Introduction: Rise of Packaged Food in India
India’s food consumption patterns have evolved rapidly over the past decade. Urbanization, busy work schedules, and changing lifestyles have significantly reduced the time available for traditional home cooking. As a result, packaged and ready-to-eat food products have become a regular part of daily consumption, especially in urban and semi-urban areas. Reports suggest that nearly 79% of the urban population consumes packaged food regularly. Rural markets are also witnessing strong growth due to improved infrastructure, rising incomes, and better retail access.
With this growth, regulatory compliance has become essential. FSSAI compliance for packaged food businesses in India is not optional—it is a legal requirement that ensures food safety, quality, and consumer protection.
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Role of FSSAI in Regulating Food Businesses
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) operates under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It regulates food safety standards across the country and monitors every stage of the food supply chain—manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, and sale.
Any Food Business Operator (FBO) must obtain FSSAI registration or licence before starting operations. Selling packaged food without FSSAI approval is illegal and can lead to heavy penalties.
FSSAI Registration and Licensing Categories
FSSAI approvals are divided into three categories based on turnover and operational scale:
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
Applicable to small food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh. This includes petty manufacturers, home-based food sellers, hawkers, and small retailers.
2. FSSAI State Licence
Required for medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore. This category covers restaurants, packaged food manufacturers, wholesalers, and storage units operating within a single state.
3. FSSAI Central Licence
Mandatory for businesses with turnover exceeding ₹20 crore, importers, exporters, multi-state operators, and large manufacturers. Certain production capacity thresholds also trigger Central Licence requirements.
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Once approved, FSSAI issues a 14-digit licence number, which must be printed on every food package.
Step-by-Step FSSAI Registration Process (FoSCoS Portal)
Registration and licensing are processed through the official FoSCoS portal:
Create an account using a valid mobile number and email ID.
Select “Apply for New Licence/Registration.”
Choose the correct licence category.
Enter business and product details accurately.
Upload required documents.
Pay the government fee and submit the application.
Facilitate inspection if required.
Download the certificate upon approval.
Packaging and Labelling Compliance
Packaging compliance is critical in the packaged food industry. FSSAI mandates detailed labelling requirements to ensure transparency and traceability.
Every packaged product must display:
Product name
Complete ingredient list (descending order by weight)
Nutritional information
Veg/Non-veg symbol
Net quantity
Manufacturing and expiry/best before date
Batch/Lot number
Manufacturer/Marketer details
FSSAI logo and 14-digit licence number
Allergen declaration
Country of origin (for imported food)
Packaging material must be food-grade, safe, and non-toxic. Misleading or incomplete labelling may lead to penalties, product recalls, or licence suspension.
Documents Required for FSSAI Licence
Common documents include:
PAN and Aadhaar/ID proof
Passport-size photographs
Proof of business address
Business registration certificate
List of food products
Food Safety Management Plan
Bank details
Layout plan (for manufacturers)
Other Legal Compliances for Packaged Food Businesses
GST Compliance
Eligible businesses must register under GST, issue tax invoices, and file regular returns.
Legal Metrology Compliance
Packaged goods must follow Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules regarding weight, measurement, and declarations.
Environmental & EPR Compliance
Businesses using plastic or multilayer packaging must comply with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines for waste management.
Import-Export Regulations
Importers and exporters require IEC registration and must comply with customs and FSSAI import clearance norms.
Conclusion
India’s packaged food industry presents significant growth opportunities, but regulatory compliance forms the backbone of sustainable operations. From selecting the appropriate FSSAI licence to ensuring packaging and labelling accuracy, every step plays a critical role in protecting consumers and maintaining brand credibility. Book a Consultation! - +919999139391
FSSAI compliance is not just a statutory obligation—it is a business advantage. A legally compliant packaged food business builds consumer trust, attracts investors, and ensures long-term success in India’s competitive food market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is FSSAI compliance?
FSSAI compliance means adhering to food safety regulations prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
2. Is FSSAI mandatory for packaged food sellers?
Yes. Selling packaged food without FSSAI registration or licence is illegal in India.
3. Which licence is required for packaged food manufacturers?
Most manufacturers require a State or Central FSSAI Licence depending on turnover and production capacity.
4. What is the validity of an FSSAI licence?
An FSSAI licence is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the chosen tenure.
5. What happens if FSSAI licence is not renewed?
Late renewal attracts a penalty of ₹100 per day and may lead to licence cancellation.
6. Is FSSAI registration different from licence?
Yes. Registration is for small businesses, while licence applies to medium and large operators.
7. Do online food sellers require FSSAI?
Yes. E-commerce food sellers must have a valid FSSAI licence.
8. What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Penalties may range from ₹25,000 to ₹10 lakh, including product seizure or licence suspension.
9. Is GST registration required for packaged food businesses?
Yes, if turnover exceeds the prescribed GST threshold.
10. Can a packaged food business operate in multiple states with a State Licence?
No. Businesses operating in multiple states must obtain a Central FSSAI Licence.
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Address:- G 10, Sector 63, Noida, India, 201301,
Email:- reach@corpzo.com,
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