Food Safety and Standards Authority of India – Overview
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, established the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) as an independent food licensing and regulatory body under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
FSSAI was founded in August 2011 to regulate and supervise food safety and to protect public health.
One of the mandatory requirements to start a food business in India is obtaining an FSSAI License, also known as a Food License, through the FSSAI registration process.
FSSAI registration is compulsory for all individuals and entities involved in the food sector, including food production, processing, packaging, distribution, and sales.
Upon registration, FSSAI issues a 14-digit unique registration number which must be printed on all food packages and displayed at food business premises.
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Customer Trust | Ensures food safety and protects consumers from adulterated food |
| Government Recognition | Recognized by the Government of India, authenticating the business |
| Business Expansion | Provides flexibility and opportunities for business growth |
| FSSAI Logo | Enhances consumer confidence and product reliability |
| Legal Benefits | Strengthens legal protection and enforcement capabilities |
| Brand Value | Significantly improves brand reputation and value |
Every Food Business Operator (FBO) involved in the production, handling, distribution, and sale of food products must obtain an FSSAI Registration or License.
The 14-digit registration number contains details of the producer’s permit and the state of registration, ensuring accountability for food quality.
Each of the above businesses requires a specific type of FSSAI License based on eligibility criteria.
The type of FSSAI License depends on the business turnover and production capacity.