Why your food business needs an fssai license (mandatory in indi (New Delhi)

Why your food business needs an fssai license (mandatory in indi

What is FSSAI? If you re into the food business in India, FSSAI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the rulebook. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a government body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Its job? To make sure what we eat is safe and meets hygiene standards. Think of it as the food cop of India, setting the ground rules for everything from street food to fancy restaurant menus. FSSAI s reach covers every kind of food-related business—restaurants, food stalls, packaged snack companies, dairy suppliers, meat processors, and even cloud kitchens. Whether you re selling pani puri on the street or exporting premium organic spices, if your business handles food, FSSAI has you on its radar. This isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about responsibility. When you have an FSSAI license, you re promising your customers clean, safe, and good-quality food. In an age where people are more conscious than ever about what they put into their bodies, that s a promise that goes a long way. History and Role of FSSAI in India FSSAI was born in 2006 under the Food Safety and Standards Act, but it really picked up steam in the last decade, especially as India’s food industry exploded. The food scene diversified—vegan cafes, organic food brands, health-focused startups—and FSSAI became the torchbearer ensuring that this explosion didn’t come at the cost of public health. It merged a whole bunch of older laws (remember the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act?) into one strong, centralized system. That means fewer loopholes, more accountability. From setting standards for food additives to issuing alerts on contaminated products, the authority covers all bases. It’s also responsible for training food safety officers, inspecting facilities, and spreading awareness about food safety. In short, FSSAI makes sure that what reaches your plate isn’t just tasty—it’s trustworthy. Understanding the FSSAI License Types of FSSAI Licenses Depending on your business size, turnover, and location, there are three main types of licenses you can get: Basic Registration Perfect for small businesses and startups—think home bakers, local snack sellers, or vendors earning less than ₹12 lakhs annually. This is an entry-level license but still essential. Just because you re starting small doesn’t mean the rules don’t apply. State License If your annual turnover is between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores, or if you operate in just one state, this one’s for you. Mid-sized restaurants, regional food manufacturers, or catering services usually fall into this category. Central License Handling a turnover of over ₹20 crores or operating in multiple states? Then you’ll need a Central FSSAI license. This one is a bit more detailed in paperwork and scrutiny, especially if you’re into exports or run franchises across cities. Who Needs an FSSAI License? Let’s clear this up—if your