Food License Registration for Restaurant | FSSAI License Made Easy | Sonasis business solution

What is FSSAI and Why is it Important for Restaurants?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a government body under
the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It is responsible for regulating
and supervising food safety in India. For any food business operator (FBO),
whether small or large, securing an FSSAI license is mandatory.

Restaurants fall under the category of FBOs since they directly deal with the preparation,
storage, and sale of food to customers. Obtaining an FSSAI license ensures that
the restaurant complies with food safety standards, thereby building consumer
trust.

Benefits of an FSSAI License for Restaurants:

1. Legal Protection – Protects you from penalties and
   shutdowns for operating without proper authorization.
2. Consumer Trust – Customers are more likely to
   trust and dine at a restaurant certified by FSSAI.
3. Expansion Opportunities – Easier to expand your business,
   open branches, or collaborate with aggregators like Zomato, Swiggy, etc.
4. Quality Assurance – Demonstrates commitment to
   hygiene and safety.
5. Brand Reputation – Builds credibility and enhances
   your brand image.

Types of FSSAI Licenses for Restaurants

Depending on the size, turnover, and nature of the restaurant business, FSSAI issues three
types of licenses:

1. FSSAI Basic Registration:
• For small food businesses with an
  annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
• Ideal for small cafes, cloud
  kitchens, or startups.
2. FSSAI State License:
• For medium-sized restaurants with
  an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
• Common for single-location
  restaurants and medium-scale eateries.
3. FSSAI Central License:
• For large restaurants,
  franchises, or chains with operations across multiple states.
• Mandatory if the annual turnover
  exceeds ₹20 crore.
• Required for
  import/export-related food businesses as well.

Documents Required for FSSAI License Registration

When applying for an FSSAI license, you will need to submit specific documents depending on
your business scale and license type:

For Basic Registration:

• Photo ID and Address Proof of the
  applicant
• Passport-sized photographs
• Business name and address details
• Nature of food business

For State/Central License:

• Proof of business incorporation
  (Partnership Deed/Company Registration Certificate)
• List of Directors/Partners
• Food safety management plan
• Proof of premises (rental
  agreement/ownership papers)
• No Objection Certificate (NOC)
  from the municipality
• Water quality report
• Import/export code (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Process of Food License Registration for
Restaurants.

The process of obtaining an FSSAI license has been simplified with online registration. Here’s
how it works:

1. Determine the License Type:
• Assess your restaurant’s
  turnover, scale, and operations to know whether you need a Basic, State,
  or Central License.
2. Prepare the Required Documents:
• Keep scanned copies of all
  necessary documents ready.
3. Apply Online via the FoSCoS
   Portal:
• Create an account and log in.
• Fill out the application form
  (Form A for Basic, Form B for State/Central).
4. Upload Documents & Pay Fees:
• Upload the required documents and
  pay the license fees online.
5. Inspection by FSSAI Officials:
• For State and Central licenses,
  officials may conduct an inspection of your premises to ensure compliance
  with hygiene standards.
6. Approval & License Issuance:
• Once approved, you will receive
  your FSSAI license, which must be displayed prominently in your restaurant.

How Long Does it Take to Get an FSSAI License?

• Basic Registration: 7 – 10 days
• State License: 30 – 45 days (including
  inspection)
• Central License: 45 – 60 days

It is advisable to apply well in advance before launching your restaurant to avoid unnecessary
delays.

FSSAI License Fees for Restaurants

The cost of obtaining an FSSAI license depends on the type:

• Basic Registration: ₹100 per year
• State License: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per year (varies
  by state and category)
• Central License: ₹7,500 per year

FSSAI License Renewal for Restaurants

An FSSAI license is valid for 1 to 5 years depending on the tenure chosen at the
time of registration. Renewal must be done before expiry. Failing to renew on
time can attract penalties or suspension of the license.

Steps for renewal:

1. Log in to the FoSCoS portal
2. Select ‘Renewal of
   License/Registration’
3. Submit updated documents (if
   required)
4. Pay the renewal fee

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Food License Registration.

1. Incorrect Category Selection: Choosing the wrong license type
   may lead to rejection.
2. Incomplete Documentation: Missing documents can delay
   approval.
3. Ignoring Renewals: Many restaurants overlook timely
   renewal.
4. Not Displaying License: The FSSAI license should be
   visible in the restaurant.
5. Non-compliance with Standards: Failure to maintain hygiene and
   safety may result in suspension.

FSSAI License for Online Food Delivery & Cloud Kitchens

With the rise of online food delivery and cloud kitchens, FSSAI has extended its regulations.
Even if you don’t have a dine-in restaurant, you still need an FSSAI license to
operate on platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Uber Eats, and Dunzo.
Delivery-only kitchens are treated the same as regular restaurants under the
law.

How FSSAI License Builds Customer Confidence

In today’s competitive restaurant industry, customers are more health-conscious than ever.
Displaying an FSSAI license instills confidence in diners that the food being
served is safe, hygienic, and meets government standards. A licensed restaurant
is perceived as more reliable, trustworthy, and professional compared to an
unlicensed one.

Professional Assistance for FSSAI Registration

While the process has been simplified online, many restaurant owners seek professional help
to avoid errors and speed up approval. Legal consultants and agencies
specializing in FSSAI registration can:

• Assess your license requirements
• Prepare and verify documents
• Handle application filing
• Coordinate with authorities
• Ensure timely renewal