The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It is responsible for regulating and supervising the safety and standards of food products across India. FSSAI registration or food license is mandatory for all food businesses operating in India, including manufacturers, processors, packers, distributors, exporters, importers, and retailers. Here's all you need to know about FSSAI food license:

1. **Objective**: The primary objective of FSSAI is to ensure the safety, hygiene, and quality of food products to protect public health and promote consumer welfare. It sets standards for food products, regulates their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import/export, and promotes awareness about food safety and hygiene practices.

2. **Types of FSSAI License**:
   - **Basic FSSAI Registration**: For small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh. It is suitable for businesses such as street food vendors, hawkers, small-scale manufacturers, etc.
   - **State FSSAI License**: For medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore. It is applicable to businesses operating within a single state.
   - **Central FSSAI License**: For large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crore. It is applicable to businesses operating in multiple states or involved in import/export activities.

3. **Eligibility Criteria**: All food businesses, including manufacturers, processors, distributors, retailers, etc., are required to obtain FSSAI registration or license, depending on the scale of their operations and turnover.

4. **Benefits of FSSAI License**:
   - Legal compliance: FSSAI registration/license is mandatory for operating a food business legally in India.
   - Consumer confidence: FSSAI logo on food products enhances consumer trust and confidence in the safety and quality of the products.
   - Business opportunities: FSSAI registration/license is often a prerequisite for participating in government tenders, contracts, and export/import activities.
   - Quality assurance: FSSAI standards ensure the safety, hygiene, and quality of food products, leading to better health outcomes for consumers.
   - Avoidance of penalties: Non-compliance with FSSAI regulations can result in penalties, fines, and even closure of the business.

5. **Application Process**: The process of obtaining FSSAI registration/license involves the following steps:
   - Determine the type of FSSAI license required based on the scale of operations and turnover.
   - Fill out the FSSAI application form online or offline and submit the required documents, such as identity proof, address proof, food safety management plan, etc.
   - Pay the applicable fees for FSSAI registration/license based on the category and duration of the license.
   - Upon submission of the application and documents, the designated authority will verify the information provided and issue the FSSAI registration/license.

6. **Validity and Renewal**: The validity of FSSAI registration/license varies depending on the type and duration of the license. Basic FSSAI registration is typically valid for one to five years, while State and Central FSSAI licenses are valid for one to five years. It is essential to renew the FSSAI license before the expiry date to avoid penalties and ensure continued compliance with regulations.

7. **Compliance Requirements**: FSSAI-registered businesses must comply with various regulations, including maintaining food safety and hygiene standards, adhering to labeling and packaging requirements, conducting regular inspections and audits, and keeping accurate records of food production and distribution.

FSSAI registration/license is a critical requirement for ensuring the safety, hygiene, and quality of food products in India. By obtaining FSSAI registration/license, food businesses can demonstrate their commitment to food safety and compliance with regulatory standards, thereby building consumer trust and confidence in their products.

FSSAI [Food License] Fees