Getting your FSSAI license right the first time saves you time, money, and legal headaches.

Starting a food business in India? Whether you’re opening:
a) Café
b) Cloud kitchen
c) Food truck
d) Packaged food brand

Getting your FSSAI license is not just a legal formality — it’s the backbone of your credibility.

✅ Before you apply, here’s a quick checklist every food entrepreneur must follow:

1. Identify the Correct Type of License

• Basic Registration – For businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakh.

• State License – For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore (within one state).

• Central License – For businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore or operating in multiple states.

👉 Applying for the wrong license can delay approvals by weeks.

2. Finalize Your Business Entity

Make sure your business is registered (as Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, or Private Limited Company) before you apply.

⚠️ FSSAI won’t approve your license if your business entity isn’t valid.

3. Get Your Premises Ready

• Maintain clean kitchens and storage areas

• Ensure pest control and hygiene standards are in place

• Install food-grade equipment

🔍 FSSAI officers may conduct inspections, so your setup must meet safety norms.

4. Prepare Mandatory Documents

• Identity & address proof of owner

• Business registration proof

• Food product details

• NOC from local municipality (if required)

❌ Incomplete documents are the #1 reason for application rejection.

5. Understand Labelling & Packaging Rules

If you’re selling packaged food, ensure:

• Labels have nutritional info, ingredients, and FSSAI logo

• Packaging meets FSSAI standards

🚫 Non-compliance can lead to fines or product bans later.

6. Register All Locations & Categories

If you operate multiple outlets, cloud kitchens, or warehouses, each location must be declared in your license application.

📌 Missing a location can attract penalties during audits.

7. Plan for Renewals & Annual Returns

• FSSAI licenses need renewal before expiry

• Large-scale manufacturers must file annual returns

⚠️ Late renewals can attract heavy fines.