The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a regulatory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It is responsible for safeguarding public health by regulating and supervising food safety across India. Any food business operator (FBO) involved in the manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI license. Additionally, specific licenses like the Eating House License are necessary for establishments serving food and beverages, ensuring compliance with local safety and hygiene standards.

​

FSSAI Licenses and Related Services

​

1. FSSAI License

​

• Mandatory for all food-related businesses in India.

• Ensures the safety and quality of food products.

• Valid for 1 to 5 years depending on the license type.

• Categories include Basic, State, and Central licenses based on business scale.

​

2. FSSAI License Renewal

• Required before the expiration of the current FSSAI license.

• Prevents penalties and legal issues.

• Simplifies continuity of business operations.

• Must be applied for at least 30 days before the license expires.

​

3. FSSAI State License

• For medium-sized food businesses operating within a single state.

• Applicable if annual turnover is between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.

• Covers manufacturers, storage units, transporters, retailers, marketers, etc.

• Validity ranges from 1 to 5 years, renewable.

​

4. Eating House License

• Required for restaurants, cafes, and any place serving food and beverages.

• Ensures compliance with safety and hygiene standards.

• Issued by the local police commissioner.

• Necessary for fire safety, environmental clearance, and waste management.

​

5. Central FSSAI License

• For large-scale food businesses with operations in multiple states or large units.

• Mandatory if annual turnover exceeds ₹20 crore.

• Also required for importers, exporters, and major manufacturers.

• Provides credibility and ensures compliance with central food safety laws.

​

6. FSSAI Annual Return

• Mandatory for food businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or exporting.

• Must be filed annually by May 31st for the preceding financial year.

• Includes details of manufactured or handled products.

• Non-compliance can lead to penalties and suspension of the FSSAI license.

​

7. FSSAI Product Approval

• Necessary for introducing new or novel food products in the market.

• Ensures products meet safety standards and are fit for consumption.

• Required for functional foods, nutraceuticals, and other non-standardized products.

• Involves rigorous testing and documentation.

​

8. Food Recycling License

• Encourages the recycling and repurposing of food waste.

• Mandatory for businesses involved in food waste recycling or disposal.

• Ensures environmental safety and compliance with waste management laws.

• Helps in promoting sustainable practices within the food industry.

​

9. FPO Mark Certification

• Stands for "Fruit Products Order" certification.

• Mandatory for manufacturers of fruit-based products like juices, jams, and squashes.

• Ensures the quality, purity, and hygiene of fruit products.

• Issued by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India.