Every food business in India must follow FSSAI Registration rules. Whether you own a small home kitchen, a large factory, or an online food brand, these rules are important. Following them protects your customers, avoids legal troubles, and builds trust.
This article explains the key FSSAI rules every food business owner should know. The language is kept simple so everyone can understand it, whether you are new to the business or already running one.
What is FSSAI?
FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a part of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. FSSAI makes sure that all food sold in India is safe to eat. Every food business in India must register with FSSAI or get a license. The type of license depends on the size and type of business.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration or License?
Here are some examples of food businesses that must follow FSSAI rules:
- Street food vendors
- Restaurants and cafes
- Grocery stores
- Food transporters
- Food warehouses
- Home-based food sellers
- Catering services
- Online food businesses
- Food importers and exporters
- Food processors and manufacturers
Even if you sell food items from your home through WhatsApp or Instagram, you need to register with FSSAI.
FSSAI Registration and License Types
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
- For very small businesses
- Annual turnover less than Rs. 12 lakhs
- Includes small food vendors, home kitchens, tea stalls
2. State License
- For medium-sized businesses
- Turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores
- Includes medium-sized restaurants, food distributors, or manufacturers
3. Central License
- For large businesses
- Turnover of Rs. 20 crores or involved in import/export
- Includes large food factories, chains, and exporters
Key FSSAI Rules Every Food Business Must Follow
1. Mandatory Registration or License
Every food business operator (FBO) must get an FSSAI registration or license before starting operations. This is a legal requirement.
Failing to register can lead to heavy fines or a business shutdown.
2. Display FSSAI Number
Once you get your registration or license, you will receive a 14-digit FSSAI number.
- This number must be displayed at your shop, restaurant, or place of business.
- If you sell packaged food, the number must be printed on the label.
- Online food sellers must show the FSSAI number on their websites and apps.
This helps customers trust your brand.
3. Maintain Food Hygiene and Safety
You must follow basic hygiene and safety rules such as:
- Use clean water and utensils
- Keep the kitchen or factory clean
- Store raw and cooked food separately
- Maintain cold storage for perishable items
- Avoid expired ingredients
- Train food handlers in hygiene
FSSAI conducts inspections to check these conditions.
4. Renew Your License on Time
FSSAI licenses and registrations are valid for 1 to 5 years. You must renew them before they expire.
Renew your license at least 30 days before the expiry date. Delays in renewal may lead to penalties.
5. Labeling Rules for Packaged Food
If you sell packaged food, you must follow FSSAI labeling rules:
- Product name
- Ingredient list
- Nutritional information
- Manufacturer name and address
- Net quantity
- Batch number and manufacturing date
- Expiry or best before date
- FSSAI license number
- Allergen warning (if any)
- Vegetarian or non-vegetarian mark
Improper labeling can lead to product recall or legal action.
6. Use Only Approved Food Additives
You cannot use any harmful chemicals, colors, or preservatives. Only FSSAI-approved food additives can be used.
Using banned substances can damage health and result in legal action.
7. Conduct Food Testing (If Required)
Large-scale food manufacturers may need to test their food in FSSAI-approved labs to ensure safety and quality. Tests may include checking for:
- Harmful bacteria
- Contaminants
- Toxins
- Nutritional value
FSSAI may also collect samples for testing during inspections.
8. Maintain Records and Documentation
You must keep proper records of:
- Ingredients and suppliers
- Production and sales
- Storage and transport
- Pest control and cleaning
FSSAI may check your records during an audit.
9. Report Any Unsafe Food
If you find that your food product is unsafe or causes illness, you must report it to FSSAI immediately.
You may need to recall the product from the market to prevent harm to customers.
10. Do Not Mislead Customers
You must not make false claims about your product, such as:
- Saying it's sugar-free when it's not
- Claiming it treats or cures diseases
- Calling it “natural” or “organic” without certification
FSSAI checks for such violations through market surveillance.
Penalties for Not Following FSSAI Rules
Not following FSSAI rules can result in serious penalties, such as:
- Fines ranging from Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh
- Business suspension or closure
- Cancellation of FSSAI license
- Product recall from the market
- Jail time in extreme cases
Benefits of Following FSSAI Rules
- Customer Trust: Builds your brand reputation
- Legal Safety: Avoids penalties and shutdowns
- Market Expansion: Required for selling on large platforms or exporting
- Better Quality: Helps maintain consistent food quality and hygiene
- Business Growth: Makes it easier to get loans and investor trust
Note: Complete your renewal food license in a few simple steps
Conclusion
FSSAI rules are not just about paperwork. They are designed to protect the health of customers and ensure that food businesses maintain safety and quality standards. Whether you are a small home-based seller or a large food factory, following FSSAI rules is essential.
Start by registering your business, maintaining hygiene, labeling your products correctly, and staying updated with changes in food safety laws. If needed, take help from online services or consultants to ensure compliance.
By following the FSSAI rules carefully, you will not only grow your business legally but also win the trust of customers in the long run.