Every food business, whether big or small, is required to have at least an FSSAI food safety certificate in India. A food safety certificate is not just a license; it has value in and of itself. It establishes your credibility, grants you access to markets, and protects you from sanctions.
In this article, you will learn how you, too, can get your food safety certification in India as we will lay out step-by-step suggestions for doing so and expert advice to make your application process as easy as possible.
What Is Food Safety Certification and Why Is It Important for Food Businesses
A food safety certificate is a legal permission from the FSSAI, which denotes that your food business is following hygiene, safety, and quality standards. This certificate is needed to manufacture, pack, store, or sell your food. Further, it provides your customers with confidence and a sense of assurance that engage in your business. It expands the options for you in the marketplace. This certificate is your legal safeguard so that your business is insulated from legal penalties. Retailers, online marketplaces, and customers ask for certification before they will do business with you.
Essentially, in India, a food safety certificate is your legal self-defense. This is your assurance to provide safe and trustworthy and safe food.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Food Safety Certificate in India
To obtain a food safety license in India, follow these steps:
Step 1. Decide which type of license to obtain:
- FSSAI Registration – Microperson with turnover is less than ₹12 lakh.
- State License – Small/midsize businesses or units with a turnover is ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore.
- Central License – Large food business, importing or exporting food.
Step 2. Procurement of documents you will need:
- Proof of registration – GST/Udyam proof,
- Proof of address, and identity proof of the owner for food business,
- Menu or products you are manufacturing or processing, etc.
- Layout plan of food premises,
- Plan for a food safety management system.
Step 3. Complete the online application
- Go to the FoSCoS portal, and select either Form A or Form B. Upload the documents and pay the fee to complete the online application. You may be scheduled for an inspection of the facility.
Step 4. Send in or pick up the Certificate
- Once approved, you will be legally allowed a food safety certificate for 1-5 years, and you are now free to sell all legally and safely.
Cost and Validity of Food Safety Certificate in India
| Type | Annual Cost | Validity | Suitable For |
| Registration | ₹100–₹500 | 1–5 years | Small/local units |
| State License | ₹2,000–₹5,000 | 1–5 years | Medium businesses |
| Central License | ₹7,500 | 1–5 years | Large/export units |
How to Avoid Mistakes While Getting Your Food Safety Certificate
- If you submit inaccurate or incomplete documents, you may have to wait longer to receive your approval if you are missing ID proofs, registration of business documentation, product listing, and or facility layout.
- Choosing the wrong class of license could lead to a denial of license or legal issues, depending on which FSSAI registration you signed up for, State or Central, if there is any.
- If you were not prepared for the inspection, or your premises were unclean, or you were not fully complying with the hygiene laws, your inspection may not pass.
- If you renew late, your credentials will expire, and if you operate with expired credentials, you could incur fines or lose access to some markets.
If you chose not to consult an expert, compliance consultant to ensure that all the time you put into thinking your documentation was complete, the class of license was appropriate and you are a facility that is complying with all legislation suggested or developed from FSSAI legislation, then think of how any process you may or may not engage would not even have clarity or would lead to anything if you do not have clarity.
Conclusion
Receiving your food safety certificate in India will help you build links to develop consumer trust, grow your market, and build brand loyalty. We help simplify this process, whether you’re a small manufacturer or a growing food business- we help you select the proper licenses, safeguarding your business gets approval, spreads efficiently and quickly. We start with free consultations, which are not included in the cost of food safety certificates; we are known for our accurate and efficient applications, and our quality assurance and transparent cost estimations are around the estimated cost. First, our services always begin with a free consultation where we explain all the information and membership/license options available to you.
FAQ
Q1: What is a food safety certificate?
Ans: A food safety certificate is an official document issued by the FSSAI certifying that your food business meets food safety and hygiene regulatory requirements.
Q2: How do I obtain a food safety certificate in India?
Ans: You will submit an online application using the FoSCoS portal, upload all your necessary documents, and wait for inspection approval to get your food safety certificate.
Q3: Why is food safety certification important?
Ans: Food safety certification increases trust with your customers, demonstrates you are legally compliant, and also allows for retail sales and online food sales.
