opportunities decrease.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

Before applying, gather all the necessary paperwork. The exact list may vary based on the licence type. So it is important to double-check requirements at the time of application. In general, have below ready.

Aadhaar, Voter ID or PAN (for identification).
Proof of address of premises.
Passport photographs.
Food Safety Management Plan (basic hygiene checklist).
List of food items dealt in.
Incorporation certificate or partnership deed (in case of companies).
NOC from Municipality/Panchayat.
Import Export Code (for importers/exporters).

How to Apply for FSSAI Registration Online (Step-by-Step Guide)

It is a complete digital process through FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. Here is a step-by-step guide to apply online in 2025

Visit the Official Portal – Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/
Register Your Account – Sign up using your phone number and email.
Select the Right License – Choose the correct license type.
Fill the Application Form – Fill Form A (simple) or Form B (state/central). Provide information such as business type, address, product category.
Upload Documents – Upload scanned copies of identity proof, business plan, FSMS, and NOC etc.
Pay Fees Online – The portal accepts payments through net banking, UPI, or cards. Pay online fees based on license category.
Track Status – After submission, monitor application progress through your account dashboard.
Inspection (If Required) – Authorities check details; inspection may be conducted.
Receive License – On approval, get a 14-digit FSSAI number.

Download the digital certificate. Print and exhibit it at your premises and on packages. Validity - 1–5 years.

Common Errors to Avoid

Many applications get delayed or rejected due to minor oversights. Most companies waste time and money because of preventable mistakes.

Choosing the wrong license type
Submitting incorrect or mismatched documents
Forgetting to sign or stamp the application
Missing inspection appointments
Using expired supporting documents

FAQ's of Difference Between Restaurant and Cafe

Can a license be modified? What is the fee for such modification?

Yes, modifications can be requested if business details change. Fees depend on the licence category.

When can an FSSAI Designated Officer (DO) suspend the license?

If the operator fails to follow safety norms or violates conditions, the DO can suspend or cancel the licence.

Can I apply for a food license without a shop or office?

Yes. Even home kitchens or cloud kitchens can apply, provided they have proper address proof.

How long does it take to get a food license?

Processing may take 30-to-60 days based on licence type.

Can I sell food without an FSSAI license?

No. Selling without registration is illegal and may attract penalties or closure notices.

Conclusion

The FSSAI license makes customers trust your quality. Investors take you seriously. And the Authorities consider you are responsible.

Regardless of whether you are a home-based tiffin service, small cafe or large packaged foods company, registration is not an option in 2025 - rather, it is a precursor to growth.